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This analysis uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, which can materially differ from Statistical Areas (SA2) even when sharing the same name.
SAL boundaries are defined by Australia Post and the Australian Bureau of Statistics to represent commonly-known suburb names used in postal addresses.
Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census data collection and may combine multiple suburbs or use different geographic boundaries. For comprehensive analysis, consider reviewing both boundary types if available.
est. as @ -- *
2021 Census | -- people
Sales Activity
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Population
Delacombe lies within the top quartile of areas nationally for population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of recent, and medium to long-term trends
As of Feb 2026, the population of Delacombe is estimated at around 5,382, reflecting a decrease of 26 people since the 2021 Census which reported a population of 5,408. This estimation is inferred from AreaSearch's validation of new addresses and examination of ERP data released by the ABS in June 2024, showing a resident population of 5,145. The current density ratio is 1,011 persons per square kilometer. Over the past decade, Delacombe has shown resilient growth with a compound annual growth rate of 7.7%, outpacing its SA3 area. Interstate migration contributed approximately 85.0% of overall population gains during recent periods. AreaSearch's projections for Delacombe are based on ABS/Geoscience Australia data released in 2024, using 2022 as the base year.
For areas not covered by this data, VIC State Government's Regional/LGA projections released in 2023 are used with adjustments made employing a method of weighted aggregation of population growth from LGA to SA2 levels. Growth rates by age group are applied across all areas for years 2032 to 2041. Looking ahead, exceptional growth is predicted over the period, with Delacombe expected to increase by 8,144 persons to 2041 based on aggregated SA2-level projections, reflecting a gain of 182.9% in total over the 17 years.
Frequently Asked Questions - Population
Development
AreaSearch assessment of residential development activity positions Delacombe among the top 25% of areas assessed nationwide
AreaSearch analysis indicates Delacombe averaged around 102 new dwelling approvals annually. Between FY-21 and FY-25, approximately 512 homes were approved, with 9 more in FY-26. Each year, an estimated 5 new residents arrived per dwelling constructed during this period.
This significant demand-to-supply ratio often leads to price growth and increased buyer competition. The average construction value of new dwellings was $392,000, slightly above the regional average, suggesting a focus on quality developments. In FY-26, there have been $20.6 million in commercial approvals, indicating moderate levels of commercial development. Compared to Rest of Vic., Delacombe has 67.0% more building activity per person, offering buyers ample choice, although recent development activity has moderated. This high level of activity is significantly above the national average, reflecting robust developer interest in the area.
New developments consist of 93.0% detached dwellings and 7.0% townhouses or apartments, maintaining Delacombe's suburban identity with a concentration of family homes suited to buyers seeking space. The location has approximately 307 people per dwelling approval, indicating a low density market. According to the latest AreaSearch quarterly estimate, Delacombe is projected to add 9,842 residents by 2041. At current development rates, housing supply may struggle to match population growth, potentially heightening buyer competition and supporting price increases.
Frequently Asked Questions - Development
Infrastructure
Delacombe has strong levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 30% nationally
Changes in local infrastructure significantly impact an area's performance. AreaSearch has identified seven projects that could affect the region. Notable ones are Delacombe Village (Stage 3 - Delacombe Town Centre), Delacombe Village, Delacombe Big Housing Build - Leawarra Neighbourhood, and Winterfield Estate. The following list details those most likely to be relevant.
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INFRASTRUCTURE SEARCH
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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure
Ballarat Base Hospital Redevelopment
The $655 million redevelopment of the Ballarat Base Hospital is in its third and final stage, constructing a new seven-level tower. The project features a new emergency department with a dedicated mental health and alcohol and drugs hub, a women and children hub, and a critical care floor including state-of-the-art operating theatres and an expanded ICU. Additional upgrades include a new helipad, approximately 100 extra inpatient beds, a central energy plant, and expanded parking for 800 vehicles. Structural works on the main tower are currently progressing, including concrete pours for the upper levels and the operation of four on-site tower cranes.
Delacombe Village (Stage 3 - Delacombe Town Centre)
The third stage expansion of the Delacombe Town Centre precinct, known as Delacombe Village, involves the construction of a new retail hub anchored by full-line Coles and Aldi supermarkets. The project includes approximately 15 specialty retail tenancies, a 98-place childcare centre, and extensive on-site parking. Located south of the existing centre, the development is designed to provide essential services to the growing Ballarat West corridor, effectively doubling the precinct's retail footprint to rival the Ballarat CBD.
Delacombe Village
Delacombe Village is the third stage of Delacombe Town Centre, delivering over 7,000 sqm of retail space anchored by Coles and ALDI with 15 specialty tenancies including food and beverage, health and wellness, fashion and other services. The development also includes a 98-place childcare centre. Located on Valiant Road in Ballarat's western growth corridor, the project features grassy areas, outdoor seating, external cafes and shaded eating areas with access from both Valiant Road and Cherry Flat Road.
Winterfield Estate
Winterfield is a masterplanned community located in Winter Valley comprising over 1100 lots plus retail, primary and secondary schools, sports precinct, wetlands and parklands. Construction commenced in 2017, with over 600 lots already titled. Features award-winning landscape design by Fleming's Nurseries, re-invigorated wetlands and creek systems, and is directly opposite the new Delacombe Town Centre. Includes the Winterfield North expansion, a 65ha greenfield development with 483 lots, sports reserve, wetlands, schools, community facilities, leisure center, and mixed-use precinct.
Alfredton Community Hub
A community facility in Alfredton, Ballarat, featuring meeting rooms, activity spaces, children's programs, library services, cafe facilities, and outdoor community gardens. Designed as a central gathering place for residents, enhancing community engagement and local services.
Ballarat Line Upgrade
Upgrade of the Ballarat regional rail line between Deer Park West/Melton and Ballarat completed in early 2021. Works delivered 18 km of duplicated track between Deer Park West and Melton, new Cobblebank Station, upgrades at Bacchus Marsh, Ballan, Rockbank and Wendouree, passing loops at Ballan and Millbrook, new stabling at Maddingley, and signalling and track improvements. The upgrade enabled around 135 extra weekly services across the line with peak services about every 20 minutes and off-peak about every 40 minutes.
Western Highway Upgrade
The Western Highway Upgrade around Ballarat aims to enhance safety, reduce congestion, and boost regional economic growth. Key works include intersection upgrades, additional overtaking lanes, safety barriers, and improved road surfaces along critical sections between Ballarat and Stawell.
Delacombe Big Housing Build - Leawarra Neighbourhood
The Victorian Big Housing Build is delivering 181 modern, energy-efficient social and affordable homes in the Leawarra neighbourhood, Delacombe, Ballarat. Replacing 66 ageing homes, the project includes a mix of one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom dwellings with 7-star NatHERS energy ratings and minimum Silver level Livable Housing Australia certification. At least 5% of homes will be fully accessible for residents with disabilities. Features upgraded streets, open spaces, parks, shared trails, and improved pedestrian/vehicle connectivity. Community consultation completed June 2025; construction expected to commence November 2025, with first 78 homes completed 2027 and the remaining 103 by 2028.
Employment
Employment conditions in Delacombe face significant challenges, ranking among the bottom 10% of areas assessed nationally
Delacombe has a diverse workforce with both white and blue collar jobs, with essential services sectors well-represented. Its unemployment rate was 6.6% in the past year, showing an estimated employment growth of 2.4%. By September 2025, 3,281 residents were employed, with an unemployment rate of 2.8%, above Rest of Vic.'s rate of 3.8%.
Workforce participation was high at 81.4% compared to Rest of Vic.'s 61.4%. Only 11.6% of residents worked from home, though Covid-19 impacts should be considered. Employment is concentrated in health care & social assistance, retail trade, and construction, with retail trade notably high at 1.3 times the regional average. Agriculture, forestry & fishing has limited presence at 1.5%.
The area offers limited local employment opportunities, as indicated by resident population vs working population count. Between September 2024 and September 2025, employment increased by 2.4% while labour force increased by 2.6%, raising the unemployment rate by 0.2 percentage points. In contrast, Rest of Vic. saw employment contract by 0.7%. Jobs and Skills Australia's national employment forecasts from May-25 suggest Delacombe's employment should increase by 6.3% over five years and 13.4% over ten years, based on industry-specific projections applied to the local employment mix.
Frequently Asked Questions - Employment
Income
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 10% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis
The suburb of Delacombe's income level is below the national average according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for financial year 2023. The median income among taxpayers in Delacombe is $42,239 and the average income stands at $48,690. These figures compare to those of Rest of Vic., which are $50,954 (median) and $62,728 (average). Based on Wage Price Index growth of 8.25% since financial year 2023, current estimates for Delacombe would be approximately $45,724 (median) and $52,707 (average) as of September 2025. Census data reveals that household, family and personal incomes in Delacombe all fall between the 19th and 23rd percentiles nationally. Income brackets indicate that the largest segment comprises 32.6% earning $1,500 - 2,999 weekly (1,754 residents), consistent with broader trends across the broader area showing 30.3% in the same category. Housing affordability pressures are severe in Delacombe, with only 84.8% of income remaining, ranking at the 24th percentile.
Frequently Asked Questions - Income
Housing
Delacombe is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than the broader region
In Delacombe, as per the latest Census evaluation, 90.8% of dwellings were houses, with the remaining 9.1% comprising semi-detached homes, apartments, and other dwelling types. This is comparable to Non-Metro Vic., which had 90.1% houses and 9.9% other dwellings. Delacombe's home ownership rate was lower at 34.8%, with mortgaged dwellings at 37.3% and rented ones at 27.9%. The median monthly mortgage repayment in the area was $1,365, below Non-Metro Vic.'s average of $1,430, while the median weekly rent figure was $310, higher than Non-Metro Vic.'s $285. Nationally, Delacombe's mortgage repayments are significantly lower at $1,365 compared to Australia's average of $1,863, and rents are substantially lower at $310 compared to the national figure of $375.
Frequently Asked Questions - Housing
Household Composition
Delacombe has a typical household mix, with a fairly typical median household size
Family households constitute 70.7% of all households, including 25.1% couples with children, 27.3% couples without children, and 16.7% single parent families. Non-family households comprise the remaining 29.3%, with lone person households at 26.3% and group households making up 3.4%. The median household size is 2.4 people, which aligns with the average for the Rest of Vic.
Frequently Asked Questions - Households
Local Schools & Education
Educational outcomes in Delacombe fall within the lower quartile nationally, indicating opportunities for improvement in qualification attainment
The area's university qualification rate is 14.8%, significantly lower than Victoria's average of 33.4%. Bachelor degrees are the most common at 10.7%, followed by graduate diplomas (2.3%) and postgraduate qualifications (1.8%). Vocational credentials are held by 39.3% of residents aged 15 and above, with advanced diplomas at 8.3% and certificates at 31.0%. Educational participation is high, with 28.1% of residents currently enrolled in formal education.
This includes 9.8% in primary education, 8.0% in secondary education, and 3.9% pursuing tertiary education.
Frequently Asked Questions - Education
Schools Detail
Nearby Services & Amenities
Transport
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility
Delacombe has 30 active public transport stops serviced by two routes, offering 551 weekly passenger trips. Residents have good accessibility to these stops, with an average distance of 244 meters to the nearest one. Most residents commute outward from this primarily residential area, with cars being the dominant mode at 96%. On average, there are 1.5 vehicles per dwelling. According to the 2021 Census, only 11.6% of residents work from home, which may reflect COVID-19 conditions. The service frequency averages 78 trips per day across all routes, equating to approximately 18 weekly trips per individual stop.
Service frequency averages 78 trips per day across all routes, equating to approximately 18 weekly trips per individual stop.
Frequently Asked Questions - Transport
Transport Stops Detail
Health
Health performance in Delacombe is well below average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts
Health data indicates significant health challenges in Delacombe. AreaSearch's assessment shows high prevalence of common health conditions across both younger and older age groups. Private health cover is extremely low, at approximately 46% of the total population (around 2,485 people), compared to 50.5% in Rest of Vic., and the national average of 55.7%.
Mental health issues and arthritis are the most common medical conditions, affecting 11.3% and 10.5% of residents respectively. However, 57.6% of residents claim to have no medical ailments, compared to 63.4% in Rest of Vic.. The working-age population faces notable health challenges due to elevated chronic condition rates. Delacombe has 18.0% of residents aged 65 and over (968 people), lower than the 23.9% in Rest of Vic.. Health outcomes among seniors present some challenges, generally aligning with national rankings for the general population.
Frequently Asked Questions - Health
Cultural Diversity
Delacombe is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics
Delacombe's cultural diversity was found to be below average, with 89.8% of its population being citizens born in Australia who speak English only at home. Christianity is the predominant religion in Delacombe, comprising 44.3% of the population. The most notable overrepresentation is Judaism, which makes up 0.1% of Delacombe's population compared to 0.1% across the rest of Victoria.
In terms of ancestry, the top three represented groups are English (32.5%), Australian (31.3%), and Irish (9.0%). There are also notable divergences in the representation of Dutch (1.9% vs regional 1.7%), Scottish (8.6% vs 8.8%), and Welsh (0.6% vs 0.4%) ethnic groups.
Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity
Age
Delacombe's population aligns closely with national norms in age terms
The median age in Delacombe is 37 years, which is lower than Rest of Vic.'s average of 43 and close to the national average of 38. The age profile shows that those aged 25-34 are prominent at 20.1%, while those aged 55-64 are smaller at 9.2%. This concentration of 25-34 year-olds is higher than the national figure of 14.4%. Between 2021 and present, the median age has decreased by 1.9 years from 39 to 37, indicating a shift towards a younger demographic. During this period, the 25-34 age group grew from 14.4% to 20.1%, while the 35-44 cohort increased from 10.8% to 14.0%. Conversely, the 65-74 cohort declined from 11.2% to 9.4%, and the 55-64 group dropped from 10.8% to 9.2%. Population forecasts for 2041 suggest substantial demographic changes in Delacombe. Notably, the 25-34 age group is projected to grow by 223%, reaching 3,495 people from its current figure of 1,081.