Suburb profile · Australian Capital Territory
Downer has an estimated 4,883 residents, up 13.7% since the 2021 Census, with 104 projects tracked in the area around Downer.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Downer is located 4.4 kilometres north-northeast of the Canberra CBD. AreaSearch estimates that the suburb of Downer had around 4,883 residents as of Aug 2026, drawing on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, which are released yearly, and national address file data that is updated each quarter. This represents an increase of 587 people (13.7%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded a population of 4,296 people. The suburb combines above-average population density and growth drivers with a strong educational profile and an above-average median household income. Notable features include a sizeable share of residents aged 15 to 24, a strong base of public administration employment and a pronounced presence of residents aged 35 to 44.
Downer is widely regarded as a peaceful, friendly place to live, and its tree-lined streets and well-kept parks add to a calm setting with a strong sense of community. The suburb has a diverse mix of local shops, cafes and restaurants that serve a range of tastes, and it is home to well-regarded educational institutions.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Downer is located 4.4 kilometres north-northeast of the Canberra CBD. AreaSearch estimates that the suburb of Downer had around 4,883 residents as of Aug 2026, drawing on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, which are released yearly, and national address file data that is updated each quarter. This represents an increase of 587 people (13.7%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded a population of 4,296 people. The suburb combines above-average population density and growth drivers with a strong educational profile and an above-average median household income. Notable features include a sizeable share of residents aged 15 to 24, a strong base of public administration employment and a pronounced presence of residents aged 35 to 44.
Downer is widely regarded as a peaceful, friendly place to live, and its tree-lined streets and well-kept parks add to a calm setting with a strong sense of community. The suburb has a diverse mix of local shops, cafes and restaurants that serve a range of tastes, and it is home to well-regarded educational institutions.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 3,477 in 2006 and 4,556 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 4,883 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 25 to 34, 17.9%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 31.1%.
Downer ranks in the 98th percentile nationally for education and the 88th for income.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 5 tracked applications: 1 approved, 2 under assessment, 2 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 104 projects in and around Downer, 32 of them under construction.
Revitalisation of the Dickson Shops precinct to create a safer and more accessible community hub. The upgrade includes replacing 4,400 square metres of paving using new and recycled bricks, installing 1.2 kilometres of new stormwater infrastructure, and adding 27 new seats and 50 bike racks.
ACT Government subdivision and future land release project for Block 2 Section 76 Watson. The proposal creates medium density residential development sites with an indicative yield of about 200 dwellings, urban open space blocks, a local park and playground, cul-de-sac road access, servicing, landscaping, tree works and related infrastructure.
A revitalisation of the Watson local centre focused on new retail spaces, cafes, and approximately 45 apartments. The project includes significant public realm improvements, pedestrian links around Windeyer Street and Watson Place, and upgrades to parking and accessibility.
The redevelopment of the Yowani Country Club into the Newlyne precinct, a significant mixed-use community in Canberra's inner north. The project includes multiple residential stages such as 'Yowani Grounds' (169 dwellings across towers and townhouses), 'Sense of Yowani' (retirement living), and the 'Mattone' and 'Moire' apartment complexes.
A five-storey commercial office building featuring a ground floor restaurant, community facility, and multipurpose space. The project includes a rooftop outdoor terrace and a two-level basement providing 87 car spaces. Designed by FMB Architects, the building serves as a core commercial hub within the larger Newlyne masterplanned precinct.
A 3.7-hectare medium density residential development in north Watson, marketed as Watson on Aspinall, with planning approval for 200 dwellings including townhouses, apartments and standalone houses (RZ4 zoning, 2-4 storeys).
Major redevelopment of Yowani Country Club including a new two-storey contemporary clubhouse and a fully redesigned 18-hole golf course. The clubhouse relocates to the western side of Sullivan's Creek as part of the broader Newlyne precinct development with partner TP Dynamics.
A boutique mixed-use development by JWLand featuring 94 luxury apartments and ground-floor retail and cafe space located directly opposite the Watson Shops. The project is designed to integrate with the local precinct and provide modern residential amenities in Canberra's inner north, with completion scheduled for 2026.
The Watson Place Precinct Redevelopment, also known as Watson On Aspinall, is an ACT Government-led urban renewal initiative transforming Section 76 in North Watson. The project involves the creation of a medium-density residential precinct with approximately 200 new dwellings, including demonstration housing models and co-housing.
The ACT Government is modernising Majura Primary School to deliver new school facilities and upgrades that enhance learning and play environments. Following community consultation in 2025, the project features improved flexible learning spaces, a new larger library, bathroom improvements, and targeted accessibility and security upgrades.
TANA is a boutique townhouse development in Lyneham comprising 11 four-bedroom residences. The project includes spacious floorplans with second living areas, three bathrooms, double garages, private alfresco areas, premium finishes, double-glazed windows and a minimum 7-star energy rating.
Expansion of the Bullecourt Retirement Village within the Mona Tait Gardens seniors living precinct. Stage 1 comprising 20 independent living units has been completed.
Images marked AI impression are illustrative only and not photographs of the project; follow the project links for actual imagery. Original imagery? Contact us.
Estimated completion year of the 62 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 4, 2026 11, 2027 14, 2028 18, 2029 2, 2030 6, 2031 2, 2032 2, 2033 1, 2034 0, 2035 2. 9 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 5 substantial development applications lodged in and around Downer over the period covered (about 1.7 years), 3 in the last 12 months; 2 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2025 (part year) 3, 2026 (to Oct) 2.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 5 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 1.7 years) | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 3 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 6.6 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 29 | ABS building approvals | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 1 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 1.7 years) | |
| Applications under assessment | 2 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 1.7 years) |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Downer include: Dickson Shops Upgrade (Construction); Watson Section 76 Residential Estate Development (Dev. Application); The Establishment Watson (Construction); Watson on Aspinall (Section 76 North Watson) (Approved); and Watson Shops Redevelopment (Planning). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Downer spans multiple sectors including Communities, Residential Development, and Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, among others.
With an infrastructure score in the top 40%, the suburb of Downer demonstrates above-average development activity compared to national benchmarks.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Downer compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Downer area has seen 16 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Downer's current population of 4,883 has been supported by 29 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Downer has seen 6.6 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 9.2 approvals in Australian Capital Territory. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 569 people in the suburb of Downer, compared to one for every 147 in Australian Capital Territory.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Downer's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 29, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Downer has grown by approximately 392 people, while 145 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 2.7 people added for each new dwelling approval. This indicates solid population growth supported by housing development activity.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
Population growth drivers in Downer are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 4,883 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +13.7% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 2,988 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 84th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +2.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 4,296 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 587 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 1.63 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Downer was estimated to be approximately 4,883 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 4,556 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Downer has added approximately 587 people and shown a 13.66% increase from the 4,296 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Downer is estimated at 2,996 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Downer has shown a compound annual growth rate of 2.3% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Downer is driven by: Overseas migration (78.0%), Natural increase (22.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 78.0% of overall population gains.
Downer's population is younger than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 35 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 24th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 12.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 16.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 33.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 55.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age at the 2021 Census | 35 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 11.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 15.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 17.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 16.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 12.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 9.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 6.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 4.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Downer at 35 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 35 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 35 years as at August 2026, Downer is equal to the Australian Capital Territory 2021 Census average and 3 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Downer compared to the Australian Capital Territory region is the 35 - 44 group, making up 16.5% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Downer compared to the Australian Capital Territory region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 6.5% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the suburb of Downer is broadly in line with Australian Capital Territory.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 16.5% of the population in the suburb of Downer as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 12.9% of the population in the suburb of Downer as at August 2026.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 88% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $70,445 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 85th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $84,643 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,267 | 2021 Census, weekly | 81st percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $1,125 | 2021 Census, weekly | 87th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 37.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,882 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 15.8% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Downer is approximately $75,390. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $70,445.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Downer is approximately $90,585. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $84,643.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Downer is approximately $75,390 compared to $81,672 in Australian Capital Territory. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $70,445 and $76,315 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Downer is approximately $90,585 compared to $96,344 in Australian Capital Territory. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $84,643 and $90,024 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Downer's households (~31.1% / 506 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Downer is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 31.1% of households. In comparison, Australian Capital Territory's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 34.3% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Downer is $2,267/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Downer is $2,882/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Downer is $1,125/wk.
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the suburb of Downer had a median income among taxpayers of $70,445 with the average level standing at $84,643. This is among the highest in Australia and compares to levels of $76,315 and $90,024 across Australian Capital Territory respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.02% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $75,390 (median) and $90,585 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Downer is $8,380 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Downer's disposable income is $8,380 compared to $8,812 for Australian Capital Territory, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Downer remain below the national average according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 5.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 72.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 2,619 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 3,650 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 2,763 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Downer has approximately 2,619 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 5.2%. The unemployment rate is moderate, indicating some available workforce capacity. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Downer stands at 5.2%, which is 1.2 percentage points above Australian Capital Territory's rate of 4.1%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Downer is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are public administration & safety (29.8% of employment), professional & technical (12.9%), and education & training (10.5%). These three sectors alone account for 53.2% of local employment, indicating significant concentration. Other significant employers include accommodation & food and health care & social assistance.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Downer has experienced stable employment levels while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Australian Capital Territory saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Downer is 72.3%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This high participation rate indicates strong workforce engagement and economic vitality. The local rate leading the Australian Capital Territory average of 71.1%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Australian Capital Territory.
The suburb of Downer shows notable specialisation in accommodation & food, which employs 8.7% of the local workforce compared to 6.5% across Australian Capital Territory. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector.
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The suburb of Downer's employment market shows below-average performance in national comparisons. While employment opportunities exist, the area faces more challenges than many other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 7.3% decline, ranking 35th out of 37 regions nationally.
Downer demonstrates exceptional educational outcomes, ranking among the top 2% of areas nationally based on AreaSearch's comprehensive analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 29.9% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 20.5% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 56.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 10.8% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 5.6% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 7.2% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 26.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 34.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 11.6% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 8.8% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 6.3% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
56.0% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Downer have university qualifications, compared to 46.8% in Australian Capital Territory.
26.1% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Downer have no formal qualifications, compared to 28.6% in Australian Capital Territory.
The suburb of Downer ranks in the 98th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Downer are: Bachelor Degree (29.9%), Postgraduate (20.5%), Certificate (10.8%).
34.2% of the population in the suburb of Downer is currently engaged in formal education, including 8.8% in primary school, 6.3% in secondary school, 11.6% at university (all shares of total residents).
Downer features high concentrations of group households but relatively few family households, with an average household size in line with Australian Capital Territory.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.5 people | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 27.1% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 28.9% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 24.2% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 8.9% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 9.3% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,626 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,848 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 63.6% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.2 per family | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Downer had 1,626 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 13.7% to an estimated 1,848 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Downer is 2.5 people. This compares to 2.5 in Australian Capital Territory and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 63.6% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (27.1%), group households (9.3%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 1,034 family households, couples with children account for 28.9% of all households, couples without children at home 24.2%, and single parent families 8.9%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Australian Capital Territory, the suburb of Downer shows distinct household patterns. Conversely, family households are under-represented at 63.6% compared to 69.6% in Australian Capital Territory. The prevalence of shared households suggests a younger demographic or affordability considerations.
Families in the suburb of Downer have an average of 1.2 children, slightly below the Australian Capital Territory average of 1.4. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 41.5% of the adult population are currently married, while 44.5% have never married. This compares to 46.8% married and 39.2% never married across Australian Capital Territory.
Single-person households represent 27.1% of all households in the suburb of Downer, similar to the average for Australian Capital Territory of 25.7%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 9.3% of households, above the Australian Capital Territory average of 4.7%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Downer was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 29.9% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 24.4% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 75.6% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 84.5% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 70.1% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.3% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
Downer was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 29.9% of its population born overseas and 24.4% speaking a language other than English at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Downer, at 29.2% of people, although more residents (58.3%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 6.6% of the population, compared to 3.0% across Australian Capital Territory.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Downer are English, comprising 22.9% of the population, Australian, comprising 22.6% of the population, and Other, comprising 13.1% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: French is notably overrepresented at 0.8% of Downer (vs 0.5% across Australian Capital Territory), Hungarian at 0.4% (vs 0.3%) and Russian at 0.5% (vs 0.3%).
29.9% of the suburb of Downer population was born overseas, compared to 29.9% across Australian Capital Territory.
24.4% of the population in the suburb of Downer speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 25.6% in Australian Capital Territory.
1.3% of the suburb of Downer population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Australian Capital Territory.
84.5% of the suburb of Downer population holds citizenship, compared to 85.8% in Australian Capital Territory.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Downer displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 36.9% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 27.4% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 67.1% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,167 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 79th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 35.6% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 16.0% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $420 | 2021 Census, weekly | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 18.5% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 29th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 22.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 32nd percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.9 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Downer, 27.4% of homes are owned outright, 35.6% are owned with a mortgage, and 36.9% are rented.
According to the latest data, 67.1% of dwellings in the suburb of Downer are houses.
In the suburb of Downer, 16.8% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 16.0% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Downer stands at 27.4%, compared to 27.3% in Australian Capital Territory.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Downer is $2,167, compared to $2,080 in Australian Capital Territory.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Downer is $1,443, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Downer, households with mortgages typically spend 22.1% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 18.5% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Downer is 0.9, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Downer shows mortgage holders spending 22.1% of income on repayments (vs 20.2% in Australian Capital Territory), while renters spend 18.5% of income on rent (vs 19.0% in Australian Capital Territory).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Downer consists of 67.1% detached houses, 16.0% semi-detached dwellings, 16.8% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Downer consumes approximately 14.7% of median household income ($9,816 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Downer show attached dwellings contributing 12% of approvals compared to 33% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 88% of applications versus 67% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
Downer's residents are healthier than average in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 59.2% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 76th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 69.8% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 4.1% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 74.6% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.2% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
Around 59.2% of people in the suburb of Downer are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 62.2% in Australian Capital Territory.
In the suburb of Downer, 4.1% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Australian Capital Territory require similar assistance.
8.0% of people in the suburb of Downer are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.1% of the population across Australian Capital Territory is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 2.8% of the suburb of Downer population, while in Australian Capital Territory, 3.5% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
2.6% of people in the suburb of Downer have heart disease. Across Australian Capital Territory,2.8% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Downer, 59.2% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Australian Capital Territory sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 62.2%.
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 85 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 85th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 22 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 3,143 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 63rd percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 207 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 54 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.2 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 13.2% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 22 public transport stops within the suburb of Downer.
The suburb of Downer has 3,143 weekly trips across 54 routes, averaging 449 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 209 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 410 m away and the nearest GP 646 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 22 stops nearby, 3,143 weekly trips, access rating 85 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 37 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 37th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 410 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 646 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 672 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 715 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest dentist | 753 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 844 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 914 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 4.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 5.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 6.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA).
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on Downer is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Downer.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Downer compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Downer has strong levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 20% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Population growth drivers in Downer are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Downer's population is younger than the national pattern.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 88% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
Employment conditions in Downer remain below the national average according to AreaSearch analysis.
Downer demonstrates exceptional educational outcomes, ranking among the top 2% of areas nationally based on AreaSearch's comprehensive analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
Downer features high concentrations of group households but relatively few family households, with an average household size in line with Australian Capital Territory.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Downer was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Downer displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Downer's residents are healthier than average in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Downer has an estimated 4,883 residents, up 13.7% since the 2021 Census, with 104 projects tracked in the area around Downer.
Latest estimate as at Aug 2026; other figures from the 2021 Census, ATO FY-24 and AreaSearch estimates where labelled. Updated 14 Oct 2026.
Sources: ABS Census 2021, ABS estimated resident population, ATO taxation statistics, state rental bonds and property sales records where published, and AreaSearch analysis for Downer.
Data currency
Refreshed . Population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Apr 2026. Housing and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 15 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
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 a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (SAL80047). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries (suburb-style geography). SAL represents commonly-known suburb names used in addresses, while Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census and statistical reporting. Even when sharing the same name, SAL and SA2 boundaries often cover different geographic areas with different populations.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Apr 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, households, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Downer from the 2021 Census, ATO taxpayer data and AreaSearch estimates and analysis. Each topic has its own table of key figures beside the section it belongs to, and each row names its source and date. The percentile compares Downer with every neighbourhood-sized area across Australia (ABS SA2 areas): a higher percentile means more of that measure than most, not necessarily better.
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
