Fairy Meadow

Suburb (SAL)

Rest of NSW / Wollongong

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Data Sources ABSValuer GeneralRental BoardACARA Newest Sep 2026 · Refreshed ABS QuickStats SAL11487 How we calculate this
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Suburb (SAL) Boundary Analysis

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.

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Sales ActivityProperty Sales Trends in Fairy Meadow

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The median house price in Fairy Meadow is $1.37m, with units at $618k. House values have moved 4.5% a year compounded over five years.

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DemographicsPopulation Growth in Fairy Meadow

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Fairy Meadow has an estimated 7,890 residents, up from 7,512 at the 2021 Census — a change of 378 people, or 5.0%. Growth has averaged 0.7% a year over five years. Overseas migration accounts for 87.0% of that increase. That puts 2,307 residents on each square kilometre. Population is estimated from ABS Estimated Resident Population releases and GNAF address data, re-based from the 2021 Census and updated annually.

Detail

According to AreaSearch's evaluation of regional ABS updates alongside post-Census validated address counts, the suburb of Fairy Meadow has a population of approximately 7,890 as of Aug 2026. This indicates an expansion of 378 people (5.0%) from the 7,512 people recorded during the 2021 Census. Such growth is deduced from an estimated resident total of 7,870 derived from the ABS ERP data release (June 2025), coupled with 96 validated new addresses identified following the Census. Local population density stands at 2,307 persons per square kilometer, outpacing the national average benchmarked across AreaSearch study areas.

Furthermore, the 5.0% pace of expansion recorded in the suburb of Fairy Meadow since the 2021 census outstripped the broader SA3 area (4.8%), positioning it at the forefront of regional growth. This expansion was predominantly fueled by overseas arrivals, who accounted for roughly 87.0% of recent population additions. For local forecasts, AreaSearch adopts the ABS/Geoscience Australia SA2 projections published in 2024 (referencing 2022 as the base year), defaulting to NSW State Government SA2 modeling from 2022 (with 2021 as the base year) wherever gaps exist. Age-specific growth trajectories from these datasets are applied across all locations for the period covering 2032 to 2041. Looking forward, the suburb of Fairy Meadow is slated to outpace the median non-capital benchmark, with aggregated SA2 figures pointing to an increase of 1,524 persons to 2041, representing a cumulative rise of 19.1% across the 16 years.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
Total population for the suburb of Fairy Meadow was estimated to be approximately 7,890 as at Aug 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 7,870 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the suburb of Fairy Meadow changed since 2021?
The suburb of fairy meadow has added approximately 378 people and shown a 5.03% increase from the 7,512 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
The population density in the suburb of Fairy Meadow is estimated at 2,307 persons per square kilometer based on the latest population estimate.
How much has the population grown over the past 10 years in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Fairy Meadow has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.5% per annum.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
Population growth in the suburb of Fairy Meadow is driven by: Overseas migration (87.0%), Natural increase (13.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 87.0% of overall population gains.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Fairy Meadow

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127 new dwellings have been approved in Fairy Meadow over the past five years, an average of 25 a year. That is 4.3 approvals per 1,000 residents. Of the 33 dwellings approved in the latest reporting year, 39% were detached houses and the rest townhouses or apartments. Approvals are currently running at an annualised 37, running ahead of that longer-run average. Figures come from ABS building approvals aggregated to this Suburb (SAL) boundary and are updated monthly as the ABS releases them.

Detail

AreaSearch's evaluation of ABS building approvals across statistical geographies indicates that the suburb of Fairy Meadow registers roughly 25 residential approvals annually. Over the past 5 financial years (between FY-21 and FY-25), an estimated 127 residential dwellings received approval, alongside 37 so far in FY-25. Across the 5 financial years (between FY-21 and FY-25), an average of 1.1 people arrived per newly constructed dwelling, reflecting a well-aligned balance between supply and demand that fosters market stability. Concurrently, approved dwellings average an expected construction cost of $670,000, underscoring an emphasis by developers on high-end, premium builds.

On the commercial front, $12.9 million in building approvals have been logged this financial year, pointing to steady non-residential development. Relative to Rest of NSW, local construction volume per capita in the suburb of Fairy Meadow tracks at roughly 67%, ranking in the 59th percentile among nationally monitored locations. Recent residential building activity is split between detached houses at 39.0% and medium-to-high density formats (townhouses or apartments) at 61.0%. This emphasis on higher-density construction offers more accessible price brackets suited for downsizers, first-time purchasers, and investors. It also represents a distinct shift from current residential stock (currently 57.0% houses), driven by tightening land supplies and shifting lifestyle requirements. Recording around 232 people per dwelling approval, the locality retains low-density urban planning attributes. Projecting forward from AreaSearch's latest quarterly calculations, the suburb of Fairy Meadow is anticipated to add 1,504 residents through to 2041. Should current construction volumes persist, housing supply could lag population growth, which may heighten buyer competition and reinforce upward pressure on construction values and property pricing.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the suburb of Fairy Meadow recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the suburb of Fairy Meadow area has seen 92 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Fairy Meadow's current population of 7,890 has been supported by 25 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the suburb of Fairy Meadow's development activity compare to the broader region?
The suburb of Fairy Meadow has seen 0.42 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.56 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 231 people in the suburb of Fairy Meadow, compared to one for every 183 in the broader region.
Is the suburb of Fairy Meadow keeping up with housing demand?
With the population expected to increase by 1,504 people by 2041, around 752 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels appear broadly sufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Fairy Meadow's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 25, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
How many dwellings will be needed to accommodate future population growth in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
The population in the suburb of Fairy Meadow is expected to grow by 1,504 people by 2041, necessitating approximately 752 new dwellings. This calculation is based on the current census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling in the area.
How does recent development compare to population growth in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Fairy Meadow has grown by approximately 1,469 people, while 127 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 11.6 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
Are there opportunities for residential developers in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 25 approvals per year and a population of 7,890, the market appears to be reasonably balanced between supply and demand, presenting moderate opportunities for well-positioned developments. With the population expected to increase by 1,504 people by 2041, around 752 new dwellings will be necessary. Current approval trends may be insufficient to meet forecast demand, indicating strong development opportunities.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Fairy Meadow

Development applications around Fairy Meadow

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SOURCE: Planning portals and council registers, compiled by AreaSearch. Distance & bearing measured from the suburb midpoint.

Project PipelineInfrastructure & Major Projects in Fairy Meadow

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AreaSearch tracks 2 current infrastructure and development projects inside Fairy Meadow, worth an estimated $13 million. A further 59 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $49.3 billion. 16 are already under construction and 36 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans residential development, communities, precincts & urban renewal and communities. Records are compiled from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, council planning portals and public announcements, reviewed and updated daily, then ranked by proximity, construction stage, completion horizon and project scale.

Detail

Civil works and planning undertakings significantly shape local growth. AreaSearch has pinpointed 11 key infrastructure initiatives influencing the district, notably the Mount Ousley Interchange, Elements at IRT Towradgi Beach, 68-74 Princes Highway Mixed-Use Development, and the Fairy Meadow Ambulance Station.

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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Fairy Meadow include: Mount Ousley Interchange (Construction); Elements at IRT Towradgi Beach (Planning); 68-74 Princes Highway Mixed-Use Development (Dev. Approval); Fairy Meadow Ambulance Station (Completed); and Corrimal Transport Oriented Development Area (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Fairy Meadow spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Health & Medical, and Communities, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates substantial capital deployment exceeding $3.5 billion in projects that will impact the extended area, with a notable concentration of investment within the immediate the suburb of Fairy Meadow vicinity.
How does the suburb of Fairy Meadow's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
The suburb of Fairy Meadow ranks in the top 10% nationally for infrastructure development, reflecting exceptional investment activity compared to similar areas across the country.
68-74 Princes Highway Mixed-Use Development
Category: Communities
Stage: Dev. Approval | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Demolition of existing commercial structures and construction of a four-storey mixed-use shop top housing development at the corner of Princes Highway and Daisy Street, Fairy Meadow. The development comprises 36 residential apartments (13 one-bedroom and 23 two-bedroom units, with a condition to convert at least three units to three-bedroom) and three commercial tenancies on the ground floor. The 2,623 square metre L-shaped site includes basement and ground floor parking, communal open space, landscaping, and stormwater works.The development was approved by the Wollongong Local Planning Panel on 27 August 2024 with conditions including a developer contribution of $133,600, dilapidation reports for adjoining buildings, and amendments to incorporate three-bedroom dwellings.

Communities

Mount Ousley Interchange
Category: Transport & Logistics
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Joint Australian and NSW Government project to replace the existing at-grade M1 Princes Motorway and Mount Ousley Road intersection with a safer grade-separated interchange at the gateway to Wollongong. Works include a heavy vehicle bypass lane, separate southbound off-ramps for light and heavy vehicles, two heavy vehicle safety ramps, bridge structures, signalised intersections, a commuter car park, active transport links, University of Wollongong access improvements and noise walls. Major construction is underway by Fulton Hogan.In April 2026 the first heavy vehicle safety ramp opened to traffic and bridge girder installation was progressing, with completion on track for 2028.

Transport & Logistics

Elements at IRT Towradgi Beach
Category: Health & Medical
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A major redevelopment of the IRT Towradgi Retirement Village site. While a 2025 proposal for an 87-unit seniors living community (Elements at IRT Towradgi Beach) was not approved by the Wollongong Local Planning Panel in April 2026 due to site constraints including flooding, IRT Group is currently exploring alternative development pathways to deliver diverse and accessible housing on the land.

Health & Medical

Sylvan Ridge
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Sylvan Ridge is a 22-lot residential land estate at the foot of the Illawarra Escarpment in Balgownie. Developed and built by Realta, the estate offers lots from 595m2 to 7734m2 for custom homes in a private natural setting, with internal roads, drainage, floodway works and retaining walls progressing. Realta states the project is under construction and on track for completion in Q2 2026.

Residential Development

Wollongong Hospital Redevelopment - Equipment Upgrades
Category: Health
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The NSW Government invested $21.9 million to upgrade Wollongong Hospital, delivering a new MRI machine and CT scanner housed in a new medical imaging suite within the hospital atrium, closer to the Emergency Department for faster diagnostics. A relocated and expanded Medical Ambulatory Care (MAC) Unit and enlarged Transit Lounge are also now open, improving outpatient flow. Construction of the medical imaging department is now complete. Project manager was Johnstaff, architects were Shersons Architecture (MAC) and Gran Associates (Medical Imaging), with Taylor Construction as builder.A separate $220 million investment for the future expansion of Wollongong Hospital and the Wollongong Health Precinct has been committed by the NSW Government, with early planning and site investigation underway.

Health

Corrimal Transport Oriented Development Area
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2029
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The Corrimal Transport Oriented Development (TOD) program enables high-density residential growth within 400m of the station. The flagship project, 'The Works Corrimal' (formerly Corrimal Coke Works), is a masterplanned precinct delivering roughly 850 dwellings and 9ha of parkland. As of 2026, construction is progressing on Stage 1 (179 apartments), while Stage 2A is undergoing assessment for built form variations. The development integrates heritage preservation of historic chimneys and coke ovens with modern apartments and a retail plaza.

Residential Development

Flinders Street Apartments
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   

A mixed-use shop-top housing development by Level 33. Originally approved for 201 units following a 2023 Land and Environment Court ruling, the project underwent a significant modification in early 2026 to add 2-3 additional levels. The revised plan delivers approximately 249 apartments across two buildings, featuring ground-floor commercial tenancies, communal green spaces, and 230 basement parking spots.

Residential Development

COAST Wollongong
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

COAST Wollongong is a boutique luxury residential development comprising 12 high-end apartments across nine levels. The project includes three Skyhomes and a double-storey penthouse featuring a private pool. Residences are designed with premium finishes and equipped with Miele and Sub Zero/Wolf appliances, offering panoramic views of the ocean and the Illawarra escarpment. Construction commenced in late 2025 with an estimated completion in late 2027.

Residential Development

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Fairy Meadow

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4,119 residents of Fairy Meadow are employed, from a labour force of 4,367. Unemployment sits at 5.7%, with participation at 64.1%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 6.5% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth. The working-day population is estimated at 6,992, about 89% of the resident population, so more people leave the area for work than travel in. Unemployment and labour force come from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, updated quarterly; the industry and occupation profile is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

The local labour market in the suburb of Fairy Meadow features an educated workforce with notable representation in essential public services, showing an unemployment rate of 5.7% and a 3.0% increase in job numbers over the preceding twelve months according to AreaSearch aggregated data. As of March 2026, employed residents total 4,119. The local jobless rate sits 1.6% higher than Regional NSW's 4.1%, while workforce participation is 64.1% against 60.6% in Regional NSW. Census records also indicate that 29.8% of workers operated from home, though this figure reflects prevailing Covid-19 restrictions.

The primary employment fields for resident workers consist of health care & social assistance, education & training, alongside retail trade. Finance & insurance represents a key local specialization, where the concentration of workers is 2.0 times the broader regional benchmark. In contrast, agriculture, forestry & fishing accounts for only 0.3% of the resident workforce compared to 5.3% regionally. Given the contrast between resident workers and local operational positions recorded at the Census, the suburb functions primarily as a dormitory community with limited commercial employment within its boundaries. Synthesizing ABS and SALM metrics, the local job market expanded by 3.0% while the labour pool grew by 3.2% over the 12-month period, leading to a 0.2 percentage point uptick in the jobless rate. Conversely, Regional NSW saw employment fall by 0.9% and its workforce contract by 0.4%, generating a 0.5 percentage point rise. Broader hiring prospects can be assessed via Jobs and Skills Australia projections from Mar-26. Across the country, job growth is modeled at 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, though industry variations exist. When calibrated against Fairy Meadow's specific sector distribution, local employment is projected to expand by 6.5% over five years and 13.6% over ten years (representing an illustrative weighting that excludes micro-level population changes).

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
As of March 2026, the suburb of Fairy Meadow has approximately 4,119 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 5.7%. The unemployment rate is moderate, indicating some available workforce capacity. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement.
How does the suburb of Fairy Meadow's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Fairy Meadow stands at 5.7%, which is 1.6 percentage points above Regional NSW's rate of 4.1%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
What are the major employment sectors in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
The employment landscape in the suburb of Fairy Meadow is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (16.7% of employment), education & training (10.5%), and retail trade (10.1%). Other significant employers include accommodation & food and construction.
How has employment changed recently in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Fairy Meadow has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has rise. By comparison, Regional NSW saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
What is the workforce participation rate in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Fairy Meadow is 64.1%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate leading the Regional NSW average of 60.6%, showing similar workforce dynamics to the broader region.
Which industries are over-represented in the suburb of Fairy Meadow's employment market?
The suburb of fairy meadow shows notable specialization in finance & insurance, which employs 4.0% of the local workforce compared to 2.0% regionally. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector.
What are the employment growth prospects for the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the suburb of Fairy Meadow's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 6.5% over the next five years and 13.6% over ten years. This compares to national growth expectations of 6.6% over five years. Steady growth is anticipated across multiple sectors, providing diverse employment opportunities.
How does the job market in the suburb of Fairy Meadow compare nationally?
The suburb of fairy meadow'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 experienced 1.6% growth, ranking 9.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
Skilled workers will find good opportunities in the suburb of Fairy Meadow, with skilled sectors accounting for 38.6% of employment. Key sectors for skilled workers include health care & social assistance (16.7%), education & training (10.5%), and professional & technical (6.4%). With projected employment growth of 6.5% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Fairy Meadow

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Median household income in Fairy Meadow is $1,407 a week (about $73,000 a year), with median personal income at $674 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $48,852 a year against an average of $65,661. Household income is from the 2021 Census; taxable income is from ATO Taxation Statistics for the latest financial year available, indexed forward using the ABS Wage Price Index.

Detail

According to AreaSearch's aggregation of postcode-level ATO returns for financial year 2023, the suburb of Fairy Meadow recorded a median taxpayer income of $48,852 alongside an average taxpayer income of $65,661. These earnings sit below nationwide norms, whereas Regional NSW posted a median of $52,390 and an average of $65,215. Factoring in Wage Price Index movement of 10.32% since financial year 2023, local income levels are estimated at approximately $53,894 (median) and $72,437 (average) as of March 2026. Across household, family, and individual brackets at the 2021 Census, local earnings sat between the 23rd and 29th percentiles.

The primary earning cohort comprises 29.0% of individuals making between $1,500 - 2,999 weekly (2,288 residents), consistent with Regional NSW's 29.9%. Disposable income after housing costs is restricted at 80.3% of income remaining (placing in the 24th percentile), while the area's SEIFA income score falls within the 5th decile.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Fairy Meadow is approximately $53,894. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $48,852.
What is the average taxable income in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Fairy Meadow is approximately $72,437. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $65,661.
How does the median taxable income in the suburb of Fairy Meadow compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Fairy Meadow is approximately $53,894 compared to $57,797 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $48,852 and $52,390 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the suburb of Fairy Meadow compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Fairy Meadow is approximately $72,437 compared to $71,945 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $65,661 and $65,215 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the suburb of Fairy Meadow according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~29.0% / 2,288 persons) of the suburb of Fairy Meadow's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the suburb of Fairy Meadow compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the suburb of Fairy Meadow is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 29.0% of the population. In comparison, Regional NSW's largest income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 29.9% of its population, according to the 2021 Census.
What is the median household income in the suburb of Fairy Meadow according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Fairy Meadow is $1,407/wk.
What is the median family income in the suburb of Fairy Meadow according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Fairy Meadow is $1,872/wk.
What is the median personal income in the suburb of Fairy Meadow according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Fairy Meadow is $674/wk.
How does the suburb of Fairy Meadow's income rank nationally?
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-23 reveals that income in the suburb of Fairy Meadow is just below the national average, with the median assessed at $48,852 while the average income stands at $65,661. This contrasts to Regional NSW's figures of a median income of $52,390 and an average income of $65,215. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 10.32% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $53,894 (median) and $72,437 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Fairy Meadow is $4,898 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the suburb of Fairy Meadow's disposable income compare to the region?
The suburb of fairy meadow's disposable income is $4,898 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Fairy Meadow

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Fairy Meadow had 2,995 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 57% detached houses and 22% apartments. 23% are owned with a mortgage, 42% rented and 35% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $390 a week and the median mortgage repayment $2,167 a month. Rent absorbs 27.7% of household income here and mortgage repayments 35.5%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

Census data indicates that residential properties in the suburb of Fairy Meadow consist of 57.4% houses and 42.6% other dwellings such as townhouses, units, and apartments, contrasting with Regional NSW where houses comprise 82.6% and other dwellings 17.4%. Outright home ownership stands lower than the broader region at 35.4%, while 22.5% of homes carry a mortgage and 42.1% are occupied by tenants. Monthly mortgage payments average a median of $2,167 compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW and $1,863 nationally. Weekly rental costs show a median of $390, surpassing Regional NSW's $330 as well as the Australian benchmark of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
In the suburb of Fairy Meadow, 35.4% of homes are owned outright, 22.5% are owned with a mortgage, and 42.1% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the suburb of Fairy Meadow are houses?
According to the latest data, 57.4% of dwellings in the suburb of Fairy Meadow are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the suburb of Fairy Meadow are apartments or units?
In the suburb of Fairy Meadow, 22.2% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 19.5% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Fairy Meadow stands at 35.4%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Fairy Meadow is $2,167, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
What is the median weekly rent in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
The median weekly rent in the suburb of Fairy Meadow is $390, compared to $330 in Regional NSW.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
In the suburb of Fairy Meadow, 10.8% of rentals are $0-149/week, 28.4% are $150-349/week, 56.2% are $350-649/week, 4.3% are $650-949/week, and 0.2% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Fairy Meadow is $1,199, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
In the suburb of Fairy Meadow, households with mortgages typically spend 35.5% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 27.7% of their income on rent.
How crowded are homes in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Fairy Meadow is 0.9, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the suburb of Fairy Meadow compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the suburb of Fairy Meadow shows mortgage holders spending 35.5% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% regionally), while renters spend 27.7% of income on rent (vs 23.0% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Fairy Meadow consists of 57.4% detached houses, 19.5% semi-detached dwellings, 22.2% apartments, and 0.9% other dwelling types.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
Factoring in the ownership distribution, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $1,199. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $2,167/month, and renters paying $1,689/month.
How affordable is housing in the suburb of Fairy Meadow relative to local incomes?
Housing in Fairy Meadow consumes approximately 19.7% of median household income ($6,092 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
How do proposed developments compare to existing housing types in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
Recent development applications in Fairy Meadow show attached dwellings contributing 67% of approvals compared to 43% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 33% of applications versus 57% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Fairy Meadow

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Fairy Meadow counted 2,995 households at the 2021 Census, an estimated 3,146 today, averaging 2.4 people each. 24% are couples with children, against 23% couples without children. 31% of households are people living alone, and families average 1.5 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Families make up the majority of households at 61.1%, consisting of 23.8% couples with children, 23.3% couples without children, and 12.7% single parent families. Non-family living arrangements account for the remaining 38.9%, divided into lone person households at 30.9% and group households at 7.9%. Average household occupancy aligns with the Regional NSW norm at a median of 2.4 people.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Fairy Meadow had 2,995 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 5.0% to an estimated 3,146 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median household size in the suburb of Fairy Meadow is 2.4 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
What types of households are most common?
Family households dominate at 61.1% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (30.9%), group households (7.9%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 1,829 family households, 23.8% are couples with children, 23.3% are couples without children at home, and 12.7% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the suburb of Fairy Meadow compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Regional NSW, the suburb of Fairy Meadow shows distinct household patterns. Conversely, family households are under-represented at 61.1% compared to the regional 68.8%. The prevalence of shared households suggests a younger demographic or affordability considerations.
What is the average family size?
Families in the suburb of Fairy Meadow have an average of 1.5 children, slightly below the Regional NSW average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
What are the marriage patterns in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
Marriage patterns reveal 38.5% of the adult population are currently married, while 41.7% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
How significant are single-person households?
Single-person households represent 30.9% of all households in the suburb of Fairy Meadow, similar to the regional average of 27.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Are shared living arrangements common?
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 7.9% of households, well below the Regional NSW average of 3.3%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
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EducationSchools & Education in Fairy Meadow

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28.1% of adults in Fairy Meadow hold a university qualification, including 17.7% with a bachelor degree and 8.3% with postgraduate qualifications. A further 25.5% hold a vocational qualification. 4 schools serve the area, with 1,010 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 1,040 against a national benchmark of 1,000. Qualifications come from the 2021 Census; school enrolments, ICSEA and results come from ACARA's current release.

Detail

Educational attainment in the area is pronounced, with 28.1% of residents aged 15+ holding university credentials, outpacing the Rest of NSW benchmark of 21.3%. By specific qualifications, bachelor degrees account for 17.7%, postgraduate awards represent 8.3%, and graduate diplomas make up 2.1%. Technical and vocational training is also well represented, with 36.1% of residents aged 15+ possessing vocational credentials, including 10.6% holding advanced diplomas and 25.5% holding certificates. Formal study participation is substantial, with 31.9% of the local population engaged in an educational course. Specifically, tertiary education accounts for 10.6% of residents, primary education accounts for 8.1%, and 6.3% are attending secondary school.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the suburb of Fairy Meadow have university qualifications?
28.1% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Fairy Meadow have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the suburb of Fairy Meadow have no formal qualifications?
35.8% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Fairy Meadow have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% regionally.
How does the suburb of Fairy Meadow's education level compare to national averages?
The suburb of fairy meadow ranks in the 61th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
What types of qualifications are most common in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Fairy Meadow are: Certificate (25.5%), Bachelor Degree (17.7%), Advanced Diploma (10.6%).
What proportion of the suburb of Fairy Meadow's population is currently attending educational institutions?
31.9% of the population in the suburb of Fairy Meadow is currently engaged in formal education, with 8.1% in primary school, 6.3% in secondary school, 10.6% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Fairy Meadow is 1040, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
How many schools are located within the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
There are 4 schools within the suburb of Fairy Meadow, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,010 students.
What types of schools are available in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
The suburb of fairy meadow includes 4 primary schools.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Fairy Meadow

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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Fairy Meadow

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Public transport in Fairy Meadow reaches 68 stops on 42 routes, timetabled for about 2,800 services a week. The typical home sits about 160 m from its nearest stop. Buses carry the largest share of public transport commuters. Households keep an average of 1.1 vehicles. Stop and service counts are built from operators' published GTFS timetables and refresh with each timetable release; vehicle ownership is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

Commuters in the suburb of Fairy Meadow are served by 68 active transport stops across rail and bus networks. These stops are integrated across 42 individual routes that deliver 2,809 weekly passenger trips. Public transit access is strong, with an average distance of 160 meters to the nearest stop. Given the area's residential profile, most travel is outward bound: 86% of commuters travel by car, 4% walk, and household vehicle rates stand below the regional mark at 1.1 per dwelling. Working from home was recorded at 29.8% during the 2021 Census, subject to pandemic conditions.

Across all transit lines, operations average 401 trips per day, translating to roughly 41 weekly trips per individual stop.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Fairy Meadow?
There are 68 public transport stops within the suburb of Fairy Meadow.
How frequent are the transport services in Fairy Meadow?
the suburb of Fairy Meadow has 2,809 weekly trips across 42 routes, averaging 401 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Fairy Meadow?
On average, residential properties are 160 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Fairy Meadow

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66.2% of residents in Fairy Meadow report no long-term health condition. 7.3% need daily assistance with core activities, and 52.9% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 6.3 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

AreaSearch health metrics regarding mortality and chronic illnesses indicate notable wellness considerations in Fairy Meadow, with elevated condition prevalence across both younger and older demographics. Meanwhile, private health insurance coverage marginally surpasses the typical SA2 rate, encompassing approximately 53% of the total population (~4,174 people). Arthritis and mental health conditions are the most prevalent ailments locally, affecting 9.3 and 9.2% of residents, respectively, while 66.2% reported being free of any long-term medical conditions compared to 63.3% across Regional NSW. Working-age cohorts display above-average rates of chronic conditions. Residents aged 65 and over total 1,491 people (18.9% of the community), sitting below Regional NSW's 23.3%.

Overall health rankings for senior residents track closely with the broader community.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the suburb of Fairy Meadow have private health insurance?
Around 52.9% of people in the suburb of Fairy Meadow are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 51.9% in the broader region of Regional NSW.
What percentage of the population requires ongoing medical assistance in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
In the suburb of Fairy Meadow, 7.3% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
How prevalent is asthma in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
7.5% of people in the suburb of Fairy Meadow are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
What percentage of people have diabetes in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
Diabetes affects 4.3% of the the suburb of Fairy Meadow population, while in the surrounding region, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
What is the percentage of people with heart disease in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
3.4% of people in the suburb of Fairy Meadow have heart disease. Across the region of Regional NSW, 4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the suburb of Fairy Meadow compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the suburb of Fairy Meadow, 52.9% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional NSW sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 51.9%.

Ancestry & LanguageCultural Diversity in Fairy Meadow

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27.3% of Fairy Meadow residents were born overseas and 23.4% speak a language other than English at home. The largest reported ancestries are English (23.7%) and Australian (23.3%). Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Cultural diversity in the suburb of Fairy Meadow exceeds the vast majority of comparative markets, with 27.3% of the population born overseas and 23.4% using a non-English language at home. Christianity forms the largest faith group at 51.9% of residents. Islam shows a notable relative concentration, representing 5.1% of the population compared to 0.8% across Regional NSW. Regarding ancestral background, English ancestry is claimed by 23.7% of residents (below the regional benchmark of 30.5%), Australian ancestry accounts for 23.3% (versus 30.0% regionally), and Other lineages comprise 10.6% (compared to 4.8% across Regional NSW).

Divergences are also evident among specific communities: Italian background accounts for 7.2% (vs 2.1% regionally), while Macedonian stands at 1.0% (vs 0.4%) and Serbian accounts for 1.0% (vs 0.2%).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
Fairy Meadow was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 27.3% of its population born overseas and 23.4% speaking a language other than English at home.
What is the most common religion in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
The main religion in Fairy Meadow was found to be Christianity, which makes up 51.9% of people in Fairy Meadow. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Islam, which comprises 5.1% of the population, compared to 0.8% across Regional NSW.
What are the top countries of origin in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Fairy Meadow are English, comprising 23.7% of the population, which is notably lower than the regional average of 30.5%, Australian, comprising 23.3% of the population, which is notably lower than the regional average of 30.0%, and Other, comprising 10.6% of the population, which is substantially higher than the regional average of 4.8%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Serbian is notably overrepresented at 1.0% of Fairy Meadow (vs 0.2% regionally), Italian at 7.2% (vs 2.1%) and Macedonian at 1.0% (vs 0.4%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
27.3% of the the suburb of Fairy Meadow population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% regionally.
What percentage of the the suburb of Fairy Meadow population speaks a language other than English at home?
23.4% of the population in the suburb of Fairy Meadow speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in the wider region.
How many people in the suburb of Fairy Meadow identify as Australian Aboriginal?
1.7% of the the suburb of Fairy Meadow population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
83.7% of the the suburb of Fairy Meadow population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Fairy Meadow

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The median resident of Fairy Meadow is 37. That is 1 year younger than at the 2021 Census. 35.0% of residents are aged 15 to 34. Age cohorts are not raw Census counts: the Census split is re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections.

Detail

Demographics in the suburb of Fairy Meadow lean heavily toward young independent adults. August 2026 figures show that 29.2% of residents fall into the young to middle aged adults (25 - 44) bracket, compared to 23.5% regionally, while retirees and seniors (65+) make up 18.9% versus 23.3% across Regional NSW. The estimated median age is 37, down from 38 at the 2021 Census and 6 years younger than the Regional NSW mark of 43 from that same Census. Since the Census, the share of young to middle aged adults rose from 26.4% to an estimated 29.2%.

Looking ahead to 2041, this same cohort is projected to add 849 residents (37%), reaching 3,153.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Fairy Meadow at 37 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 38 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
How does the suburb of Fairy Meadow's median age compare to broader areas?
At an estimated 37 years as at August 2026, Fairy Meadow is 6 years younger than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) and comparable to the national Census average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Fairy Meadow compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 17.4% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Fairy Meadow compared to the Regional NSW region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 8.7% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Fairy Meadow show significant variance compared to the Regional NSW region. The most over-represented age groups are 25-34 year-olds (17.4% vs 11.5%) and 15-24 year-olds (17.6% vs 11.8%).
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 13.6% of the population in the suburb of Fairy Meadow as at August 2026.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the suburb of Fairy Meadow?
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 18.9% of the population in the suburb of Fairy Meadow as at August 2026.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Fairy Meadow

Data currency Refreshed

9 of 14 data sections on this page were updated within the last 12 months — the newest current to Sep 2026.

Everything is aggregated to the Suburb (SAL) boundary shown above, on a 2021 Census baseline. Only 3 sections — housing, households and cultural diversity — still wait on the 2026 Census.

The ledger — source, cycle and currency by section

Section Source & update cycle Currency
Updated within the last 12 months 9 sections
Population ABS, GNAF, Geoscience Australia Annual (ABS ERP) Aug 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release) and updated with new dwellings from GNAF address data. Current to Aug 2026, with the 2021 Census supplying the small-area baseline.
Age profile ABS, Geoscience Australia, State governments Annual Aug 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Age cohorts are re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections, current to Aug 2026. Each cohort is held as a Census baseline and a current estimate.
Development & approvals ABS, GNAF Monthly (ABS approvals) Aug 2026 last month headline measures · Jul 2026 baseline
Property sales & rents Valuer General, Rental Board, ABS Weekly sales, quarterly rents Sep 2026 this month all 21 measures
Sales from the state Valuer General register, refreshed weekly, and rents from quarterly rental bond lodgements. Both are read live each time this page loads, current to Sep 2026.
Infrastructure projects Infrastructure Australia, State agencies, Local governments Daily Apr 2026 5 months ago all 2 projects tracked here
Project pipeline maintained continuously from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, local government and public announcements. Records are added and revised daily; this area was last updated Apr 2026.
Employment ABS, DEWR, JSA Quarterly (ABS SALM) Mar 2026 6 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Unemployment and labour force from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, current to Mar 2026. The growth outlook applies Department of Employment (now Jobs and Skills Australia) forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to the local industry mix, so it measures sector composition rather than local expansion and makes no allowance for population growth. Job demand comes from the same agency via its Internet Vacancy Index; industry and occupation structure from the 2021 Census.
Education ABS, ACARA Annual (ACARA) Aug 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Transport ABS, State Transport Departments Each timetable release Jul 2026 2 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Services & amenities Provider directories, ACECQA Continuous Jul 2026 2 months ago all 14 measures
Annual and financial-year sources 2 sections
Income ABS, ATO Annual (ATO) FY 2023 3 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
ATO taxable income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index. Census household income provides the distribution detail.
Health ABS, ATO Annual 2024 2 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Census-measured — next update: 2026 Census 3 sections No more current small-area source exists for these, so they are labelled as Census-measured rather than implied to be current.
Housing ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 30 measures
Households ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 18 measures
Cultural diversity ABS, Geoscience Australia 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 44 measures

"Currency" is the most recent release feeding that section. Where the Census supplies the structural baseline underneath a current headline figure, the row says so.

How the numbers are built

Population

The Census provides the small-area baseline, aggregated from mesh blocks to this boundary. It is then re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release), and new dwellings built since Census night are counted from address data — 96 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for Aug 2026, not a 2021 count (7,512 at the 2021 Census → 7,890 now). Annual growth rates are compound (CAGR), not simple averages.

Age profile

Cohort shares are not raw Census counts. Every cohort is held as a pair — the Census baseline and a current estimate — and the split is re-based using ERP and state population projections, current to Aug 2026. Median age is the Census median plus modelled change since. Charts that show both are labelled "2021 Census vs Current Estimate".

Property sales

Sourced from the state valuation authority's sales register — current, not Census, and refreshed weekly. Medians are calculated from settled transactions in the period shown; periods with very low transaction counts are flagged or suppressed, because a handful of sales can move a median substantially.

Rents

Derived from state rental bond lodgement data, by dwelling type and bedroom count. Bonds are lodged at the start of a new tenancy, so this reflects new lettings, not the whole rented stock.

Development & infrastructure

Building approvals come from current ABS releases; development applications are collected from council and state planning portals; the infrastructure pipeline is compiled from Infrastructure Australia and local government sources. Applications are matched to this boundary by address or coordinates, so very recent lodgements may not yet appear.

Employment & income

Industry and occupation structure comes from the Census, but the headline labour-market indicators do not. Unemployment and labour force are derived from ABS Small Area Labour Markets (quarterly). The employment outlook applies Department of Employment forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to this area's own industry mix (the agency is now Jobs and Skills Australia), as does the Internet Vacancy Index used for job demand. Because it is weighted on industry composition alone, that outlook carries no allowance for local population growth — in fast-growing areas the real rise in local jobs will typically be higher. Income combines Census household income with ATO taxable-income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index.

Education, transport & amenities

School enrolments, ICSEA and performance come from ACARA's current release, not the Census. Public transport stops and service frequency are derived from GTFS timetable feeds published by state transport departments. Services and amenities are proximity and count scores built from provider directories, refreshed on their own cycle. The Census contributes only the travel-to-work and qualification measures.

Rankings and benchmarks. Where we rank this area, the comparison set is every area of the same boundary type — suburbs against suburbs, SA2s against SA2s. Benchmarks compare this area against its greater capital city region and the national figure for the same measure and period.

Limits worth knowing. Small areas carry larger error margins, and the ABS introduces small random adjustments to Census counts to protect confidentiality — so totals may not sum exactly. Estimates re-based from regional data describe the area's expected trajectory, not a direct count of it. Figures are indicative for research and are not financial, planning or valuation advice.

Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (SAL11487). QuickStats reports 2021 only — the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.

Common questions about this page

How do Fairy Meadow suburb boundaries differ from Statistical Areas?
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/statistical reporting. Even when sharing the same name, SAL and SA2 boundaries often cover different geographic areas with different populations.
Where does the data on this Fairy Meadow page come from?
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources — including ABS, Geoscience Australia, Valuer General, Provider directories, DEWR, JSA, State Transport Departments and ACARA — then aggregates them to the boundary shown and calculates the rankings, 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.
Is the Fairy Meadow data on this page just from the 2021 Census?
No. Most of this page is maintained well beyond the Census. Sourced entirely from current releases: development & approvals (Aug 2026), property sales & rents (Sep 2026), infrastructure projects (Apr 2026) and services & amenities (Jul 2026). Built on a Census baseline but carrying newer measures on top: population (to Aug 2026), age profile (to Aug 2026), employment (to Mar 2026), income (to FY 2023), education (to Aug 2026), transport (to Jul 2026) and health (to 2024). Population and age cohorts in particular are re-based to the latest ABS Estimated Resident Population rather than left at 2021 counts. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.

Nearby Areas