Footscray

Suburb (SAL)

Greater Melbourne / Maribyrnong

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Data Sources ABSValuer GeneralRental BoardACARA Newest Aug 2026 · Refreshed ABS QuickStats SAL20935 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 Footscray

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DemographicsPopulation Growth in Footscray

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Footscray has an estimated 20,920 residents, up from 17,131 at the 2021 Census — a change of 3,789 people, or 22.1%. Growth has averaged 2.9% a year over five years, faster than 91% of areas nationally. 1,937 new addresses have been validated here since Census night. Overseas migration accounts for 79.0% of that increase. That puts 4,046 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 ABS demographic updates and post-Census address verification by AreaSearch, the suburb of Footscray houses approximately 20,920 people as of May 2026. This represents an addition of 3,789 residents (22.1%) from the 2021 Census headcount of 17,131. This expansion is calculated from an estimated resident population of 20,891, which AreaSearch determined using the ABS June 2025 ERP release and 1,937 validated new addresses registered after the Census. The suburb of Footscray now has a density of 4,046 persons per square kilometer, placing it within the highest 10% of areas evaluated by AreaSearch and highlights the high demand for local land.

The 22.1% population increase since the 2021 census outpaced the state rise of 9.3% and national benchmarks, establishing the suburb of Footscray as a regional growth leader. This growth was largely supported by arrivals from abroad, who accounted for roughly 79.0% of the population gains, though interstate migration and natural increase also recorded positive contributions. AreaSearch utilizes projections from the ABS and Geoscience Australia for SA2 regions published in 2024 using 2022 as a baseline. For SA2 regions lacking this coverage, AreaSearch applies the 2023 Victorian State Government LGA projections, converting them to SA2 levels via a weighted growth distribution method. Age cohort growth rates from these conversions are likewise projected for the years 2032 to 2041. Looking forward, the suburb of Footscray is projected to experience rapid expansion in the top 10 percent of all Australian statistical regions, adding 14,535 residents by 2041 through aggregated SA2 projections, which represents a total increase of 69.3% over the 16 years.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the suburb of Footscray?
Total population for the suburb of Footscray was estimated to be approximately 20,920 as at May 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 20,891 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the suburb of Footscray changed since 2021?
The suburb of footscray has added approximately 3,789 people and shown a 22.12% increase from the 17,131 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the suburb of Footscray?
The population density in the suburb of Footscray is estimated at 4,046 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 Footscray?
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Footscray has shown a compound annual growth rate of 2.2% per annum.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the suburb of Footscray?
Population growth in the suburb of Footscray is driven by: Overseas migration (79.0%), Interstate migration (16.0%), Natural increase (4.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 79.0% of overall population gains.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Footscray

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2,507 new dwellings have been approved in Footscray over the past five years, an average of 501 a year. That places the area in the 89th percentile for residential development activity nationally, about 24 approvals per 1,000 residents a year. Of the 428 dwellings approved in the latest reporting year, 1% were detached houses and the rest townhouses or apartments. Approvals are currently running at an annualised 30, well below 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

An evaluation of building approvals by AreaSearch indicates that the suburb of Footscray averaged about 501 residential approvals annually, with 2,507 dwellings approved during the last 5 financial years (from FY-21 to FY-25) and 28 during the current FY-26. With an average of 1.1 new residents per built dwelling over the 5 financial years spanning FY-21 to FY-25, demand matches supply closely to maintain stable market conditions, while the average expected construction cost for these new homes is $436,000—slightly higher than the region's average—pointing to a focus on premium construction.

Furthermore, commercial approvals reached $1.658 billion this financial year, showing robust local business construction. Newly approved structures consist of 1.0% stand-alone houses and 99.0% medium to high-density buildings. This concentration on denser housing options offers more accessible prices and accommodates downsizers, investors, and first-time buyers. This represents a major shift from the current residential mix (where houses stand at 32.0%), pointing to a scarcity of vacant land and adapting to modern lifestyle choices and economic constraints. The average of approximately 56 people per approval characterizes the suburb of Footscray as an expanding urban area. Demographic projections indicate the suburb of Footscray will add 14,503 residents by 2041 according to the most recent quarterly estimates from AreaSearch. Current construction volumes seem to correspond well with future demand, keeping the market balanced without generating significant upward pressure on prices.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the suburb of Footscray recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the suburb of Footscray area has seen 741 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Footscray's current population of 20,920 has been supported by 501 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the suburb of Footscray's development activity compare to the broader region?
The suburb of Footscray has seen 2.67 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.9 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 56 people in the suburb of Footscray, compared to one for every 125 in the broader region.
Is the suburb of Footscray keeping up with housing demand?
With the population expected to increase by 14,503 people by 2041, around 7,252 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels may be insufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling. This indicates potential housing shortages if current approval trends continue.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the suburb of Footscray?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Footscray's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 501, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
How many dwellings will be needed to accommodate future population growth in the suburb of Footscray?
The population in the suburb of Footscray is expected to grow by 14,503 people by 2041, necessitating approximately 7,252 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 Footscray?
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Footscray has grown by approximately 9,074 people, while 2,507 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 3.6 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 Footscray?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 501 approvals per year and a population of 20,920, there appears to be a supply shortfall relative to projected demand, presenting strong opportunities for residential developers. With the population expected to increase by 14,503 people by 2041, around 7,252 new dwellings will be necessary. Current approval trends may be insufficient to meet forecast demand, indicating strong development opportunities.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Footscray

Development applications around Footscray

Development approvals is a new addition to AreaSearch. We’re actively expanding council coverage and refining the dataset — details and statuses for some councils may be partial. Check back regularly for the latest pipeline.
Application search is not available in Victoria. AreaSearch holds 1 application for Footscray, but they are a record of past activity rather than a current register. Victoria has no state-wide planning portal and its council coverage is uneven, so we have switched the search off here rather than return partial answers. We are currently investigating a solution. No credits are charged for Victorian applications, and building approvals from the ABS and the major projects we track are unaffected.

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

Project PipelineInfrastructure & Major Projects in Footscray

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AreaSearch tracks 37 current infrastructure and development projects inside Footscray, worth an estimated $12.6 billion. A further 70 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $31.6 billion. 28 are already under construction and 35 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

Changes in infrastructure, key projects, and planning play a significant role in local performance. AreaSearch has identified 51 projects likely to influence the area. Major developments include the Footscray Station Precinct Upgrade, Joseph Road Precinct, Kinnear's Precinct (Live City), and Victoria Square by Growland, with the list below highlighting the most relevant ones.

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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Footscray?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Footscray include: Footscray Station Precinct Upgrade (Construction); Joseph Road Precinct (Construction); Kinnear's Precinct (Live City) (Approved); Victoria Square by Growland (Construction); and Riverina Apartments (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 Footscray?
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Footscray spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Transport & Logistics, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the suburb of Footscray?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates substantial capital deployment exceeding $10.3 billion in projects that will impact the extended area, with a notable concentration of investment within the immediate the suburb of Footscray vicinity.
How does the suburb of Footscray's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
The suburb of Footscray ranks in the top 10% nationally for infrastructure development, reflecting exceptional investment activity compared to similar areas across the country.
Joseph Road Precinct
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A 17-hectare urban renewal program transforming former industrial warehouse and factory land between the Maribyrnong River and the Footscray-South Kensington rail corridor into a high-density mixed-use precinct. Council planning targets around 5,000 new households once fully built out, delivered across multiple residential towers including Liberty One, River One, Riverfront, Boat House, Waterfront, Victoria Square and Cowper Residences. Stage one road works on Joseph Road North and South have reached practical completion, delivering separated bike lanes, a raised pedestrian crossing, 20 parallel parking bays, upgraded drainage with integrated tree pits, new public lighting and tree planting.Lilardia Park, a new 1,444 square metre public open space named after Aboriginal activist Margaret (Lilardia) Tucker, opened to the community in August 2024. Stage two Hopkins Street improvement works including new traffic signals at Hopkins/Hallenstein Street and Hopkins/Joseph Road remain subject to future funding and Department of Transport and Planning approvals, with $100,000 proposed in the 2025/26 Capital Expenditure Budget to progress design. The 40km/h speed limit reduction on Hopkins Street between Moore Street and Hopetoun Bridge has been delivered.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

New Footscray Hospital
Category: Health & Medical
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The largest health infrastructure project in Victoria's history, this $1.5 billion hospital replaces the original 1950s facility. It features over 500 inpatient beds, 16 operating theatres, and an emergency department capable of treating 20,000 additional patients annually. The precinct includes a 12-storey inpatient tower and integrated clinical, research, and education spaces. It was officially opened to patients on 18 February 2026, marking a significant milestone for healthcare in Melbourne's west.

Health & Medical

West Footscray Village
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A major mixed-use redevelopment of the former 501 Receptions site. The project features a 3,606sq m Woolworths supermarket, BWS bottle shop, nine specialty retail tenancies, a 110-place childcare facility, a 425sq m medical centre, commercial office space, and a gymnasium. Sustainability targets include a 4-Star Green Star rating with rainwater harvesting and solar panels. The development includes two levels of basement parking for 278 cars and upgrades to the Barkly Street and Summerhill Road intersection.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Live City
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2030
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Redevelopment of the historic Kinnears Ropeworks Factory into a vibrant mixed-use precinct. The masterplan includes up to 1,450 dwellings, a supermarket, retail laneways, commercial offices, and community services. Stage 1 (208 apartments) is complete, while Stage 2 received planning approval for 407 apartments across 5-15 storey buildings. The project features extensive heritage conservation and adaptive re-use of iconic factory structures. 3L Alliance acquired the future stages in 2025 to continue the precinct delivery.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Existing Footscray Hospital Site Redevelopment
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2029
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The 6.6-hectare site of the former Footscray Hospital is being transformed into a mixed-use precinct following the new hospital's opening in February 2026. The master plan, led by Development Victoria, focuses on creating a vibrant community hub including a 3.5-hectare municipal park (oFoHo Park), a community hub in the former Psychiatric building, and expanded childcare. Demolition and site preparation are scheduled to begin in the second half of 2026, with a mandate for a minimum of 30% social and affordable housing.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Footscray Priority Precinct
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2051
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A state-significant urban renewal initiative led by the Victorian Government to transform Footscray into a major metropolitan activity centre and the cultural and economic heart of Melbourne's inner west. Coordinated investments include the new Footscray Hospital, the Footscray Learning Precinct, Whitten Oval, and transport enhancements like the Metro Tunnel and regional rail connections. The strategic framework targets significant population growth and thousands of new local jobs, supported by structure planning and industrial zone transitions.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Kinnear's Precinct
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2030
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Mixed-use renewal of the former Kinnear's Ropeworks site in Footscray. The approved precinct plan supports more than 1,200 dwellings plus retail, commercial, supermarket, office and community uses, with conservation and adaptive reuse of heritage ropeworks buildings. Stage 1 has been completed and Stage 2 has an issued permit for 407 apartments. 3L Alliance acquired the remaining stages from R&F Property in 2025 and is progressing design work with FK, with the heritage buildings, laneways and chimney intended to anchor the next mixed-use community stage.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Ryco Precinct
Category: Communities
Stage: Dev. Approval | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Mixed-use development on the former Ryco Hydraulics site in central Footscray, comprising five buildings (3-8 storeys) with 456 apartments and ground-floor commercial uses along Whitehall and Moreland Street frontages. The scheme features 40% affordable housing delivered via a build-to-rent-to-own model by Assemble, communal rooftop terraces, east-west and north-south pedestrian links through the precinct, and 211 car parking spaces at lower ground level. Designed by Jackson Clements Burrows Architects. Listed as coming soon with completion expected early 2027.

Communities

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Footscray

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14,200 residents of Footscray are employed, from a labour force of 15,068. Unemployment sits at 5.8%, with participation at 80.1%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 6.8% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth, so in an area growing as fast as this one it understates the likely rise in local jobs. The working-day population is estimated at 23,267, about 111% of the resident population, so the area draws in more workers than it sends out. 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 suburb of Footscray possesses a highly qualified workforce with a strong concentration in professional services, an unemployment rate of 5.8%, and job growth estimated at 1.9% over the past year based on regional data compiled by AreaSearch. In March 2026, employed residents numbered 14,200, the unemployment rate stood 1.0% above the Greater Melbourne average of 4.8%, and the labor participation rate was exceptionally high at 80.1% compared to 70.2% across Greater Melbourne. Census records show that a substantial 41.2% of the workforce worked from home, although this was likely influenced by COVID-19 containment measures.

Resident employment is heavily concentrated in health care & social assistance, professional & technical, and education & training. The local economy features a notable concentration in accommodation & food, where employment is 1.5 times the regional average. In contrast, construction jobs are limited, representing 5.0% of employment compared to 9.7% across the wider region. A ratio of 0.9 workers per resident at the time of the Census indicates plenty of local employment opportunities. According to AreaSearch analysis of SALM and ABS statistics for the year ending March 2026, employment grew by 1.9% and the labor force expanded by 1.9%, which kept local unemployment steady. By comparison, Greater Melbourne recorded a 2.1% rise in employment, a 2.3% expansion in the labor force, and a 0.2 percentage point increase in unemployment. National employment forecasts from May-25 by Jobs and Skills Australia provide further context for future demand in the suburb of Footscray. These five and ten-year projections have been applied to the local workforce structure to model future growth. Nationwide employment is projected to grow by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, though rates vary by industry. Projecting these trends onto the suburb of Footscray's current employment profile suggests local job numbers will rise by 6.8% over five years and 13.8% over ten years (note that this is an illustrative weighting extrapolation and does not incorporate local population forecasts).

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the suburb of Footscray?
As of March 2026, the suburb of Footscray has approximately 14,200 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 5.8%. 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 Footscray's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Footscray stands at 5.8%, which is 1.0 percentage points above Greater Melbourne's rate of 4.8%. 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 Footscray?
The employment landscape in the suburb of Footscray is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (13.4% of employment), professional & technical (12.1%), and education & training (10.0%). Other significant employers include accommodation & food and retail trade.
How has employment changed recently in the suburb of Footscray?
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Footscray has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fall. By comparison, Greater Melbourne saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
What is the workforce participation rate in the suburb of Footscray?
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Footscray is 80.1%, 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 Greater Melbourne average of 70.2%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
Which industries are over-represented in the suburb of Footscray's employment market?
The suburb of footscray shows notable specialization in accommodation & food, which employs 9.4% of the local workforce compared to 6.4% regionally. This moderate specialization indicates some local strength in the sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
What are the employment growth prospects for the suburb of Footscray?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the suburb of Footscray's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 6.8% over the next five years and 13.8% over ten years. This exceeds the national forecast of 6.6% over five years, suggesting the area's industry composition is well-positioned for future growth. Steady growth is anticipated across multiple sectors, providing diverse employment opportunities.
How does the job market in the suburb of Footscray compare nationally?
The suburb of footscray'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 8.9% decline, ranking 34.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the suburb of Footscray?
Skilled workers will find excellent opportunities in the suburb of Footscray, with knowledge-intensive sectors comprising 43.8% of local employment. Key sectors for skilled workers include health care & social assistance (13.4%), professional & technical (12.1%), and education & training (10.0%). With projected employment growth of 6.8% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Footscray

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Median household income in Footscray is $1,763 a week (about $92,000 a year), with median personal income at $916 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $54,151 a year against an average of $66,186. 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 ATO statistics compiled by AreaSearch for the 2023 financial year, average incomes in the suburb of Footscray are slightly lower than the national average. Taxpayers in the suburb of Footscray recorded a median income of $54,151 and an average income of $66,186, compared to Greater Melbourne averages of $57,688 and $75,164. Adjusting for a 9.62% increase in the Wage Price Index since the 2023 financial year, current estimates point to a median income of approximately $59,360 and an average income of $72,553 as of March 2026. Census data shows personal incomes in the 69th percentile ($916 weekly), with household incomes at the 51st percentile.

Regarding income brackets, 34.3% of residents (7,175 people) earn between $1,500 - 2,999, mirroring the regional trend of 32.8% in this bracket. Affordability pressures are high, with only 81.4% of income remaining after housing costs, placing the area in the 48th percentile, while the SEIFA index ranks the suburb of Footscray in the 6th decile.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the suburb of Footscray?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Footscray is approximately $59,360. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $54,151.
What is the average taxable income in the suburb of Footscray?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Footscray is approximately $72,553. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $66,186.
How does the median taxable income in the suburb of Footscray compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Footscray is approximately $59,360 compared to $63,238 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $54,151 and $57,688 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the suburb of Footscray compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Footscray is approximately $72,553 compared to $82,395 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $66,186 and $75,164 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the suburb of Footscray according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~34.3% / 7,175 persons) of the suburb of Footscray's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the suburb of Footscray compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the suburb of Footscray is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 34.3% of the population. In comparison, Greater Melbourne's largest income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 32.8% of its population, according to the 2021 Census.
What is the median household income in the suburb of Footscray according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Footscray is $1,763/wk.
What is the median family income in the suburb of Footscray according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Footscray is $2,296/wk.
What is the median personal income in the suburb of Footscray according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Footscray is $916/wk.
How does the suburb of Footscray's income rank nationally?
As per AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-23, the suburb of Footscray's median income among taxpayers is $54,151, with an average of $66,186. This is slightly lower than average on a national basis, and compares to Greater Melbourne's median of $57,688 and average of $75,164. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 9.62% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $59,360 (median) and $72,553 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the suburb of Footscray?
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Footscray is $6,216 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the suburb of Footscray's disposable income compare to the region?
The suburb of footscray's disposable income is $6,216 compared to $6,948 for Greater Melbourne, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Footscray

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Footscray had 7,370 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 32% detached houses and 52% apartments. 28% are owned with a mortgage, 58% rented and 15% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $355 a week and the median mortgage repayment $1,940 a month, a total housing cost higher than 75% of areas nationally. Rent absorbs 20.1% of household income here and mortgage repayments 25.4%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

The housing mix in the suburb of Footscray at the last Census consisted of 31.6% houses and 68.4% semi-detached dwellings, apartments, or other structures, contrasting with Greater Melbourne where houses made up 67.9% and other dwellings 32.1%. Home ownership rates in the suburb of Footscray lagged behind the metropolitan average at 14.7%, with the remaining properties occupied by mortgagors (27.7%) or tenants (57.6%). The median monthly mortgage payment of $1,940 was lower than the Melbourne metropolitan average of $2,000, and the median weekly rent was $355 compared to the metropolitan average of $390.

On a national level, the suburb of Footscray's mortgage repayments exceed the Australian average of $1,863, while rent costs remain below the national average of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the suburb of Footscray?
In the suburb of Footscray, 14.7% of homes are owned outright, 27.7% are owned with a mortgage, and 57.6% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the suburb of Footscray are houses?
According to the latest data, 31.6% of dwellings in the suburb of Footscray are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the suburb of Footscray are apartments or units?
In the suburb of Footscray, 52.4% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 15.3% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the suburb of Footscray?
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Footscray stands at 14.7%, compared to 30.7% in Greater Melbourne.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Footscray?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Footscray is $1,940, compared to $2,000 in Greater Melbourne.
What is the median weekly rent in the suburb of Footscray?
The median weekly rent in the suburb of Footscray is $355, compared to $390 in Greater Melbourne.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the suburb of Footscray?
In the suburb of Footscray, 7.7% of rentals are $0-149/week, 38.0% are $150-349/week, 51.6% are $350-649/week, 2.1% are $650-949/week, and 0.6% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the suburb of Footscray?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Footscray is $1,423, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the suburb of Footscray?
In the suburb of Footscray, households with mortgages typically spend 25.4% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 20.1% of their income on rent.
How crowded are homes in the suburb of Footscray?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Footscray is 1.0, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the suburb of Footscray compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the suburb of Footscray shows mortgage holders spending 25.4% of income on repayments (vs 24.3% regionally), while renters spend 20.1% of income on rent (vs 20.5% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the suburb of Footscray?
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Footscray consists of 31.6% detached houses, 15.3% semi-detached dwellings, 52.4% apartments, and 0.7% other dwelling types.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the suburb of Footscray?
Accounting for the local ownership mix, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $1,423. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $1,940/month, and renters paying $1,537/month.
How affordable is housing in the suburb of Footscray relative to local incomes?
Housing in Footscray consumes approximately 18.6% of median household income ($7,634 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 Footscray?
Recent development applications in Footscray show attached dwellings contributing 98% of approvals compared to 68% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 2% of applications versus 32% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Footscray is experiencing exceptional growth in housing density, ranking in the top 10% nationally.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Footscray

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Footscray counted 7,370 households at the 2021 Census, an estimated 9,000 today, averaging 2.1 people each. 16% are couples with children, fewer than in 93% of areas nationally, against 26% couples without children. 38% of households are people living alone, and families average 0.8 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Families make up 52.1% of households, consisting of couples with children at 15.9%, couples without children at 25.9%, and single parents at 8.0%. Non-family households account for the remaining 47.9%, with lone person households at 37.6% and group households representing 10.3%. The median household size of 2.1 persons is smaller than the Greater Melbourne average of 2.6.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the suburb of Footscray?
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Footscray had 7,370 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 22.1% to an estimated 9,000 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median household size in the suburb of Footscray is 2.1 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Melbourne and reflects the area's household composition mix.
What types of households are most common?
Family households dominate at 52.1% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (37.6%), group households (10.3%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 3,839 family households, 15.9% are couples with children, 25.9% are couples without children at home, and 8.0% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the suburb of Footscray compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Greater Melbourne, the suburb of Footscray shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 37.6% (versus 24.8% regionally). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 52.1% compared to the regional 70.9%. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
What is the average family size?
Families in the suburb of Footscray have an average of 0.8 children, slightly below the Greater Melbourne average of 1.4. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
What are the marriage patterns in the suburb of Footscray?
Marriage patterns reveal 28.7% of the adult population are currently married, while 56.5% have never married. This compares to 47.0% married and 38.0% never married across Greater Melbourne.
How significant are single-person households?
Single-person households represent 37.6% of all households in the suburb of Footscray, higher than the regional average of 24.8%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Are shared living arrangements common?
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 10.3% of households, well below the Greater Melbourne average of 4.3%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
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EducationSchools & Education in Footscray

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50.6% of adults in Footscray hold a university qualification, including 30.8% with a bachelor degree and 15.2% with postgraduate qualifications, higher than 86% of areas nationally. A further 11.7% hold a vocational qualification. 10 schools serve the area, with 3,140 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 1,098 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 qualifications in the suburb of Footscray are high, with 50.6% of residents aged 15+ holding a university degree, compared to 30.4% nationally and 33.4% across Victoria. This educational profile positions the suburb of Footscray well for knowledge-intensive sectors. Bachelor degrees are held by 30.8% of residents, followed by postgraduate degrees (15.2%) and graduate diplomas (4.6%). Vocational training is held by 21.7% of residents aged 15+, consisting of advanced diplomas (10.0%) and certificate level training (11.7%). Participation in study is high, with 31.0% of the population enrolled in education. This includes 13.0% attending tertiary institutions, 5.3% in primary school, and 3.2% in secondary school.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the suburb of Footscray have university qualifications?
50.6% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Footscray have university qualifications, compared to 37.0% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the suburb of Footscray have no formal qualifications?
27.7% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Footscray have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.2% regionally.
How does the suburb of Footscray's education level compare to national averages?
The suburb of footscray ranks in the 86th 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 Footscray?
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Footscray are: Bachelor Degree (30.8%), Postgraduate (15.2%), Certificate (11.7%).
What proportion of the suburb of Footscray's population is currently attending educational institutions?
31.0% of the population in the suburb of Footscray is currently engaged in formal education, with 5.3% in primary school, 3.2% in secondary school, 13.0% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the suburb of Footscray?
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Footscray is 1098, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
How many schools are located within the suburb of Footscray?
There are 10 schools within the suburb of Footscray, with a combined enrollment of approximately 3,140 students.
What types of schools are available in the suburb of Footscray?
The suburb of footscray includes 5 primary schools, 4 secondary schools, 1 combined school.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Footscray

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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Footscray

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Public transport in Footscray reaches 126 stops on 30 routes, timetabled for about 16,200 services a week. The typical home sits about 130 m from its nearest stop. Buses carry the largest share of public transport commuters. Households keep an average of 0.5 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

An analysis of public transport shows 126 active stops in the suburb of Footscray, including train, light rail, and bus services. These stops are served by 30 routes, which support 16,207 weekly passenger trips. Transport accessibility is high, with residents living an average of 132 meters from their nearest stop. Because it is a residential area, most workers commute out of the suburb, with private cars being the primary mode of transport at 54%, trains at 24%, and buses at 7%. Vehicle ownership stands at 0.5 cars per household, below the metropolitan average.

A significant 41.2% of residents worked from home, according to the 2021 Census, which may reflect pandemic-era conditions. Services average 2,315 trips daily across all routes, translating to roughly 128 weekly trips per stop. The corresponding map highlights the 100 closest stops to the central point.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Footscray?
There are 126 public transport stops within the suburb of Footscray.
How frequent are the transport services in Footscray?
the suburb of Footscray has 16,207 weekly trips across 30 routes, averaging 2,315 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Footscray?
On average, residential properties are 132 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Footscray

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70.0% of residents in Footscray report no long-term health condition. 6.4% need daily assistance with core activities, and 53.0% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 5.4 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Health assessments by AreaSearch based on mortality rates and chronic disease prevalence indicate below-average outcomes in the suburb of Footscray, although common illnesses in the general population are typical, with higher rates among older groups. Private health insurance coverage is slightly higher than the average SA2 region, covering approximately 53% of the population (~11,089 people), compared to 56.7% across Greater Melbourne. Mental health conditions and asthma are the most common medical issues, affecting 12.2% and 8.1% of residents. Meanwhile, 70.0% of residents reported having no chronic medical conditions, compared to 72.6% in Greater Melbourne.

Health profiles for working-age residents are typical. Residents aged 65 and older make up 10.0% of the population (2,092 people), lower than the 15.0% average for Greater Melbourne. Senior health outcomes present challenges, though they rank better nationally than the area's broader health metrics.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the suburb of Footscray have private health insurance?
Around 53.0% of people in the suburb of Footscray are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 56.7% in the broader region of Greater Melbourne.
What percentage of the population requires ongoing medical assistance in the suburb of Footscray?
In the suburb of Footscray, 6.4% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 5.5% of people in Greater Melbourne require similar assistance.
How prevalent is asthma in the suburb of Footscray?
8.1% of people in the suburb of Footscray are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.3% of the population across Greater Melbourne is affected by asthma.
What percentage of people have diabetes in the suburb of Footscray?
Diabetes affects 3.4% of the the suburb of Footscray population, while in the surrounding region, 4.1% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
What is the percentage of people with heart disease in the suburb of Footscray?
2.1% of people in the suburb of Footscray have heart disease. Across the region of Greater Melbourne, 3.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the suburb of Footscray compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the suburb of Footscray, 53.0% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Melbourne sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 56.7%.

Ancestry & LanguageCultural Diversity in Footscray

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45.0% of Footscray residents were born overseas and 42.2% speak a language other than English at home, more culturally diverse than 86% of areas nationally. The largest reported ancestries are English (18.0%) and Australian (14.8%). Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

The suburb of Footscray displays significant cultural diversity, with 42.2% of residents speaking a non-English language at home and 45.0% born outside of Australia. Christianity is the most common religious affiliation, representing 27.2% of the population. Buddhism shows a significant local concentration at 9.2% of the population, compared to 4.2% across Greater Melbourne. Regarding parental ancestry, the three largest groups in the suburb of Footscray are English at 18.0%, Other at 16.0%, and Australian at 14.8%. There are also notable differences in other ethnic communities, with Vietnamese residents comprising 8.0% of the suburb of Footscray (compared to 1.9% regionally), Spanish at 0.7% (compared to 0.4%), and Macedonian at 0.7% (compared to 0.7%).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the suburb of Footscray?
Footscray scores quite highly on cultural diversity, with 42.2% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 45.0% born overseas.
What is the most common religion in the suburb of Footscray?
The main religion in Footscray was found to be Christianity, which makes up 27.2% of people in Footscray. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 9.2% of the population, compared to 4.2% across Greater Melbourne.
What are the top countries of origin in the suburb of Footscray?
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Footscray are English, comprising 18.0% of the population, Other, comprising 16.0% of the population, and Australian, comprising 14.8% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Vietnamese is notably overrepresented at 8.0% of Footscray (vs 1.9% regionally), Spanish at 0.7% (vs 0.4%) and Macedonian at 0.7% (vs 0.7%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
45.0% of the the suburb of Footscray population was born overseas, compared to 37.3% regionally.
What percentage of the the suburb of Footscray population speaks a language other than English at home?
42.2% of the population in the suburb of Footscray speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 35.9% in the wider region.
How many people in the suburb of Footscray identify as Australian Aboriginal?
0.6% of the the suburb of Footscray population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 0.5% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the suburb of Footscray?
71.7% of the the suburb of Footscray population holds citizenship, compared to 81.1% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Footscray

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The median resident of Footscray is 34, younger than 82% of areas nationally. 42.2% 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

The median age in the suburb of Footscray is 34 years, which is lower than the Greater Melbourne average of 37 and younger than the Australian average of 38 years. Compared to Greater Melbourne, the suburb of Footscray has a larger share of residents aged 25 - 34 (29.7%) but fewer aged 5 - 14 (5.8%). The concentration of residents aged 25 - 34 is higher than the national figure of 14.6%. Since the 2021 Census, the 35 to 44 cohort has increased from 18.4% to 20.5%, and the 15 to 24 cohort rose from 11.0% to 12.5%, whereas the 55 to 64 group decreased from 8.4% to 7.4%.

Demographic forecasts for 2041 project that the 25 to 34 cohort will see the largest expansion, growing by 54% to add 3,383 residents and reach 9,597.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the suburb of Footscray?
According to the latest data, the median age in the suburb of Footscray is 34 years.
How does the suburb of Footscray's median age compare to broader areas?
At 34 years, Footscray is 3 years younger than the Greater Melbourne average (37 years) and 4 years younger than the national average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the suburb of Footscray?
The most over-represented age group in the suburb of Footscray compared to the Greater Melbourne region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 29.7% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the suburb of Footscray?
The most under-represented age group in the suburb of Footscray compared to the Greater Melbourne region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 5.8% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Footscray show significant variance compared to the Greater Melbourne region. The most over-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (29.7% vs 16.5%). The most under-represented age groups are 5-14 year-olds (5.8% vs 11.9%) and 75-84 year-olds (2.8% vs 5.1%).
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the suburb of Footscray?
The percentage of children aged 0-14 years in the suburb of Footscray is 10.2%.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the suburb of Footscray?
The percentage of people aged 65 and over in the suburb of Footscray is 10.0%.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Footscray

Data currency Refreshed

9 of 14 data sections on this page were updated within the last 12 months — the newest current to Aug 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) May 2026 3 months ago 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 May 2026, with the 2021 Census supplying the small-area baseline.
Age profile ABS, Geoscience Australia, State governments Annual May 2026 3 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Age cohorts are re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections, current to May 2026. Each cohort is held as a Census baseline and a current estimate.
Development & approvals ABS, GNAF Monthly (ABS approvals) Jun 2026 2 months ago headline measures · May 2026 baseline
Property sales & rents Valuer General, Rental Board, ABS Weekly sales, quarterly rents Aug 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 Aug 2026.
Infrastructure projects Infrastructure Australia, State agencies, Local governments Daily Aug 2026 this month all 37 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 Aug 2026.
Employment ABS, DEWR, JSA Quarterly (ABS SALM) Mar 2026 5 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 this month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Transport ABS, State Transport Departments Each timetable release Jul 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Services & amenities Provider directories, ACECQA Continuous Jul 2026 last month 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 — 1,937 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for May 2026, not a 2021 count (17,131 at the 2021 Census → 20,920 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 May 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 (SAL20935). 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 Footscray 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 Footscray 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 Footscray 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 (Jun 2026), property sales & rents (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Aug 2026) and services & amenities (Jul 2026). Built on a Census baseline but carrying newer measures on top: population (to May 2026), age profile (to May 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