Forest Lake

Suburb (SAL)

Greater Brisbane / Forest Lake - Oxley

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Data Sources ABSValuer GeneralRental BoardACARA Newest Aug 2026 · Refreshed ABS QuickStats SAL31064 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 Forest Lake

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DemographicsPopulation Growth in Forest Lake

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Forest Lake has an estimated 23,938 residents, up from 22,676 at the 2021 Census — a change of 1,262 people, or 5.6%. Growth has averaged 0.5% a year over five years. 102 new addresses have been validated here since Census night. Overseas migration accounts for 62.0% of that increase. That puts 2,448 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 investigations of ABS demographic releases covering the surrounding region, alongside new addresses verified by AreaSearch following the Census, the population of the suburb of Forest Lake is calculated to stand at roughly 23,938 as of May 2026. This represents an addition of 1,262 people (5.6%) from the 2021 Census, which documented a population of 22,676 people. The dynamic is calculated based on a resident population of 23,904, estimated by AreaSearch using the most recent ABS ERP release (June 2025) plus 102 verified new addresses registered post-Census. Such a population count translates to a density of 2,447 persons per square kilometer, placing the locality in the top quarter of Australian locations analyzed by AreaSearch.

In recent times, growth in the local population was heavily supported by overseas arrivals, who made up approximately 62.0% of the overall population expansion. AreaSearch incorporates ABS and Geoscience Australia demographic projections for each SA2 district, published in 2024 with a 2022 baseline. For SA2 regions lacking these forecasts, or for periods past 2032, projections from the Queensland State Government released in 2023 utilizing 2021 data are substituted. Since these state-level forecasts omit detailed age brackets, AreaSearch allocates cohort growth fractions matching the ABS Greater Capital Region projections (published in 2023, baseline 2022) for each age group. Looking ahead, demographic modeling suggests a population trajectory tracking slightly under the national median, with the suburb of Forest Lake projected to add 2,430 residents by 2041 based on compiled SA2 projections, representing an overall expansion of 10.0% over the 16 years.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the suburb of Forest Lake?
Total population for the suburb of Forest Lake was estimated to be approximately 23,938 as at May 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 23,904 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the suburb of Forest Lake changed since 2021?
The suburb of forest lake has added approximately 1,262 people and shown a 5.57% increase from the 22,676 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the suburb of Forest Lake?
The population density in the suburb of Forest Lake is estimated at 2,447 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 Forest Lake?
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Forest Lake has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.1% per annum.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the suburb of Forest Lake?
Population growth in the suburb of Forest Lake is driven by: Overseas migration (62.0%), Natural increase (38.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 62.0% of overall population gains.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Forest Lake

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122 new dwellings have been approved in Forest Lake over the past five years, an average of 24 a year. That is 1.1 approvals per 1,000 residents. Of the 29 dwellings approved in the latest reporting year, 52% were detached houses and the rest townhouses or apartments. Approvals are currently running at an annualised 5, 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 by AreaSearch of ABS building permit statistics allocated from regional databases indicates that the suburb of Forest Lake has averaged approximately 24 new residential permits per year, amounting to an estimated 122 dwellings over the preceding 5 financial years. Thus far during FY-26, 5 permits have been documented. With an average of 5.1 residents relocating to the locality for every completed dwelling over the past 5 financial years (from FY-21 to FY-25), demand is outstripping supply by a wide margin, which commonly exerts upward pressure on values and intensifies homebuyer competition, while newly constructed properties show a mean value of $487,000, indicating developers are focusing on the higher-end market segment with premium stock.

Additionally, commercial building approvals have reached $2.2 million this financial year, highlighting the predominantly residential character of the locality. Recent building activity is divided between 52.0% standalone houses and 48.0% medium and high-density options, showing a growing diversity of attached dwellings to provide choices across various price points, from large family residences to more affordable smaller units. This marks a notable shift from the established housing stock (which currently stands at 95.0% houses), driven by a scarcity of vacant land and changing lifestyle and budget requirements. Recording roughly 2816 people per permit, the suburb of Forest Lake displays characteristics typical of a mature and settled community. Demographic projections indicate the suburb of Forest Lake will add 2,396 residents by 2041 (starting from the most recent AreaSearch quarterly calculations). If current construction volumes persist, residential supply may fail to match population expansion, which could heighten buyer competition and reinforce upward pressure on values.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the suburb of Forest Lake recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the suburb of Forest Lake area has seen 17 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Forest Lake's current population of 23,938 has been supported by 24 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the suburb of Forest Lake's development activity compare to the broader region?
The suburb of Forest Lake has seen 0.11 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.79 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 2816 people in the suburb of Forest Lake, compared to one for every 143 in the broader region.
Is the suburb of Forest Lake keeping up with housing demand?
With the population expected to increase by 2,396 people by 2041, around 1,198 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 Forest Lake?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Forest Lake's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 24, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
How many dwellings will be needed to accommodate future population growth in the suburb of Forest Lake?
The population in the suburb of Forest Lake is expected to grow by 2,396 people by 2041, necessitating approximately 1,198 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 Forest Lake?
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Forest Lake has grown by approximately 2,755 people, while 122 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 22.6 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 Forest Lake?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 24 approvals per year and a population of 23,938, there appears to be a supply shortfall relative to projected demand, presenting strong opportunities for residential developers. With the population expected to increase by 2,396 people by 2041, around 1,198 new dwellings will be necessary. Current approval trends may be insufficient to meet forecast demand, indicating strong development opportunities.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Forest Lake

Development applications around Forest Lake

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.
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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 Forest Lake

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AreaSearch tracks 12 current infrastructure and development projects inside Forest Lake, worth an estimated $307 million. A further 49 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $157.9 billion. 15 are already under construction and 15 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans residential development, retail and transport & logistics. 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

Local performance is heavily shaped by revisions to neighborhood infrastructure, major developments, and urban planning changes. AreaSearch has identified a total of 20 projects expected to influence the community. Prominent developments include Golden Grove Estate, Acacia Doolandella, Pallara Development Project (78-88 Vied Road), and the Forest Lake Shopping Centre ALDI Extension, with the accompanying directory detailing the most significant undertakings.

Professional plan users can use the search below to filter and access additional projects.

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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Forest Lake?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Forest Lake include: Golden Grove Estate (Construction); Acacia Doolandella (Construction); Pallara Development Project (78-88 Vied Road) (Approved); Forest Lake Shopping Centre ALDI Extension (Planning); and 31 Woodvale Crescent Residential Development Site (Planning). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the suburb of Forest Lake?
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Forest Lake spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Retail, and Manufacturing, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the suburb of Forest Lake?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates significant investment of approximately $864 million in infrastructure projects affecting the region, with a notable concentration of investment within the immediate the suburb of Forest Lake vicinity.
How does the suburb of Forest Lake's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
The suburb of Forest Lake ranks in the top 10% nationally for infrastructure development, reflecting exceptional investment activity compared to similar areas across the country.
Acacia Doolandella
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   

Acacia Doolandella is a boutique Ausbuild house and land estate in Brisbane's south, delivering 23 premium homesites within an established, quiet neighbourhood close to schools, parks, retail and major transport routes. The community focuses on low rise detached housing with a mix of lot sizes and contemporary family homes.

Residential Development

Woodvale Village
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   

Woodvale Village is a $100 million masterplanned community in Forest Lake delivering 151 new homes, including 3- and 4-bedroom turnkey house and land packages. Fast-tracked as a State Facilitated Development (SFD), it requires a minimum 15% affordable housing allocation. Construction has commenced, with first residents expected by mid-2027.

Residential Development

Golden Grove Estate
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   

Golden Grove Estate is a 98 dwelling townhouse community at 73 Redhead Street, Doolandella, delivering three and four bedroom homes next to more than 1 hectare of parkland about 25 minutes from Brisbane CBD. Stages 1 to 5 are now complete and sold out, with the final Stage 6 townhomes under construction and expected to settle by 2027.

Residential Development

Forest Lake Shopping Centre ALDI Extension
Category: Retail
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Expansion of existing ALDI tenancy and addition of four new specialty retail tenancies at Forest Lake Shopping Centre. 1,089sqm gross floor area increase including drop off lane and outdoor pedestrian space upgrades. The shopping centre serves as major retail hub for southwest Brisbane with Woolworths, Coles, ALDI, and Kmart anchoring 70 specialty stores. QIC Real Estate manages the shopping centre development.

Retail

31 Woodvale Crescent Residential Development Site
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2029
Source / Links: Link 1   

1.013 hectare residential development site in Forest Lake offered for sale. The site sits within an established suburb about 25km south west of Brisbane CBD and has an 88m frontage to Woodvale Crescent. Adjoining properties at 40-60 Woodvale Crescent and 205A Woogaroo Street were declared State Facilitated Development (SFD) on 30 September 2024 with a minimum 15 percent affordable housing component and an indicative minimum density of 25 dwellings per net developable hectare. While 31 Woodvale Crescent is not part of that declared SFD area, the listing markets its proximity to that precinct and its potential for similar residential yields, subject to approvals.

Residential Development

Forest Lake Three Co-Living Houses Development
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Construction of three 5-bedroom co-living houses in Forest Lake suburb. 15-month completion timeline from settlement. Part of addressing Brisbane's housing demand in the family-friendly Forest Lake community with central lake and recreational facilities.

Residential Development

Woolworths Doolandella
Category: Retail
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2025
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Completed neighbourhood shopping centre anchored by a full line Woolworths supermarket and BWS liquor store, with direct to boot pickup and a small mix of specialty shops serving Doolandella and surrounding suburbs. The centre opened in 2025 on the corner of Blunder Road and Crossacres Street and was developed by Woolworths Group with Hutchinson Builders as the main contractor.

Retail

Brookside Convenience Hub
Category: Retail
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2019
Source / Links: Link 1   

A completed local convenience retail hub at the corner of Blunder Road and Brookside Street in Doolandella, anchored by a McDonalds restaurant and 7-Eleven service station, with multiple food and drink tenancies and on-site parking serving the surrounding residential estates.

Retail

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Forest Lake

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13,707 residents of Forest Lake are employed, from a labour force of 14,021. Unemployment sits at 2.2%, with participation at 72.0%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 6.3% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth. The working-day population is estimated at 18,626, about 78% 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 suburb of Forest Lake has an educated workforce with strong representation in critical services, a jobless rate of only 2.2%, and an estimated 9.3% rise in employment over the preceding year, compiled by AreaSearch from regional statistics. As of March 2026, there are 13,707 employed locals, with the unemployment rate tracking 2.1% lower than the Greater Brisbane rate of 4.3%, and labor participation matching the Greater Brisbane level of 70.4%. Census records show a moderate 17.2% of working residents performed their jobs from home, although Covid-19 restrictions during that period should be kept in mind.

The primary sectors employing local residents are health care & social assistance, retail trade, and education & training. The locality has a distinct concentration in manufacturing, where employment is 1.5 times higher than the regional baseline. Conversely, construction has a minor footprint, accounting for 6.0% of local jobs compared to 9.0% across the region. This highly residential area appears to provide few local jobs, as shown by comparing the count of active workers living in the area to the working population present during the Census. Based on AreaSearch calculations of SALM and ABS statistics aggregated from regional areas, the year leading up to March 2026 saw employment expand by 9.3% and the labor force rise by 8.6%, leading to a decrease of 0.7 percentage points in the jobless rate. This stands in contrast to Greater Brisbane, which recorded a 3.2% rise in employment, a 3.4% expansion in the labor force, and a 0.1 percentage point increase in unemployment. Future local demand patterns can be further understood by referencing national employment projections published by Jobs and Skills Australia in May-25. These five and ten-year forecasts have been applied to the local workforce structure to model growth. Although national employment is projected to grow by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, the rate of change varies widely by sector. Applying these industry weightings to the occupational profile of the suburb of Forest Lake suggests local employment should rise by 6.3% over five years and 13.4% over ten years (note this is a basic weighted extrapolation for demonstration purposes and does not incorporate local population forecasts).

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the suburb of Forest Lake?
As of March 2026, the suburb of Forest Lake has approximately 13,707 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.2%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. The area ranks in the top 25% nationally for employment performance, indicating a robust job market.
How does the suburb of Forest Lake's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Forest Lake stands at 2.2%, which is 2.1 percentage points below Greater Brisbane's rate of 4.3%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
What are the major employment sectors in the suburb of Forest Lake?
The employment landscape in the suburb of Forest Lake is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (16.2% of employment), retail trade (10.6%), and education & training (9.7%). Other significant employers include manufacturing and public administration & safety.
How has employment changed recently in the suburb of Forest Lake?
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Forest Lake has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fall. By comparison, Greater Brisbane saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
What is the workforce participation rate in the suburb of Forest Lake?
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Forest Lake is 72.0%, 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 Brisbane average of 70.4%, showing similar workforce dynamics to the broader region.
Which industries are over-represented in the suburb of Forest Lake's employment market?
The suburb of forest lake shows notable specialization in manufacturing, which employs 9.5% of the local workforce compared to 6.4% regionally. This moderate specialization indicates some local strength in the sector.
What are the employment growth prospects for the suburb of Forest Lake?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the suburb of Forest Lake's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 6.3% over the next five years and 13.4% 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 Forest Lake compare nationally?
The suburb of forest lake's employment market shows strong performance nationally, ranking in the top 25% of areas assessed by AreaSearch. This indicates robust employment conditions and economic vitality compared to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 4.6% decline, ranking 28.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the suburb of Forest Lake?
Skilled workers will find good opportunities in the suburb of Forest Lake, with skilled sectors accounting for 37.0% of employment. Key sectors for skilled workers include health care & social assistance (16.2%), education & training (9.7%), and professional & technical (7.1%). With projected employment growth of 6.3% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Forest Lake

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Median household income in Forest Lake is $1,921 a week (about $100,000 a year), with median personal income at $801 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $51,598 a year against an average of $58,191. 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

The latest postcode-level ATO statistics compiled by AreaSearch for financial year 2023 show that household earnings in the suburb of Forest Lake track below the national average, with a median of $51,598 and an average of $58,191. This is lower than the Greater Brisbane median of $58,236 and average of $72,799. Adjusting for a Wage Price Index rise of 11.36% since financial year 2023, current figures are estimated at roughly $57,460 for the median and $64,801 for the average as of March 2026. According to the 2021 Census, household, family, and individual earnings in the suburb of Forest Lake sit around the 54th percentile nationally.

Looking at income distributions, 38.5% of residents (9,216 individuals) earn within the $1,500 - 2,999 range, which is comparable to the wider region where this bracket accounts for 33.3% of the population. Discretionary funds remaining after housing costs stand at 84.9% of income, and the area is positioned in the 5th decile of the national SEIFA income index.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the suburb of Forest Lake?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Forest Lake is approximately $57,460. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $51,598.
What is the average taxable income in the suburb of Forest Lake?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Forest Lake is approximately $64,801. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $58,191.
How does the median taxable income in the suburb of Forest Lake compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Forest Lake is approximately $57,460 compared to $64,852 in Greater Brisbane. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $51,598 and $58,236 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the suburb of Forest Lake compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Forest Lake is approximately $64,801 compared to $81,069 in Greater Brisbane. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $58,191 and $72,799 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the suburb of Forest Lake according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~38.5% / 9,216 persons) of the suburb of Forest Lake's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the suburb of Forest Lake compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the suburb of Forest Lake is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 38.5% of the population. In comparison, Greater Brisbane's largest income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 33.3% of its population, according to the 2021 Census.
What is the median household income in the suburb of Forest Lake according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Forest Lake is $1,921/wk.
What is the median family income in the suburb of Forest Lake according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Forest Lake is $2,140/wk.
What is the median personal income in the suburb of Forest Lake according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Forest Lake is $801/wk.
How does the suburb of Forest Lake's income rank nationally?
The suburb of Forest Lake's income level is lower than average on a national basis according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-23. The suburb of Forest Lake's median income among taxpayers is $51,598 and the average income stands at $58,191, which compares to figures for Greater Brisbane's of $58,236 and $72,799 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 11.36% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $57,460 (median) and $64,801 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the suburb of Forest Lake?
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Forest Lake is $7,064 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the suburb of Forest Lake's disposable income compare to the region?
The suburb of forest lake's disposable income is $7,064 compared to $6,725 for Greater Brisbane, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Forest Lake

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Forest Lake had 7,731 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 95% detached houses and 2% apartments. 48% are owned with a mortgage, 27% rented and 25% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $390 a week and the median mortgage repayment $1,690 a month. Rent absorbs 20.3% of household income here and mortgage repayments 20.3%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

Residential property types in the suburb of Forest Lake at the most recent Census consisted of 94.9% houses and 5.0% alternative dwellings (townhouses, flats, and other configurations), whereas the wider Brisbane metro area recorded 73.5% houses and 26.5% alternative dwellings. The rate of home ownership in the suburb of Forest Lake was slightly below the Brisbane metro level, standing at 25.3%, while the remaining homes were occupied by mortgage holders (48.0%) or tenants (26.6%). The median monthly home loan payment of $1,690 was lower than the Brisbane metro median of $1,863, while the median weekly rent of $390 was higher than the Brisbane metro median of $380.

Compared nationally, mortgage payments in the suburb of Forest Lake are below the Australian median of $1,863, whereas rental prices exceed the national figure of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the suburb of Forest Lake?
In the suburb of Forest Lake, 25.3% of homes are owned outright, 48.0% are owned with a mortgage, and 26.6% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the suburb of Forest Lake are houses?
According to the latest data, 94.9% of dwellings in the suburb of Forest Lake are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the suburb of Forest Lake are apartments or units?
In the suburb of Forest Lake, 1.6% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 3.4% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the suburb of Forest Lake?
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Forest Lake stands at 25.3%, compared to 26.7% in Greater Brisbane.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Forest Lake?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Forest Lake is $1,690, compared to $1,863 in Greater Brisbane.
What is the median weekly rent in the suburb of Forest Lake?
The median weekly rent in the suburb of Forest Lake is $390, compared to $380 in Greater Brisbane.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the suburb of Forest Lake?
In the suburb of Forest Lake, 2.2% of rentals are $0-149/week, 18.1% are $150-349/week, 78.7% are $350-649/week, 0.8% are $650-949/week, and 0.2% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the suburb of Forest Lake?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Forest Lake is $1,260, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the suburb of Forest Lake?
In the suburb of Forest Lake, households with mortgages typically spend 20.3% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 20.3% of their income on rent.
How crowded are homes in the suburb of Forest Lake?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Forest Lake is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the suburb of Forest Lake compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the suburb of Forest Lake shows mortgage holders spending 20.3% of income on repayments (vs 23.3% regionally), while renters spend 20.3% of income on rent (vs 20.6% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the suburb of Forest Lake?
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Forest Lake consists of 94.9% detached houses, 3.4% semi-detached dwellings, 1.6% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the suburb of Forest Lake?
Accounting for the local ownership mix, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $1,260. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $1,690/month, and renters paying $1,689/month.
How affordable is housing in the suburb of Forest Lake relative to local incomes?
Housing in Forest Lake consumes approximately 15.2% of median household income ($8,318 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 Forest Lake?
Recent development applications in Forest Lake show attached dwellings contributing 0% of approvals compared to 5% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 100% of applications versus 95% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Housing density growth is around the national average.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Forest Lake

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Forest Lake counted 7,731 households at the 2021 Census, an estimated 8,161 today, averaging 2.8 people each. 40% are couples with children, more than in 78% of areas nationally, against 24% couples without children. 19% of households are people living alone, and families average 1.6 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Family units constitute the vast majority of households at 78.6%, consisting of couples with children (39.6%), couples without children (24.0%), and single parent households (13.8%). Non-family living arrangements account for the remaining 21.4% of homes, which is mostly comprised of single-person households at 19.2% and share-houses at 2.2%. The typical household occupancy of 2.8 people is higher than the Greater Brisbane average of 2.6.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the suburb of Forest Lake?
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Forest Lake had 7,731 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 5.6% to an estimated 8,161 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median household size in the suburb of Forest Lake is 2.8 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Brisbane and reflects the area's household composition mix.
What types of households are most common?
Family households dominate at 78.6% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (19.2%), group households (2.2%), and other household types (0.1%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 6,076 family households, 39.6% are couples with children, 24.0% are couples without children at home, and 13.8% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the suburb of Forest Lake compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Greater Brisbane, the suburb of Forest Lake shows distinct household patterns. Family households are notably over-represented at 78.6% (versus 71.7% regionally). This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
What is the average family size?
Families in the suburb of Forest Lake have an average of 1.6 children, slightly above the Greater Brisbane average of 1.5. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
What are the marriage patterns in the suburb of Forest Lake?
Marriage patterns reveal 49.5% of the adult population are currently married, while 33.9% have never married. This compares to 45.0% married and 38.4% never married across Greater Brisbane.
How significant are single-person households?
Single-person households represent 19.2% of all households in the suburb of Forest Lake, similar to the regional average of 23.6%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Are shared living arrangements common?
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.2% of households, well below the Greater Brisbane average of 4.7%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
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EducationSchools & Education in Forest Lake

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27.1% of adults in Forest Lake hold a university qualification, including 17.9% with a bachelor degree and 6.5% with postgraduate qualifications. A further 21.3% hold a vocational qualification. 6 schools serve the area, with 4,590 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 1,032 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

With university graduation rates at 27.1% in the suburb of Forest Lake, educational attainment sits slightly below the Greater Brisbane average of 30.5%, showing a minor difference that suggests reasonable academic competitiveness. Bachelor degrees are the most common qualification at 17.9%, followed by postgraduate studies (6.5%) and graduate diplomas (2.7%). Practical and vocational training is widely held, with 32.5% of residents aged 15+ holding technical qualifications, split between advanced diplomas (11.2%) and certificate level courses (21.3%). Enrolment rates are particularly high, with 30.5% of the local population actively participating in academic programs.

This cohort includes 10.2% attending primary schools, 9.5% in secondary education, and 5.6% enrolled in tertiary institutions.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the suburb of Forest Lake have university qualifications?
27.1% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Forest Lake have university qualifications, compared to 30.5% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the suburb of Forest Lake have no formal qualifications?
40.2% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Forest Lake have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.8% regionally.
How does the suburb of Forest Lake's education level compare to national averages?
The suburb of forest lake ranks in the 60th 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 Forest Lake?
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Forest Lake are: Certificate (21.3%), Bachelor Degree (17.9%), Advanced Diploma (11.2%).
What proportion of the suburb of Forest Lake's population is currently attending educational institutions?
30.5% of the population in the suburb of Forest Lake is currently engaged in formal education, with 10.2% in primary school, 9.5% in secondary school, 5.6% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the suburb of Forest Lake?
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Forest Lake is 1032, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
How many schools are located within the suburb of Forest Lake?
There are 6 schools within the suburb of Forest Lake, with a combined enrollment of approximately 4,590 students.
What types of schools are available in the suburb of Forest Lake?
The suburb of forest lake includes 3 primary schools, 3 secondary schools.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Forest Lake

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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Forest Lake

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Public transport in Forest Lake reaches 43 stops on 7 routes, timetabled for about 2,000 services a week. The typical home sits about 290 m from its nearest stop. Buses carry the largest share of public transport commuters. Households keep an average of 1.5 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

Public transit statistics show 43 active passenger stops within the suburb of Forest Lake, consisting of various bus options. These stops are serviced by 7 distinct routes, which run a total of 1,992 passenger trips per week. Transit access is classified as favorable, with residents living an average of 287 meters from the nearest stop. Due to the residential nature of the locality, most workers travel outside the area, with private cars remaining the primary choice at 86%, and trains accounting for 7%. Dwellings have an average of 1.5 vehicles.

Around 17.2% of residents performed their jobs from home, according to the 2021 Census, which may reflect pandemic-related conditions. Service frequency stands at an average of 284 daily journeys across all active routes, which represents approximately 46 weekly trips for each individual stop.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Forest Lake?
There are 43 public transport stops within the suburb of Forest Lake.
How frequent are the transport services in Forest Lake?
the suburb of Forest Lake has 1,992 weekly trips across 7 routes, averaging 284 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Forest Lake?
On average, residential properties are 287 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Forest Lake

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70.3% of residents in Forest Lake report no long-term health condition. 5.8% need daily assistance with core activities, and 50.3% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 5.2 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Health measures indicate poorer outcomes for the suburb of Forest Lake based on AreaSearch assessments of mortality patterns and the presence of chronic illnesses. While general health conditions are average for the broader community, they exceed national levels for older demographics. The level of private health insurance coverage is relatively low, held by approximately 50% of residents (~12,031 people), compared to 55.8% in Greater Brisbane and a national average of 55.7%. The most prevalent health issues recorded in the community were mental health concerns and asthma, affecting 8.4% and 7.4% of residents, respectively.

Meanwhile, 70.3% of the population reported no chronic medical conditions, compared to 69.2% across Greater Brisbane. Working-age residents display standard health profiles. People aged 65 and over make up 15.2% of the population (3,638 people). Health measures among the elderly indicate some difficulties, scoring lower relative to national benchmarks than the younger population.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the suburb of Forest Lake have private health insurance?
Around 50.3% of people in the suburb of Forest Lake are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 55.8% in the broader region of Greater Brisbane.
What percentage of the population requires ongoing medical assistance in the suburb of Forest Lake?
In the suburb of Forest Lake, 5.8% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 5.7% of people in Greater Brisbane require similar assistance.
How prevalent is asthma in the suburb of Forest Lake?
7.4% of people in the suburb of Forest Lake are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.0% of the population across Greater Brisbane is affected by asthma.
What percentage of people have diabetes in the suburb of Forest Lake?
Diabetes affects 4.8% of the the suburb of Forest Lake population, while in the surrounding region, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
What is the percentage of people with heart disease in the suburb of Forest Lake?
3.3% of people in the suburb of Forest Lake have heart disease. Across the region of Greater Brisbane, 3.5% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the suburb of Forest Lake compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the suburb of Forest Lake, 50.3% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Brisbane sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 55.8%.

Ancestry & LanguageCultural Diversity in Forest Lake

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39.8% of Forest Lake residents were born overseas and 33.2% speak a language other than English at home, more culturally diverse than 81% of areas nationally. The largest reported ancestries are English (23.0%) and Australian (19.5%). Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

The suburb of Forest Lake displays significant multicultural characteristics, with 33.2% of residents communicating in a language other than English at home and 39.8% born outside Australia. Christianity is the primary religious affiliation, representing 46.9% of the local population. The most prominent religious variance is in Buddhism, which accounts for 6.2% of residents compared to 2.0% across Greater Brisbane. In relation to family heritage, the primary ancestral backgrounds identified in the suburb of Forest Lake are English at 23.0%, Australian at 19.5%, and Other at 12.6%. There are also distinct variations in the concentration of other ethnic heritages: Samoan backgrounds are overrepresented at 2.6% (compared to 0.9% regionally), Vietnamese at 6.0% (compared to 0.8% regionally), and Maori at 1.5% (compared to 1.1% regionally).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the suburb of Forest Lake?
Forest Lake scores quite highly on cultural diversity, with 33.2% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 39.8% born overseas.
What is the most common religion in the suburb of Forest Lake?
The main religion in Forest Lake was found to be Christianity, which makes up 46.9% of people in Forest Lake. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 6.2% of the population, compared to 2.0% across Greater Brisbane.
What are the top countries of origin in the suburb of Forest Lake?
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Forest Lake are English, comprising 23.0% of the population, Australian, comprising 19.5% of the population, and Other, comprising 12.6% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Samoan is notably overrepresented at 2.6% of Forest Lake (vs 0.9% regionally), Vietnamese at 6.0% (vs 0.8%) and Maori at 1.5% (vs 1.1%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
39.8% of the the suburb of Forest Lake population was born overseas, compared to 28.5% regionally.
What percentage of the the suburb of Forest Lake population speaks a language other than English at home?
33.2% of the population in the suburb of Forest Lake speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 18.7% in the wider region.
How many people in the suburb of Forest Lake identify as Australian Aboriginal?
1.3% of the the suburb of Forest Lake population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 2.1% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the suburb of Forest Lake?
83.4% of the the suburb of Forest Lake population holds citizenship, compared to 83.6% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Forest Lake

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The median resident of Forest Lake is 37. 25.4% 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 Forest Lake is 37 years, which is almost identical to the Greater Brisbane average of 36 and very close to the Australian median of 38. Compared to the Greater Brisbane region, the suburb of Forest Lake features a higher proportion of residents in the 55 - 64 age bracket (12.4%) but a lower share of people aged 25 - 34 (11.5%). Since the 2021 Census, the proportion of residents aged 75 to 84 has risen from 4.1% to 5.1%, while the 45 to 54 group has decreased from 15.2% to 14.0%.

Demographic modeling projects significant changes to the age structure by 2041. The 75 to 84 age group is expected to grow the fastest, expanding by 60% and adding 737 residents to total 1,958. Older residents (65+) are projected to account for 64% of the population increase, highlighting a clear aging trend. Conversely, the cohorts aged 5 to 14 and 0 to 4 are projected to decrease in size.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the suburb of Forest Lake?
According to the latest data, the median age in the suburb of Forest Lake is 37 years.
How does the suburb of Forest Lake's median age compare to broader areas?
At 37 years, Forest Lake is comparable to the Greater Brisbane average (36 years) and similarly aligned with comparable to the national average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the suburb of Forest Lake?
The most over-represented age group in the suburb of Forest Lake compared to the Greater Brisbane region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 12.4% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the suburb of Forest Lake?
The most under-represented age group in the suburb of Forest Lake compared to the Greater Brisbane region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 11.5% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
No, the age distribution in the suburb of Forest Lake is broadly in line with the Greater Brisbane region.
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the suburb of Forest Lake?
The percentage of children aged 0-14 years in the suburb of Forest Lake is 18.7%.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the suburb of Forest Lake?
The percentage of people aged 65 and over in the suburb of Forest Lake is 15.2%.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Forest Lake

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 12 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 — 102 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for May 2026, not a 2021 count (22,676 at the 2021 Census → 23,938 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 (SAL31064). 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 Forest Lake 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 Forest Lake 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 Forest Lake 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