Suburb profile · Rest of Vic.
Golden Square has an estimated 9,446 residents, up 2.5% since the 2021 Census, with 9 projects tracked in Golden Square.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Located 132 kilometres north-northwest from Melbourne CBD, the suburb of Golden Square had an estimated population of 9,446 as of Aug 2026, based on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. (ERP) means Estimated Resident Population. The estimate reflects minimal change since the 2021 Census, which recorded 9,220 people. The suburb has a median age of 39 and is characterised by a fairly standard age composition, with many lone person households. Its market profile includes a notable healthcare employment base, strong service amenity, affordable housing options, elevated manufacturing employment, a pronounced proportion of residents aged 85 and over, and a substantial share aged 0 to 4yo.
Golden Square is known for its tranquil suburban atmosphere and Gold Rush heritage, with parks, walking trails and sporting facilities alongside historical buildings and modern homes. Schools, shopping centres, dining options and entertainment venues contribute to local amenity.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Located 132 kilometres north-northwest from Melbourne CBD, the suburb of Golden Square had an estimated population of 9,446 as of Aug 2026, based on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. (ERP) means Estimated Resident Population. The estimate reflects minimal change since the 2021 Census, which recorded 9,220 people. The suburb has a median age of 39 and is characterised by a fairly standard age composition, with many lone person households. Its market profile includes a notable healthcare employment base, strong service amenity, affordable housing options, elevated manufacturing employment, a pronounced proportion of residents aged 85 and over, and a substantial share aged 0 to 4yo.
Golden Square is known for its tranquil suburban atmosphere and Gold Rush heritage, with parks, walking trails and sporting facilities alongside historical buildings and modern homes. Schools, shopping centres, dining options and entertainment venues contribute to local amenity.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 8,237 in 2006 and 9,414 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 9,446 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 25 to 34, 14.9%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 31.7%.
Golden Square ranks in the 85th percentile nationally for amenities and the 75th for infrastructure drivers.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
The median rent in Golden Square is $458 a week, up 5.8% over 12 months to Sep 2025.
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $405 in 2022, $476 in 2025; Units (dashed orange line): $322 in 2022, $382 in 2025. The latest is to Sep 2025.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $458 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +5.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, houses | $476 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +5.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, units | $382 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +0.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Bendigo | $485 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Bendigo, over 12 months | +6.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Regional Vic. | $458 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Regional Vic., over 12 months | +5.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, VIC | $560 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, VIC, over 12 months | +4.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 43 tracked applications: 28 approved, 4 under assessment, 11 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 9 projects in Golden Square (1 under construction) and 45 more in the surrounding area.
Remediation and healing of Country for a 14-hectare former mining site in Golden Square, Bendigo, significantly degraded from gold mining activities since the 1850s. Delivered by Development Victoria in partnership with Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation (DJAARA), City of Greater Bendigo, and the Environment Protection Authority Victoria.
Redevelopment of the former 1.2ha Golden Square Primary School site. Planning Scheme Amendment C241gben, which rezoned part of the land from Public Use Zone to Residential Growth Zone to facilitate the sale of the surplus government land for residential development, was gazetted in June 2024.
Golden Rise Bendigo is a masterplanned seniors living community by Mercy Health in Golden Square. Stage 1 is established and Stages 2 and 3 are now being released and sold, with contemporary two and three bedroom villas, a community hub, landscaped gardens and co-located aged care services at Mercy Place Bethlehem.
A new $3.8 million food relief warehouse with triple the storage capacity of the previous facility, serving as stage one of a broader Community Food Hub to address food insecurity and support local produce distribution. Construction completed in July 2024, with official opening in September 2024.
Complete rebuild of the former Kangaroo Flat Secondary College site in south-west Bendigo, delivered by the Victorian Government as one of four new Year 7-10 campuses under the Bendigo Education Plan. Kane Constructions was awarded the lump sum contract in May 2008 and the Hassell-designed campus was completed in early 2010 for student occupation in Term 2.
Redevelopment and modernisation of the regional transport maintenance depot and operational facilities in Bendigo. The works include new bus and heavy vehicle maintenance bays, refurbished administrative offices, and upgraded operational staging infrastructure to support expanded public transport services.
Victorian Government social housing project delivering 19 two-storey townhouses at 213-221 Jobs Gully Road in Eaglehawk. The site forms part of Homes Victoria's Virginia Hill precinct under the Big Housing Build. Site clearing works commenced mid-2025 ahead of main construction, with completion targeted for 2027.
The largest civic infrastructure project by the City of Greater Bendigo, this $45M redevelopment includes a second-level blockbuster exhibition space, an innovative learning centre, a 100-seat theatre, and a Traditional Owner Place of Keeping for Dja Dja Wurrung cultural materials.
New community skate park featuring beginner and intermediate skating zones with street-style elements, quarter pipes, ledges and rails. The project also includes seating, shelters, drinking fountains, shade structures, BBQ facilities and improved connections to the Bendigo Creek Trail and Gateway Park.
A $16.6 million social housing project providing 35 energy-efficient, wheelchair-accessible one-bedroom units for people over 50 experiencing or at risk of homelessness, built on a former motel site with private outdoor spaces, communal garden, activity room, and proximity to amenities.
Modernisation of Bendigo Special Developmental School in Kangaroo Flat to provide new classrooms and learning spaces for around 150 to 180 students with moderate to severe intellectual disabilities. The upgrade replaced ageing facilities with purpose-built, universal classrooms designed to support a wider range of activities and needs.
Two of the three projects in the Victorian Government's Bendigo Sports Package, delivered by Development Victoria on behalf of Sport and Recreation Victoria under the Regional Sports Infrastructure Program. Construction commenced at both venues in September 2025 and is due for completion in late 2026.
Images marked AI impression are illustrative only and not photographs of the project; follow the project links for actual imagery. Original imagery? Contact us.
Estimated completion year of the 24 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 2, 2026 7, 2027 8, 2028 3, 2029 1, 2030 1, 2031 1, 2032 1. 10 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 43 substantial development applications lodged in and around Golden Square over the past 5 years, 10 in the last 12 months; 4 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2022 (part year) 10, 2023 8, 2024 5, 2025 13, 2026 (to Oct) 7.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 43 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 10 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 5.4 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 66th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 50 | ABS building approvals | 59th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 28 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 4 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Golden Square include: Chum Street Remediation Project (Planning); Bendigo Depot Facility Redevelopment (Planning); Golden Rise Bendigo (Construction); Former Golden Square Primary School Redevelopment (Dev. Approval); and Patricia Larkin Housing (Completed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Golden Square spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Environmental & Disaster Management, and Sports & Recreation, among others.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Golden Square recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Golden Square area has seen 86 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Golden Square's current population of 9,446 has been supported by 50 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Golden Square has seen 5.4 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 7.6 approvals in Regional Vic.. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 218 people in the suburb of Golden Square, compared to one for every 145 in Regional Vic..
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Golden Square's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 50, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Golden Square has grown by approximately 198 people, while 250 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 0.8 people added for each new dwelling approval. This low ratio indicates housing supply is outpacing population growth, potentially creating market oversupply.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
Population growth drivers in Golden Square are slightly above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 9,446 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +2.5% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,113 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 54th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 9,220 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 226 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 8.49 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Golden Square was estimated to be approximately 9,446 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 9,414 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Golden Square has added approximately 226 people and shown a 2.45% increase from the 9,220 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Golden Square is estimated at 1,113 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Golden Square has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.6% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Golden Square is driven by: Overseas migration (100.0%), Natural increase (0.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 100.0% of overall population gains.
Golden Square's population aligns closely with national norms in age terms.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 39 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 49th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 21.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 17.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 25.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 50.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age at the 2021 Census | 39 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 6.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 11.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 14.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 14.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 10.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 10.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 7.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Golden Square at 39 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 39 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 39 years as at August 2026, Golden Square is 4 years younger than the Regional Vic. 2021 Census average (43 years) yet comparable to the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Golden Square compared to the Regional Vic. region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 14.9% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Golden Square compared to the Regional Vic. region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 10.4% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Golden Square show significant variance compared to Regional Vic.. The most over-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (14.9% vs 11.0%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 17.5% of the population in the suburb of Golden Square as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 21.3% of the population in the suburb of Golden Square as at August 2026.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $57,020 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 40th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $64,565 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,344 | 2021 Census, weekly | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $721 | 2021 Census, weekly | 32nd percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 12.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,715 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 28.1% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Golden Square is approximately $60,783. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $57,020.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Golden Square is approximately $68,826. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $64,565.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Golden Square is approximately $60,783 compared to $57,266 in Regional Vic.. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $57,020 and $53,720 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Golden Square is approximately $68,826 compared to $70,544 in Regional Vic.. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $64,565 and $66,176 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Golden Square's households (~31.7% / 1,189 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Golden Square is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 31.7% of households. In comparison, Regional Vic.'s largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 30.3% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Golden Square is $1,344/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Golden Square is $1,715/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Golden Square is $721/wk.
The suburb of Golden Square's income level is lower than average on a national basis according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The suburb of Golden Square's median income among taxpayers is $57,020 and the average income stands at $64,565, which compares to figures for Regional Vic.'s of $53,720 and $66,176 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.6% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $60,783 (median) and $68,826 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Golden Square is $4,943 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Golden Square's disposable income is $4,943 compared to $5,209 for Regional Vic., based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis reveals Golden Square recording weaker employment conditions than most comparable areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 5.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 59.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 4,379 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 8,382 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 4,623 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Golden Square has approximately 4,379 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 5.3%. The unemployment rate is moderate, indicating some available workforce capacity. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Golden Square stands at 5.3%, which is 1.6 percentage points above Regional Vic.'s rate of 3.7%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Golden Square is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (20.5% of employment), retail trade (10.6%), and construction (9.3%). Other significant employers include manufacturing and education & training.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Golden Square has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Regional Vic. saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate dropped.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Golden Square is 59.0%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This moderate participation rate suggests some residents may face barriers to workforce entry. The local rate trailing the Regional Vic. average of 61.1%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Regional Vic..
The suburb of Golden Square shows notable specialisation in health care & social assistance, which employs 20.5% of the local workforce compared to 16.8% across Regional Vic.. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector.
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The suburb of Golden Square's employment market shows below-average performance in national comparisons. While employment opportunities exist, the area faces more challenges than many other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 5.3% growth, ranking 11th out of 37 regions nationally.
Education in Golden Square: university qualifications 21.6%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 954.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 14.7% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 3.8% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 21.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 26.9% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 3.1% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.5% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 41.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 27.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 3.6% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 9.6% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.3% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
21.6% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Golden Square have university qualifications, compared to 21.7% in Regional Vic..
41.1% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Golden Square have no formal qualifications, compared to 40.4% in Regional Vic..
The suburb of Golden Square ranks in the 33th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Golden Square are: Certificate (26.9%), Bachelor Degree (14.7%), Advanced Diploma (10.5%).
27.4% of the population in the suburb of Golden Square is currently engaged in formal education, including 9.6% in primary school, 7.3% in secondary school, 3.6% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Golden Square is 954, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 2 schools within the suburb of Golden Square, with a combined enrollment of approximately 590 students.
The suburb of Golden Square includes 2 primary schools.
Golden Square features high concentrations of single parent families and lone person households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Regional Vic.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.3 people | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 32.4% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 22.8% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 25.9% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 13.8% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.8% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 3,752 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 3,844 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 63.7% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.7 per family | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Golden Square had 3,752 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 2.5% to an estimated 3,844 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Golden Square is 2.3 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional Vic. and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 63.7% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (32.4%), group households (3.8%), and other household types (0.1%).
Of the 2,390 family households, couples with children account for 22.8% of all households, couples without children at home 25.9%, and single parent families 13.8%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Vic., the suburb of Golden Square shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the suburb of Golden Square have an average of 1.7 children, slightly below the Regional Vic. average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 40.1% of the adult population are currently married, while 38.8% have never married. This compares to 46.3% married and 34.0% never married across Regional Vic..
Single-person households represent 32.4% of all households in the suburb of Golden Square, similar to the average for Regional Vic. of 29.3%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 3.8% of households, above the Regional Vic. average of 2.9%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Golden Square is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 10.5% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 7.5% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 92.5% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 89.8% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 89.5% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.8% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
Golden Square was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 89.8% of its population being citizens, 89.5% born in Australia, and 92.5% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Golden Square, at 45.0% of people, although more residents (51.2%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 1.3% of the population, compared to 1.0% across Regional Vic..
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Golden Square are English, comprising 31.7% of the population, Australian, comprising 30.0% of the population, and Irish, comprising 10.0% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Scottish is notably overrepresented at 9.1% of Golden Square (vs 8.8% across Regional Vic.), Samoan at 0.1% (vs 0.1%) and Dutch at 1.2% (vs 1.7%).
10.5% of the suburb of Golden Square population was born overseas, compared to 13.2% across Regional Vic..
7.5% of the population in the suburb of Golden Square speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.6% in Regional Vic..
1.8% of the suburb of Golden Square population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Regional Vic..
89.8% of the suburb of Golden Square population holds citizenship, compared to 88.6% in Regional Vic..
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Golden Square is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional Vic.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 35.6% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 31.6% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 91.7% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,300 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 20th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 32.8% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 4.3% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $295 | 2021 Census, weekly | 24th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 21.9% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 22.3% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 34th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Golden Square, 31.6% of homes are owned outright, 32.8% are owned with a mortgage, and 35.6% are rented.
According to the latest data, 91.7% of dwellings in the suburb of Golden Square are houses.
In the suburb of Golden Square, 4.0% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 4.3% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Golden Square stands at 31.6%, compared to 40.9% in Regional Vic..
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Golden Square is $1,300, compared to $1,430 in Regional Vic..
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Golden Square is $881, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Golden Square, households with mortgages typically spend 22.3% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 21.9% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Golden Square is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Golden Square shows mortgage holders spending 22.3% of income on repayments (vs 23.8% in Regional Vic.), while renters spend 21.9% of income on rent (vs 20.6% in Regional Vic.).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Golden Square consists of 91.7% detached houses, 4.3% semi-detached dwellings, 4.0% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Golden Square consumes approximately 15.1% of median household income ($5,820 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Golden Square show attached dwellings contributing 48% of approvals compared to 8% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 52% of applications versus 92% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Health performance in Golden Square is well below the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 50.7% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 33rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 60.9% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 8.4% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 69.2% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.1% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
Around 50.7% of people in the suburb of Golden Square are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 50.8% in Regional Vic..
In the suburb of Golden Square, 8.4% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.9% of people in Regional Vic. require similar assistance.
9.1% of people in the suburb of Golden Square are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.7% of the population across Regional Vic. is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.4% of the suburb of Golden Square population, while in Regional Vic., 4.6% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.0% of people in the suburb of Golden Square have heart disease. Across Regional Vic.,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Golden Square, 50.7% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional Vic. sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 50.8%.
Transport servicing is good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 60 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 60th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 65 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 1,896 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 48th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 151 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 8 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.3 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 14.8% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 65 public transport stops within the suburb of Golden Square.
The suburb of Golden Square has 1,896 weekly trips across 8 routes, averaging 270 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 272 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 578 m away and the nearest school 788 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 65 stops nearby, 1,896 weekly trips, access rating 60 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 85 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 85th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 578 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 788 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 981 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest dentist | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 2.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 2.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 2.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 3.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 3.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 3 long day care centres with 309 places in Golden Square, about 1.8 children aged 0-4 per place.
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on Golden Square is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Golden Square.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Golden Square recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Golden Square ranks in the 75th percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Golden Square is $458 a week, +5.8% over 12 months to Sep 2025.
Population growth drivers in Golden Square are slightly above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium term trends.
Golden Square's population aligns closely with national norms in age terms.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
AreaSearch analysis reveals Golden Square recording weaker employment conditions than most comparable areas nationwide.
Education in Golden Square: university qualifications 21.6%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 954.
Golden Square features high concentrations of single parent families and lone person households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Regional Vic.
Golden Square is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
Golden Square is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional Vic.
Health performance in Golden Square is well below the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Golden Square has an estimated 9,446 residents, up 2.5% since the 2021 Census, with 9 projects tracked in Golden Square.
Latest estimate as at Aug 2026; other figures from the 2021 Census, ATO FY-24 and AreaSearch estimates where labelled. Updated 14 Oct 2026.
Sources: ABS Census 2021, ABS estimated resident population, ATO taxation statistics, state rental bonds and property sales records where published, and AreaSearch analysis for Golden Square.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2025, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Aug 2026. Housing, households and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 15 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SAL boundaries are defined by Australia Post and the Australian Bureau of Statistics to represent commonly-known suburb names used in postal addresses.
Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census data collection and may combine multiple suburbs or use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (SAL21058). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries (suburb-style geography). SAL represents commonly-known suburb names used in addresses, while Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census and statistical reporting. Even when sharing the same name, SAL and SA2 boundaries often cover different geographic areas with different populations.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Aug 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Golden Square from the 2021 Census, ATO taxpayer data and AreaSearch estimates and analysis. Each topic has its own table of key figures beside the section it belongs to, and each row names its source and date. The percentile compares Golden Square with every neighbourhood-sized area across Australia (ABS SA2 areas): a higher percentile means more of that measure than most, not necessarily better.
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
