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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.
est. as @ -- *
2021 Census | -- people
Sales Activity
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Population
Jackass Flat lies within the top 10% of areas nationally in terms of population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of short and medium-term trends
The population of the suburb of Jackass Flat is estimated at around 2,192 as of May 2026. This reflects an increase of 285 people since the 2021 Census, which reported a population of 1,907 people. The change is inferred from the resident population of 2,171 estimated by AreaSearch following examination of the latest ERP data release by the ABS in June 2025 and an additional 205 validated new addresses since the Census date. This level of population equates to a density ratio of 991 persons per square kilometer. The suburb's 14.9% growth since the 2021 census exceeded that of the SA3 area (3.9%) and the SA4 region, marking it as a growth leader in the region. Population growth for the area was primarily driven by interstate migration, contributing approximately 46.0% of overall population gains during recent periods.
AreaSearch is adopting ABS/Geoscience Australia projections for each SA2 area, released in 2024 with 2022 as the base year. For areas not covered by this data, AreaSearch is utilising the VIC State Government's Regional/LGA projections released in 2023 with adjustments made employing a method of weighted aggregation of population growth from LGA to SA2 levels. Growth rates by age group from these aggregations are also applied across all areas for years 2032 to 2041. Considering the projected demographic shifts, exceptional growth is predicted over the period, placing the suburb in the top 10 percent of Australian non-metropolitan areas. The area is expected to increase by 988 persons to 2041 based on aggregated SA2-level projections, reflecting an increase of 44.1% in total over the 16 years.
Frequently Asked Questions - Population
Development
AreaSearch assessment of residential development activity positions Jackass Flat among the top 25% of areas assessed nationwide
AreaSearch analysis of ABS building approval numbers in Jackass Flat shows an average of around 38 new dwelling approvals annually over the past five financial years, totalling an estimated 193 homes. So far in FY-26, 28 approvals have been recorded. On average, 3 new residents arrive per year for each dwelling constructed between FY-21 and FY-25, indicating a substantial lag between supply and demand, which typically leads to heightened buyer competition and pricing pressures. The average construction value of new homes is $407,000, suggesting developers are focusing on the premium market with high-end developments.
This financial year has seen $1.4 million in commercial development approvals, predominantly residential in focus. Compared to Rest of Vic., Jackass Flat shows 178.0% higher building activity per person, offering buyers greater choice, although recent periods have seen a moderation in development activity. This level is significantly above the national average, indicating robust developer interest in the area. Recent construction comprises 94.0% detached houses and 6.0% townhouses or apartments, maintaining the area's traditional suburban character with a focus on family homes appealing to those seeking space. The location has approximately 127 people per dwelling approval, indicating an expanding market.
Population forecasts indicate Jackass Flat will gain 967 residents through to 2041 (from the latest AreaSearch quarterly estimate). With current construction levels, housing supply should adequately meet demand, creating favourable conditions for buyers while potentially enabling growth that exceeds current forecasts.
Frequently Asked Questions - Development
Development applications around Jackass Flat
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| Lodged | Address | Description | Type | Distance | Status |
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SOURCE: Planning portals and council registers, compiled by AreaSearch. Distance & bearing measured from the suburb midpoint.
Infrastructure
Jackass Flat has very high levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 20% nationally
Changes to local infrastructure significantly impact an area's performance. AreaSearch has identified two projects that may affect this region. Notable projects include the Bendigo and Echuca Line Upgrade - Electronic Train Order (ETO) System, Victory Christian College Stage 1, Bendigo Low Line, and La Trobe University Bendigo Campus Transformation. The following details those likely to have the most relevance.
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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure
Victoria to NSW Interconnector West (VNI West)
VNI West is a proposed 500 kV double circuit overhead transmission interconnector linking the NSW and Victorian high voltage electricity grids. The preferred option runs from Transgrid's Dinawan Substation north of Jerilderie to new substations proposed near Kerang and Bulgana, connecting EnergyConnect in NSW with Western Renewables Link in Victoria. The project is intended to increase transfer capacity between the states, support renewable energy zones, improve reliability and security of supply, and enable regional jobs and community benefits. The NSW section has completed EIS exhibition and Transgrid is preparing Submissions and Amendment Reports for lodgement in mid-2026. The Victorian section is preparing an Environment Effects Statement, with VicGrid responsible for planning and Iberdrola Australia selected as development partner.
Water and Sewer Network Program
A major program to renew and upgrade critical water and sewer infrastructure across the Coliban Water region. Key 2026 activities include routine water mains cleaning via air scouring in Maiden Gully and Bendigo Central, and significant upgrades to the Cohuna Water Treatment Plant. The program also encompasses the Coliban Rural Water Efficiency Project, a $160 million initiative to modernize gold rush-era open channels with piped networks to reduce water loss by up to 79%. The Maiden Gully to Marong pipeline, a 17km critical link, is a centerpiece of this 'Big Water Build' to support regional population growth.
Greater Bendigo Managed Growth Strategy
Long-term residential growth framework adopted by the City of Greater Bendigo on 16 September 2024 to guide housing and settlement planning to 2056. The strategy plans for about 87,000 additional residents and 38,000 additional dwellings, with a strong focus on infill housing, housing diversity, safer settlement planning, environmental constraints and growth areas including Huntly, Maiden Gully, Marong, Strathfieldsaye, Jackass Flat and Ravenswood as an investigation area. Implementation is being pursued through proposed Planning Scheme Amendment C287gben. As of early 2026, the Minister for Planning has appointed the Bushfire Planning Advisory Committee to provide independent advice on bushfire settlement planning and whether proposed Amendment C287gben can be considered for authorisation.
Mildura Passenger Rail Return
Long-running advocacy and planning initiative to reinstate passenger rail services between Mildura and Melbourne, restoring a connection that ended in 1993. Mildura remains the largest Victorian regional centre without a passenger rail link. The current focus, as of 2026, has shifted to a staged 'Rails to Recovery' concept circulated by the Rail Revival Alliance Victoria, proposing a standard-gauge locomotive-hauled shuttle between Mildura and Maryborough, connecting with the existing V/Line VLocity service to Melbourne via Ballarat. Two active Victorian Parliament petitions are pushing for the trial: a Legislative Assembly e-petition closing 10 May 2026 and Legislative Council Petition #730 closing 28 February 2026. Mildura MP Jade Benham has renewed parliamentary calls and is meeting rail stakeholders to identify practical pathways. Mildura Rural City Council continues to advocate for the project under its Mildura Future Ready strategy. Significant infrastructure considerations remain, including upgrades at around 145 level crossings, rolling stock provisioning, and operating model. The Victorian Government has not committed funding for delivery as of early 2026.
Victorian Renewable Energy Zones
The Victorian Renewable Energy Zones (REZs) represent a strategic 15-year roadmap to upgrade the state electricity grid as it transitions from coal to renewable energy. Managed by VicGrid, the 2025 Victorian Transmission Plan identifies six onshore zones (Central Highlands, Central North, Gippsland, North-West, South-West, and Western/Grampians) and a Gippsland Shoreline zone for offshore wind. The plan coordinates the connection of approximately 25GW of new solar, wind, and storage capacity by 2035, requiring nearly 800km of transmission upgrades. As of early 2026, VicGrid is finalizing the declaration of these zones following extensive community consultation on draft REZ orders, which closed in March 2026.
Bendigo and Echuca Line Upgrade - Electronic Train Order (ETO) System
Delivery of a modernised electronic train order (ETO) system on the Bendigo regional network, covering the corridors to Swan Hill and Echuca. The ETO system enables additional services to Epsom and Eaglehawk and supports tripled weekday services between Bendigo and Echuca, along with faster, more reliable journeys.
Bendigo and Echuca Line Upgrade
Completed $176 million rail upgrade (part of the $4 billion Regional Rail Revival program) delivering three new stations at Goornong, Huntly and Raywood, track and signalling upgrades enabling speeds up to 130 km/h (Epsom-Goornong) and 100 km/h (Goornong-Echuca), a new Electronic Train Order system, 10 upgraded level crossings with improved detection, and tripled weekday services to Echuca. Passengers save up to 12 minutes on journeys, with additional savings from timetable changes in late 2023.
Axedale Solar Farm
A hybrid 140 MW solar PV and 50 MW/100 MWh battery energy storage system project located 20 km east of Bendigo in Victoria. The project utilizes state-of-the-art solar photovoltaic panels that track the sun, reducing emissions by 200,000 tonnes of CO2 per year, creating up to 150 construction jobs and 5 ongoing local jobs, with potential for sheep grazing during operation.
Employment
Jackass Flat has seen below average employment performance when compared to national benchmarks
Jackass Flat has a skilled workforce with notable representation from essential services sectors. The unemployment rate was 6.1% in the past year, with an estimated employment growth of 5.2%. As of December 2025, there are 1,094 residents employed, and the unemployment rate is 2.4% higher than Regional Vic.'s rate of 3.7%.
Workforce participation is high at 72.2%, compared to Regional Vic.'s 61.0%. According to Census responses, only 11.0% of residents work from home, though Covid-19 lockdown impacts are considered. The leading employment industries among residents are health care & social assistance, manufacturing, and construction. Jackass Flat has a particularly notable concentration in health care & social assistance, with employment levels at 1.4 times the regional average.
However, agriculture, forestry & fishing is under-represented, with only 1.4% of Jackass Flat's workforce compared to 7.5% in Regional Vic.. The area appears to offer limited local employment opportunities, as indicated by the count of Census working population vs resident population. Over the 12 months to December 2025, employment increased by 5.2%, while labour force increased by 5.3%, causing the unemployment rate to rise by 0.1 percentage points. In comparison, Regional Vic. saw employment fall by 0.6%, labour force contract by 0.7%, and unemployment fall by 0.1 percentage points. Jobs and Skills Australia's national employment forecasts from May-25 suggest that national employment is forecast to expand by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years. Applying these projections to Jackass Flat's employment mix suggests local employment should increase by 6.6% over five years and 14.1% over ten years, though this is a simple weighting extrapolation for illustrative purposes and does not take into account localised population projections.
Frequently Asked Questions - Employment
Income
The economic profile demonstrates above-average performance, with income metrics exceeding national benchmarks based on AreaSearch comparative assessment
The median taxpayer income in Jackass Flat is $62,226 and the average is $69,234 according to postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for financial year 2023. This is higher than the national averages of $57,081 (median) and $71,894 (average). The latest Wage Price Index growth of 9.62% suggests estimated incomes in Jackass Flat would be approximately $68,212 (median) and $75,894 (average) by March 2026. Census data indicates that household, family, and personal incomes in Jackass Flat are at the 57th percentile nationally. The earnings profile shows that 45.9% of residents earn between $1,500 - 2,999 annually (1,006 people). This is similar to regional levels where 30.3% fall within this income bracket. Residents spend 16.0% of their income on housing costs, but strong earnings place disposable income at the 54th percentile nationally.
Frequently Asked Questions - Income
Housing
Jackass Flat is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than the broader region
In Jackass Flat, as per the latest Census, 99.4% of dwellings were houses, with 0.6% being semi-detached homes, apartments, or other types. This compares to Regional Vic.'s 90.1% houses and 9.9% other dwellings. Home ownership in Jackass Flat stood at 16.4%, with mortgaged dwellings at 49.0% and rented ones at 34.6%. The median monthly mortgage repayment was $1,515, higher than Regional Vic.'s average of $1,430. Median weekly rent in Jackass Flat was $340, compared to Regional Vic.'s $285. Nationally, Jackass Flat's mortgage repayments were lower at $1,515 versus Australia's average of $1,863, and rents were also lower at $340 compared to the national figure of $375.
Frequently Asked Questions - Housing
Household Composition
Jackass Flat features high concentrations of family households, with a higher-than-average median household size
Family households account for 81.6% of all households, including 38.7% couples with children, 24.7% couples without children, and 16.4% single parent families. Non-family households constitute the remaining 18.4%, with lone person households at 14.5% and group households making up 2.8%. The median household size is 2.9 people, which is larger than the Regional Vic. average of 2.4.
Frequently Asked Questions - Households
Local Schools & Education
Jackass Flat shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators
The area's university qualification rate is 17.9%, significantly lower than Victoria's average of 33.4%. Bachelor degrees are the most common at 12.9%, followed by postgraduate qualifications (2.8%) and graduate diplomas (2.2%). Vocational credentials are prevalent, with 41.4% of residents aged 15+ holding them, including advanced diplomas (10.5%) and certificates (30.9%). Educational participation is high, with 31.3% of residents currently enrolled in formal education, comprising 11.0% in primary, 7.4% in secondary, and 4.2% in tertiary education.
Educational participation is notably high, with 31.3% of residents currently enrolled in formal education. This includes 11.0% in primary education, 7.4% in secondary education, and 4.2% pursuing tertiary education.
Frequently Asked Questions - Education
Schools Detail
Nearby Services & Amenities
Transport
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility
Jackass Flat has eight active public transport stops. Two routes service these stops, offering a total of 169 weekly passenger trips. Transport accessibility is rated good, with residents typically located 331 meters from the nearest stop. Most residents commute outward, with car being the dominant mode at 97%. Vehicle ownership averages 1.7 per dwelling, higher than the regional average. According to the 2021 Census, only 11% of residents work from home, which may reflect COVID-19 conditions.
Service frequency averages 24 trips per day across all routes, equating to approximately 21 weekly trips per individual stop.
Frequently Asked Questions - Transport
Transport Stops Detail
Health
Health performance in Jackass Flat is lower than average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts
Jackass Flat faces significant health challenges, as assessed by AreaSearch's mortality rates and chronic condition prevalence. Common health conditions are somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
Private health cover is found to be high at approximately 54% of the total population (~1,188 people), compared to 50.5% in Regional Vic.. The most common medical conditions are mental health issues and asthma, impacting 11.9 and 9.8% of residents respectively. 70.4% of residents declare themselves completely clear of medical ailments, compared to 63.4% across Regional Vic.. Working-age residents show above average prevalence of chronic health conditions. The area has 5.2% of residents aged 65 and over (113 people), which is lower than the 23.9% in Regional Vic.. National rankings are even higher than the general population.
Frequently Asked Questions - Health
Cultural Diversity
In terms of cultural diversity, Jackass Flat records figures broadly comparable to the national average, as found in AreaSearch's assessment of a number of language and cultural background related metrics
Jackass Flat's cultural diversity aligns with the broader regional average, with 85.0% of its residents born in Australia, 90.6% being citizens, and 83.7% speaking English only at home. Christianity is the predominant religion, practiced by 34.3% of Jackass Flat's population. The most notable overrepresentation is in the 'Other' category, comprising 1.7% compared to Regional Vic's 0.8%.
In terms of ancestry, Australians make up 32.5%, English 29.7%, and Other 10.9%, significantly higher than the regional average of 4.7%. Notably, Australian Aboriginal representation is overrepresented at 3.0% compared to Regional Vic's 1.4%, Filipino at 1.0% versus 0.6%, and Indian at 1.3% against 0.8%.
Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity
Age
Jackass Flat hosts a very young demographic, ranking in the bottom 10% of areas nationwide
At 26 years, Jackass Flat's median age is younger than Regional Vic.'s average of 43 and lower than the national average of 38. Compared to Regional Vic., Jackass Flat has a higher proportion of 25-34 residents at 29.3%, but fewer 65-74 year-olds at 3%. This is significantly higher than the national figure of 14.6% for the 25-34 age group. Post-2021 Census data shows a shift in median age down to 26, with key changes including growth of the 25-34 cohort from 25.4% to 29.3%, and increase of the 35-44 cohort from 12.1% to 13.8%. Conversely, the 65-74 cohort declined from 5.2% to 3%, and the 55-64 group dropped from 6.6% to 4.9%. Demographic modeling suggests Jackass Flat's age profile will significantly evolve by 2041, with the strongest growth projected for the 25-34 cohort at 72%, adding 463 residents to reach 1,106.