Chart Color Schemes
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
Curious about local property values? Filter the chart to assess the volume and appreciation (including resales) trends and regional comparisons, or scroll to the map below view this information at an individual property level.
Find a Recent Sale
Sales Detail
Population
Population growth drivers in Lake Gardens are slightly above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium term trends
Based on analysis of ABS population updates for the broader area, the estimated population of Lake Gardens as of May 2026 is around 1,722. This reflects a decrease of 79 people (4.4%) since the 2021 Census, which reported a population of 1,801 people. The change is inferred from the resident population of 1,722, estimated by AreaSearch following examination of the latest ERP data release by the ABS in June 2025 and an additional 10 validated new addresses since the Census date. This level of population equates to a density ratio of 1,435 persons per square kilometer, which is above the average seen across national locations assessed by AreaSearch. Population growth for Lake Gardens was primarily driven by overseas migration during recent periods.
AreaSearch is adopting ABS/Geoscience Australia projections for each SA2 area, as released in 2024 with 2022 as the base year. For any SA2 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. Looking at population projections moving forward, an above median population growth of Australian non-metropolitan areas is projected, with Lake Gardens expected to expand by 273 persons to 2041 based on aggregated SA2-level projections, reflecting a total increase of 15.8% over the 16 years.
Frequently Asked Questions - Population
Development
The level of residential development activity in Lake Gardens is very low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally by AreaSearch
Lake Gardens saw an average of three dwelling approvals per year between 2016 and 2020, totaling 16 dwellings over the five-year period. This limited development activity reflects the rural nature of the area, with housing needs typically driving projects rather than broad market demand. The small sample size means individual developments can significantly impact annual growth statistics.
Compared to other Victorian regions and national patterns, Lake Gardens has much lower development activity. Recent building activity consists solely of detached dwellings, aligning with rural living preferences for space and privacy. As of 2021, there are approximately 1178 people per dwelling approval in the area, indicating an established market. AreaSearch's latest quarterly estimate projects Lake Gardens to gain 273 residents by 2041.
If current construction levels continue, housing supply may lag population growth, potentially intensifying buyer competition and supporting price growth.
Frequently Asked Questions - Development
Development applications around Lake Gardens
Loading development applications…
| Lodged | Address | Description | Type | Distance | Status |
|---|
SOURCE: Planning portals and council registers, compiled by AreaSearch. Distance & bearing measured from the suburb midpoint.
Infrastructure
Lake Gardens has very high levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 20% nationally
Changes to local infrastructure significantly influence an area's performance. AreaSearch has identified one major project that could impact this region. Notable projects include Learmonth Road Retail Hub, Ballarat Base Hospital Redevelopment, Duplication of Dyson Drive, and Insignia Estate. The following details those expected to be most relevant.
Professional plan users can use the search below to filter and access additional projects.
INFRASTRUCTURE SEARCH
Denotes AI-based impression for illustrative purposes only, not to be taken as definitive under any circumstances. Please follow links and conduct other investigations from the project's source for actual imagery. Developers and project owners wishing us to use original imagery please Contact Us and we will do so.
Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure
Ballarat Base Hospital Redevelopment
The $655 million Ballarat Base Hospital Redevelopment is in its third and final stage, building a new seven-level hospital tower delivered by Built in partnership with the Victorian Health Building Authority and Grampians Health. The tower will include a new main entrance off Sturt Street, a new emergency department with an integrated mental health, alcohol and other drugs hub, a women and children's hub, a state-of-the-art operating theatre suite, an expanded critical care floor, a new helipad, and around 100 extra inpatient and short stay beds. As of late 2025, structural works on the new tower are well advanced, with vertical concrete pours progressing and four tower cranes operating on site. Earlier stages have already delivered a six-storey central energy plant and support services building on Drummond Street, and an expanded multi-deck carpark adding 400 spaces. Once complete, the upgraded hospital will treat at least 18,000 more emergency patients and 14,500 additional inpatients per year, supporting around 4,000 extra surgeries annually. The project is on track for completion in 2027.
Lucas Town Centre
A comprehensive retail and community hub serving the Lucas masterplanned community, featuring Coltman Plaza shopping centre with Woolworths supermarket, specialty stores, medical facilities, cafes, restaurants, and community services. The town centre serves over 6,000 residents and continues to expand with additional commercial and health facilities.
Learmonth Road Retail Hub
A premium large-format retail destination in Wendouree, spanning approximately 29,450sqm. The project is designed for diverse homemaker and lifestyle brands, featuring over 360 on-site car parks and tenancies ranging from 1,000 to 2,700sqm. It occupies a strategic 'golden mile' location with high visibility and 20,000 daily passing vehicles.
Circular Economy Precinct
A transformational regional circular economy hub at Stage 3B of the Ballarat West Employment Zone, anchored by a Materials Recovery Facility with 30,000 tonne annual capacity. The precinct will co-locate waste management activities with recycling and remanufacturing businesses to process recyclables from Western Victoria, creating a self-sufficient regional waste management system that reduces landfill, cuts transport emissions, and supports innovation and job creation. The MRF will sort commingled recyclables including plastics, paper, cardboard, metals and glass for local reprocessing. Expected to create 68 FTE jobs (24 direct, 44 flow-on) and attract over $270 million in private investment.
Wendouree Library and Learning Centre
A transformational 2,700 square metre double-storey library and learning centre at Weeramar Park, Wendouree, serving over 40,000 residents across Wendouree, Ballarat North, Invermay, Miners Rest and surrounding areas. The facility will replace the existing library at Stockland Wendouree and include comprehensive library services, City of Ballarat customer service point, Visitor Information Centre, Parent Place services, maker space, study and activity areas, relaxation spaces, a cafe with free WiFi, and support for lifelong learning, health, wellbeing and community connection. Haskell Architects and Porter Architects were appointed in June 2025 as lead designers, with final designs expected by mid-2026. This Tier One Advocacy Priority Project is seeking federal and state government funding partnerships.
Ballarat Line Upgrade
Upgrade of the Ballarat regional rail line between Deer Park West/Melton and Ballarat completed in early 2021. Works delivered 18 km of duplicated track between Deer Park West and Melton, new Cobblebank Station, upgrades at Bacchus Marsh, Ballan, Rockbank and Wendouree, passing loops at Ballan and Millbrook, new stabling at Maddingley, and signalling and track improvements. The upgrade enabled around 135 extra weekly services across the line with peak services about every 20 minutes and off-peak about every 40 minutes.
Western Victoria Aviation Precinct Ballarat
Multi-stage aviation infrastructure upgrade at Ballarat Airport. Stage 1 runway extension (1,300m to 1,800m) completed March 2024. Stage 2 involves reconstruction and strengthening of the existing 1,250m runway section to accommodate large turboprop and regional jet aircraft. Terminal upgrade project underway to create aeromedical patient transfer and emergency services facility. Projects will enable commercial freight operations, enhanced emergency services capability including large aerial firefighting tankers, and potential future interstate passenger services for Western Victoria region.
Duplication of Dyson Drive
Duplication of Dyson Drive between Remembrance Drive and Ballarat-Carngham Road to create a dual carriageway with two service lanes. This project forms the next stage of the 12-kilometre Ballarat Link Road arterial connection in Ballarat's west. The duplication will transform this rural road into an urban arterial capable of supporting demand from a growing population. Traffic has increased from 6,529 vehicles per day in 2016 to 10,490 per day in 2021. The project will improve safety, reduce congestion, and support economic and residential growth in the Ballarat West Growth Area, connecting the Western Freeway, Ballarat Airport, Ballarat West Employment Zone, and major regional highways. Construction is expected to generate 560 jobs (196 direct and 364 indirect) and add $69.64 million in value to the Ballarat economy.
Employment
Employment performance in Lake Gardens exceeds national averages across key labour market indicators
Lake Gardens has a well-educated workforce with essential services sectors well represented. Its unemployment rate is 2.1%, according to AreaSearch's aggregation of statistical area data. As of December 2025825 residents are employed while the unemployment rate is 1.6% lower than Regional Vic.'s rate of 3.7%.
Workforce participation in Lake Gardens is somewhat below standard at 56.3%, compared to Regional Vic.'s 61.0%. Based on Census responses, 23.9% of residents work from home. Employment among residents is concentrated in health care & social assistance, education & training, and accommodation & food. The area has a particular employment specialization in professional & technical services, with an employment share 1.8 times the regional level.
In contrast, agriculture, forestry & fishing employs only 1.1% of local workers, below Regional Vic.'s 7.5%. The ratio of 1.0 workers per resident indicates substantial local employment opportunities. During the year to December 2025, the labour force decreased by 0.9%, with employment decreasing by 0.6%, causing unemployment to fall by 0.3 percentage points. Jobs and Skills Australia's national employment forecasts from May-25 suggest that national employment should expand by 6.6% over five years and 14.7% over ten years. Applying these projections to Lake Gardens' employment mix suggests local employment could increase by 6.8% over five years and 14.2% over ten years, though these are simple weighting extrapolations for illustrative purposes only and do not account for localised population projections.
Frequently Asked Questions - Employment
Income
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for financial year 2023, Lake Gardens had a median income among taxpayers of $45,983 with an average income standing at $58,833. This is below the national average and compares to levels of $50,954 and $62,728 across Regional Vic. respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 9.62% since financial year 2023, current estimates would be approximately $50,407 (median) and $64,493 (average) as of March 2026. According to the 2021 Census figures, household incomes rank at the 37th percentile, family incomes at the 38th percentile, and personal incomes at the 41st percentile in Lake Gardens. Income analysis shows that 27.7% of locals (476 people) fall into the $1,500 - 2,999 income category. Housing costs are manageable with 87.6% retained, but disposable income is below average at the 41st percentile. The area's SEIFA income ranking places it in the 7th decile.
Frequently Asked Questions - Income
Housing
Lake Gardens is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership
The dwelling structure in Lake Gardens, as per the latest Census, consisted of 92.7% houses and 7.3% other dwellings (semi-detached, apartments, 'other' dwellings). This compares to Regional Vic.'s 90.1% houses and 9.9% other dwellings. Home ownership in Lake Gardens stood at 49.6%, with mortgaged dwellings at 21.7% and rented ones at 28.7%. The median monthly mortgage repayment was $1,733, higher than Regional Vic.'s average of $1,430. The median weekly rent in Lake Gardens was recorded as $360, compared to Regional Vic.'s $285. Nationally, Lake Gardens' mortgage repayments were lower than the Australian average of $1,863, and rents were less than the national figure of $375.
Frequently Asked Questions - Housing
Household Composition
Lake Gardens has a typical household mix, with a lower-than-average median household size
Family households constitute 69.3% of all households, consisting of 26.7% couples with children, 32.5% couples without children, and 9.2% single parent families. Non-family households account for the remaining 30.7%, with lone person households at 28.8% and group households making up 1.7% of the total. The median household size is 2.3 people, which is smaller than the Regional Vic. average of 2.4.
Frequently Asked Questions - Households
Local Schools & Education
Educational attainment in Lake Gardens aligns closely with national averages, showing typical qualification patterns and performance metrics
In Lake Gardens, residents aged 15 and above have a notable educational advantage with 34.7% holding university qualifications, compared to 21.7% in the Rest of Vic. and 24.6% in the SA4 region. Bachelor degrees are the most common at 20.5%, followed by postgraduate qualifications (9.0%) and graduate diplomas (5.2%). Vocational credentials are also prevalent, with 27.9% of residents holding such qualifications - advanced diplomas (12.2%) and certificates (15.7%). Educational participation is high, with 25.9% of residents currently enrolled in formal education.
This includes 10.8% in secondary education, 5.9% in primary education, and 5.2% 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
Lake Gardens has six operational public transport stops. These are served by one route in total, offering 119 weekly passenger trips combined. Transport accessibility is moderate, with residents typically residing 463 meters from the nearest stop. As a predominantly residential area, most commuters travel outward. Cars remain the primary mode of transportation at 93%. The average vehicle ownership per dwelling is 1.3, lower than the regional norm.
According to the 2021 Census, 23.9% of residents work from home, which may be influenced by COVID-19 conditions. On average, there are 17 trips daily across all routes, equating to about 19 weekly trips per individual stop.
Frequently Asked Questions - Transport
Transport Stops Detail
Health
The level of general health in Lake Gardens is notably higher than the national average with both young and old age cohorts seeing low prevalence of common health conditions
Lake Gardens exhibits superior health outcomes, as evaluated by AreaSearch's analysis of mortality rates and chronic condition prevalence. Both younger and older age groups exhibit low prevalence of common health conditions.
Approximately 50% (~863 people) have private health cover, lower than the national average of 55.7%. The most prevalent medical conditions are arthritis (10.2%) and asthma (8.3%). 62.7% report being free from medical ailments, comparable to Regional Vic.'s 63.4%. Working-age residents show a higher-than-average prevalence of chronic health conditions. Lake Gardens has 28.6% (492 people) aged 65 and over, exceeding Regional Vic.'s 23.9%. Health outcomes among seniors are above average, aligning with national rankings for the general population.
Frequently Asked Questions - Health
Cultural Diversity
In terms of cultural diversity, Lake Gardens records figures broadly comparable to the national average, as found in AreaSearch's assessment of a number of language and cultural background related metrics
Lake Gardens showed cultural diversity above average, with 19.3% born overseas and 13.3% speaking a language other than English at home. Christianity was the predominant religion, at 54.9%. Judaism was overrepresented at 0.2%, compared to Regional Vic's 0.1%.
Top ancestry groups were English (28.5%), Australian (23.9%), and Irish (12.5%). Scottish (11.1%) and Welsh (0.8%) were notably overrepresented, while Dutch representation matched the regional average at 1.7%.
Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity
Age
Lake Gardens ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide
Lake Gardens has a median age of 50, which is higher than Regional Vic.'s figure of 43 and well above the national average of 38. The age group of 75-84 shows strong representation at 13.3%, compared to Regional Vic., while the 35-44 cohort is less prevalent at 9.4%. This 75-84 concentration is significantly higher than the national figure of 6.1%. According to the 2021 Census, the 35 to 44 age group has grown from 8.2% to 9.4%, and the 75 to 84 cohort has increased from 12.1% to 13.3%. Conversely, the 45 to 54 cohort has declined from 14.6% to 13.5%. Demographic modeling indicates that Lake Gardens' age profile will significantly change by 2041. The 25 to 34 age cohort is projected to increase markedly, with an addition of 81 people (56%), from 144 to 226. Conversely, population declines are projected for the 15 to 24 and 55 to 64 cohorts.