Suburb profile · Greater Darwin
Malak has an estimated 3,284 residents, up 9.0% since the 2021 Census, with 6 projects tracked in the area around Malak.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The suburb of Malak is located 10.1 kilometres northeast from Darwin CBD. Based on AreaSearch's analysis of aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter, its population is estimated at around 3,284 as of Aug 2026. This is an increase of 271 people (9.0%) since the 2021 Census, when 3,013 people were recorded. Market characteristics include a strong semi-detached presence, an above-average renting population, notable public administration employment, elevated utilities employment and above-average household size. The area also has pronounced representation of residents aged 5 to 14yo.
Residents have a comparatively young age profile, with a median age of 35, and group households make up a large part of the community. Population growth has been limited. Malak - Marrara in NT, Australia is described as a serene suburban area with parks, reserves and recreational spaces for outdoor activities, alongside a diverse and friendly community.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of Malak is located 10.1 kilometres northeast from Darwin CBD. Based on AreaSearch's analysis of aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter, its population is estimated at around 3,284 as of Aug 2026. This is an increase of 271 people (9.0%) since the 2021 Census, when 3,013 people were recorded. Market characteristics include a strong semi-detached presence, an above-average renting population, notable public administration employment, elevated utilities employment and above-average household size. The area also has pronounced representation of residents aged 5 to 14yo.
Residents have a comparatively young age profile, with a median age of 35, and group households make up a large part of the community. Population growth has been limited. Malak - Marrara in NT, Australia is described as a serene suburban area with parks, reserves and recreational spaces for outdoor activities, alongside a diverse and friendly community.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 3,459 in 2006 and 3,284 in 2025. The Aug 2026 estimate (ABS June 2025 base) is the same.
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 35 to 44, 15.5%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 30.5%.
Malak ranks in the 79th percentile nationally for transport & access and the 69th for cultural diversity.
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.
AreaSearch tracks 6 projects in and around Malak, 1 of them under construction.
A purpose-built facility for young people aged 10 to 17 at Leanyer Recreation Park in Darwin's northern suburbs, providing a safe, structured space for after-hours and school holiday programs, mentoring, skill development, and support services.
Construction of a new three-storey mental health inpatient facility providing acute inpatient beds and a Stabilisation Assessment and Referral Area (SARA). The facility connects to the Emergency Department via an elevated enclosed walkway, with internal fitouts currently progressing toward completion.
Upgrade of the existing wastewater treatment plant and associated pumping stations and rising mains, aimed at increasing robustness, optimizing treatment, improving environmental outcomes, and catering for future population growth until 2030. It was the largest sewer project ever undertaken by NT Power and Water Corporation.
The Northern Territory Government is constructing a new classroom building at Leanyer Primary School.
A new $26.8 million aquatic and leisure centre in Casuarina, featuring an 8-lane 50m pool, a resort-style lagoon pool, a learn-to-swim pool, wet and dry play areas, a cafe, BBQ facilities, a gymnasium, and a basketball 3-on-3 court. The project was funded by the City of Darwin and the Australian Government.
Construction of approximately 430 metres of replacement DN150 DICL water main in Edgeview Court, Leanyer, including decommissioning and removal of the existing asbestos water main.
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 1 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2026 1. 1 have no completion year.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS building approvals | 1.0 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 11th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 3 | ABS building approvals | 9th percentile nationally |
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Malak area has seen 17 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Malak's current population of 3,284 has been supported by 3 approvals on average over recent years.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Malak's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 3, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Malak has grown by approximately 101 people, while 17 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 5.9 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Malak include: Northern Suburbs Youth Hub (Approved); Berrimah North Area Plan (Approved); Royal Darwin Hospital Mental Health Inpatient Unit and CSSD Upgrade (Construction); Darwin Corporate Park (Approved); and Darwin Mid Suburbs Area Plan (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Malak spans multiple sectors including Precincts & Urban Renewal, Ports, Marinas, Fisheries & Aquaculture, and Communities, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the suburb of Malak currently ranks below national averages at the 14th percentile.
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.
Malak is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,284 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +9.0% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,877 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 68th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | -0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 3,013 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 271 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | -0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 1.75 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Malak was estimated to be approximately 3,284 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 3,284 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Malak has added approximately 271 people and shown a 8.99% increase from the 3,013 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Malak is estimated at 1,877 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Malak has shown a compound annual growth rate of -0.1% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Malak is driven by: Overseas migration (56.00000000000001%), Natural increase (44.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 56.00000000000001% of overall population gains.
Malak's population is younger than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 35 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 24th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 14.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 21.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 24.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 52.0% | 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 | 35 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 6.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 14.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 12.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 12.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 15.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 13.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 11.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 8.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 4.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Malak at 35 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 35 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 35 years as at August 2026, Malak is comparable to the Greater Darwin 2021 Census average (34 years) yet 3 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Malak compared to the Greater Darwin region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 8.6% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Malak compared to the Greater Darwin region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 12.2% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Malak show significant variance compared to Greater Darwin. The most over-represented age group is 85+ year-olds (1.2% vs 0.8%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 21.4% of the population in the suburb of Malak as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 14.2% of the population in the suburb of Malak as at August 2026.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $56,699 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 39th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $64,254 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,676 | 2021 Census, weekly | 45th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $831 | 2021 Census, weekly | 55th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 24.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,051 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 25.7% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Malak is approximately $60,214. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $56,699.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Malak is approximately $68,238. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $64,254.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Malak is approximately $60,214 compared to $74,514 in Greater Darwin. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $56,699 and $70,164 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Malak is approximately $68,238 compared to $86,622 in Greater Darwin. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $64,254 and $81,565 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Malak's households (~30.5% / 312 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Malak is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 30.5% of households. In comparison, Greater Darwin's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 36.7% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Malak is $1,676/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Malak is $2,051/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Malak is $831/wk.
The suburb of Malak's income level is below the national average according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The suburb of Malak's median income among taxpayers is $56,699 and the average income stands at $64,254, which compares to figures for Greater Darwin's of $70,164 and $81,565 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.2% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $60,214 (median) and $68,238 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Malak is $5,997 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Malak's disposable income is $5,997 compared to $8,044 for Greater Darwin, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment drivers in Malak are experiencing difficulties, placing it among the bottom 12% of areas assessed across Australia.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 10.1% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 65.6% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 1,525 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 2,678 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 1,697 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Malak has approximately 1,525 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 10.1%. The elevated unemployment rate suggests challenging labour market conditions. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Malak stands at 10.1%, which is 6.7 percentage points above Greater Darwin's rate of 3.5%. 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 Malak is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are public administration & safety (15.4% of employment), health care & social assistance (14.4%), and education & training (11.2%). Other significant employers include retail trade and construction.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Malak has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Greater Darwin saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Malak is 65.6%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate trailing the Greater Darwin average of 72.9%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The suburb of Malak shows notable specialisation in education & training, which employs 11.2% of the local workforce compared to 8.7% across Greater Darwin. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The suburb of Malak's employment market shows weaker performance compared to most areas nationally. This suggests the need for targeted economic development initiatives. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 12.8% decline, ranking 37th out of 37 regions nationally.
Education in Malak: university qualifications 23.4%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 825.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 15.3% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 4.7% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 23.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 26.1% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 3.4% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 9.4% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 41.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 36.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 4.6% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 14.1% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 10.7% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
23.4% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Malak have university qualifications, compared to 31.3% in Greater Darwin.
41.1% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Malak have no formal qualifications, compared to 32.6% in Greater Darwin.
The suburb of Malak ranks in the 27th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Malak are: Certificate (26.1%), Bachelor Degree (15.3%), Advanced Diploma (9.4%).
36.4% of the population in the suburb of Malak is currently engaged in formal education, including 14.1% in primary school, 10.7% in secondary school, 4.6% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Malak is 825, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 3 schools within the suburb of Malak, with a combined enrollment of approximately 596 students.
The suburb of Malak includes 1 primary school, 2 secondary schools.
Malak features high concentrations of single parent families and group households but relatively few couples without children, with a larger average household size than Greater Darwin.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.8 people | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 24.1% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 29.3% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 20.3% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 19.6% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 5.0% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,024 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,116 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 71.2% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.8 per family | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Malak had 1,024 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 9.0% to an estimated 1,116 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Malak is 2.8 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Darwin and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 71.2% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (24.1%), group households (5.0%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 729 family households, couples with children account for 29.3% of all households, couples without children at home 20.3%, and single parent families 19.6%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Darwin, the suburb of Malak 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 Malak have an average of 1.8 children, slightly above the Greater Darwin average of 1.4. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 38.3% of the adult population are currently married, while 45.4% have never married. This compares to 42.3% married and 43.1% never married across Greater Darwin.
Single-person households represent 24.1% of all households in the suburb of Malak, similar to the average for Greater Darwin of 23.4%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 5.0% of households, slightly below the Greater Darwin average of 5.6%.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Malak was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 28.4% | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 27.9% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 72.1% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 83.2% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 71.6% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 14.5% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
Malak was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 28.4% of its population born overseas and 27.9% speaking a language other than English at home.
The main religion in Malak was found to be Christianity, which makes up 51.7% of people in Malak. This compares to 41.7% across Greater Darwin.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Malak are Australian, comprising 20.7% of the population, English, comprising 16.6% of the population, which is notably lower than Greater Darwin's 21.7%, and Other, comprising 15.4% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Filipino is notably overrepresented at 5.3% of Malak (vs 3.8% across Greater Darwin), Australian Aboriginal at 14.5% (vs 7.0%) and Maori at 0.9% (vs 0.6%).
28.4% of the suburb of Malak population was born overseas, compared to 30.3% across Greater Darwin.
27.9% of the population in the suburb of Malak speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 26.1% in Greater Darwin.
14.5% of the suburb of Malak population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 7.0% in Greater Darwin.
83.2% of the suburb of Malak population holds citizenship, compared to 77.8% in Greater Darwin.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Malak is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 42.3% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 21.1% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 75.2% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,950 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 59th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 36.6% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 24.8% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $301 | 2021 Census, weekly | 28th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 18.0% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 26.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 73rd percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.9 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Malak, 21.1% of homes are owned outright, 36.6% are owned with a mortgage, and 42.3% are rented.
According to the latest data, 75.2% of dwellings in the suburb of Malak are houses.
In the suburb of Malak, 0.0% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 24.8% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Malak stands at 21.1%, compared to 17.9% in Greater Darwin.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Malak is $1,950, compared to $2,100 in Greater Darwin.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Malak is $1,265, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Malak, households with mortgages typically spend 26.8% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 18.0% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Malak is 0.9, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Malak shows mortgage holders spending 26.8% of income on repayments (vs 21.9% in Greater Darwin), while renters spend 18.0% of income on rent (vs 17.4% in Greater Darwin).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Malak consists of 75.2% detached houses, 24.8% semi-detached dwellings, 0.0% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Malak consumes approximately 17.4% of median household income ($7,257 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Malak show attached dwellings contributing 40% of approvals compared to 25% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 60% of applications versus 75% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Health performance in Malak is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 50.4% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 30th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 72.7% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 5.4% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 77.1% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.7% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
Around 50.4% of people in the suburb of Malak are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 58.1% in Greater Darwin.
In the suburb of Malak, 5.4% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 3.7% of people in Greater Darwin require similar assistance.
6.3% of people in the suburb of Malak are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.1% of the population across Greater Darwin is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 5.5% of the suburb of Malak population, while in Greater Darwin, 3.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.6% of people in the suburb of Malak have heart disease. Across Greater Darwin,2.5% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Malak, 50.4% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Darwin sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 58.1%.
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 | 79 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 79th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 20 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 21st percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 2,010 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 50th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 165 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 34 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.4 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 3.4% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 20 public transport stops within the suburb of Malak.
The suburb of Malak has 2,010 weekly trips across 34 routes, averaging 287 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 156 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 353 m away and the nearest child care centre 421 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 20 stops nearby, 2,010 weekly trips, access rating 79 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 4 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 4th percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 353 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 421 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 545 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 3.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 3.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 3.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 4.9 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 is 1 long day care centre with 90 places in Malak, about 2.4 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
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An area report on Malak is built to order and emailed to you.
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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 Malak.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Malak recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Malak has limited levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 14th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Malak is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
Malak's population is younger than the national pattern.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
Employment drivers in Malak are experiencing difficulties, placing it among the bottom 12% of areas assessed across Australia.
Education in Malak: university qualifications 23.4%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 825.
Malak features high concentrations of single parent families and group households but relatively few couples without children, with a larger average household size than Greater Darwin.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Malak was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Malak is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Malak is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent 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 below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Malak has an estimated 3,284 residents, up 9.0% since the 2021 Census, with 6 projects tracked in the area around Malak.
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 Malak.
Data currency
Refreshed . Population and age estimated to Aug 2026 and taxable income FY 2024. Housing 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 (SAL70169). 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) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, infrastructure projects, employment, households, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Malak 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 Malak 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.
