Meridan Plains

Suburb (SAL)

Rest of Qld / Caloundra

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Data Sources ABSValuer GeneralRental BoardACARA Newest Aug 2026 · Refreshed ABS QuickStats SAL31807 How we calculate this
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Suburb (SAL) Boundary Analysis

This analysis uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, which can materially differ from Statistical Areas (SA2) even when sharing the same name.

SAL boundaries are defined by Australia Post and the Australian Bureau of Statistics to represent commonly-known suburb names used in postal addresses.

Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census data collection and may combine multiple suburbs or use different geographic boundaries. For comprehensive analysis, consider reviewing both boundary types if available.

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Sales ActivityProperty Sales Trends in Meridan Plains

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DemographicsPopulation Growth in Meridan Plains

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Meridan Plains has an estimated 4,570 residents. That puts 231 residents on each square kilometre. Population is estimated from ABS Estimated Resident Population releases and GNAF address data, re-based from the 2021 Census and updated annually.

Detail

Following an examination of ABS population updates for the wider region and new address validations by AreaSearch since the Census, the suburb of Meridan Plains is estimated to have a population of 4,570 as of May 2026. This represents a contraction of 19 people (0.4%) from the 2021 Census, which counted 4,589 residents. This shift is calculated from a resident population of 4,560 estimated by AreaSearch using the latest ERP data release from the ABS (June 2025) along with 64 validated new addresses added since the Census. This population level translates to a density ratio of 231 persons per square kilometer, indicating a low density with space for potential expansion.

Over the last decade, the suburb of Meridan Plains has shown stable growth with a 3.0% compound annual growth rate, exceeding the SA4 region. Population expansion in the area was mostly fueled by interstate migration, which accounted for approximately 54.0% of total gains in recent times. AreaSearch utilizes ABS/Geoscience Australia projections for each SA2 area, which were published in 2024 using 2022 as the base year. For SA2 areas excluded from this dataset, and for years after 2032, Queensland State Government projections released in 2023 and based on 2021 data are used. Note that these state projections do not provide details by age group; therefore, AreaSearch applies proportional growth weightings matching the ABS Greater Capital Region projections (published in 2023, based on 2022 data) for each age cohort. Looking at future demographic trends, population growth is anticipated to be slightly below the median for non-metropolitan locations, with the suburb of Meridan Plains projected to add 306 persons by 2041 under aggregated SA2-level projections, which is an increase of 6.5% overall across the 16 years.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the suburb of Meridan Plains?
Total population for the suburb of Meridan Plains was estimated to be approximately 4,570 as at May 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 4,560 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the suburb of Meridan Plains changed since 2021?
The suburb of meridan plains has lost approximately 19 people and shown a 0.41% decrease from the 4,589 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
The population density in the suburb of Meridan Plains is estimated at 231 persons per square kilometer based on the latest population estimate.
How much has the population grown over the past 10 years in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Meridan Plains has shown a compound annual growth rate of 3.0% per annum.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
Population growth in the suburb of Meridan Plains is driven by: Interstate migration (54.0%), Overseas migration (46.0%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 54.0% of overall population gains.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Meridan Plains

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48 new dwellings have been approved in Meridan Plains over the past five years, an average of 9 a year. That is 2.1 approvals per 1,000 residents. Approvals are currently running at an annualised 1, well below that longer-run average. Figures come from ABS building approvals aggregated to this Suburb (SAL) boundary and are updated monthly as the ABS releases them.

Detail

Based on AreaSearch analysis of ABS building approvals allocated from statistical areas, Meridan Plains averages approximately 9 residential property approvals annually, totaling 48 homes approved over the past 5 financial years (between FY-21 and FY-25) and 1 during the current FY-26. With an average of 1.6 new residents per constructed dwelling over the past 5 financial years (between FY-21 and FY-25), demand and supply appear closely matched, fostering stable market conditions, though recent data points to a moderation to -4.7 people per dwelling over the last 2 financial years, indicating an improved balance.

Newly built properties average $606,000 in value, highlighting a developer focus on the premium segment with high-end offerings. Furthermore, $17,000 in commercial development approvals was registered this financial year, confirming the residential character of the locality. Relative to Rest of Qld, Meridan Plains displays very quiet development activity (86.0% below the regional average per capita). This low volume of new completions generally supports demand and prices for existing stock. The level of activity is also below the national average, indicating a mature market and potential planning limitations. New building approvals consist of 31.0% detached houses and 69.0% townhouses or apartments. This pivot toward higher-density options offers affordable entry points and attracts downsizers, investors, and first-time buyers. This represents a clear shift from the current housing stock (currently 72.0% houses), pointing to a decrease in available development land and reflecting changing lifestyle choices and affordability pressures. The ratio of 510 people in the locality per single dwelling approval highlights a quiet, low-activity construction environment. Future forecasts suggest Meridan Plains will add 296 residents by 2041 (starting from the most recent AreaSearch quarterly estimate). Home building is continuing at a reasonable rate relative to population growth, though buyers might face increased competition as the population expands.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the suburb of Meridan Plains recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the suburb of Meridan Plains area has seen 18 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Meridan Plains's current population of 4,570 has been supported by 9 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the suburb of Meridan Plains's development activity compare to the broader region?
The suburb of Meridan Plains has seen 0.21 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.61 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 509 people in the suburb of Meridan Plains, compared to one for every 183 in the broader region.
Is the suburb of Meridan Plains keeping up with housing demand?
With the population expected to increase by 296 people by 2041, around 148 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels may be insufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling. This indicates potential housing shortages if current approval trends continue.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Meridan Plains's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 9, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
How many dwellings will be needed to accommodate future population growth in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
The population in the suburb of Meridan Plains is expected to grow by 296 people by 2041, necessitating approximately 148 new dwellings. This calculation is based on the current census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling in the area.
How does recent development compare to population growth in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Meridan Plains has grown by approximately 3,816 people, while 48 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 79.5 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
Are there opportunities for residential developers in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 9 approvals per year and a population of 4,570, there appears to be a supply shortfall relative to projected demand, presenting strong opportunities for residential developers. With the population expected to increase by 296 people by 2041, around 148 new dwellings will be necessary. Current approval trends may be insufficient to meet forecast demand, indicating strong development opportunities.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Meridan Plains

Development applications around Meridan Plains

Development approvals is a new addition to AreaSearch. We’re actively expanding council coverage and refining the dataset — details and statuses for some councils may be partial. Check back regularly for the latest pipeline.
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SOURCE: Planning portals and council registers, compiled by AreaSearch. Distance & bearing measured from the suburb midpoint.

Project PipelineInfrastructure & Major Projects in Meridan Plains

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AreaSearch tracks 6 current infrastructure and development projects inside Meridan Plains, worth an estimated $468 million. A further 59 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $16.5 billion. 30 are already under construction and 21 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans residential development, transport & logistics and communities, precincts & urban renewal. Records are compiled from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, council planning portals and public announcements, reviewed and updated daily, then ranked by proximity, construction stage, completion horizon and project scale.

Detail

Local infrastructure projects, major works, and planning changes are major drivers of regional performance. AreaSearch has identified 43 active projects that are expected to impact the area. Prominent examples include Aura District Sports Parks, Heritage Lane Estate Little Mountain, Sunshine Coast Health Precinct, and Bells Creek Arterial Road, with the subsequent list detailing the projects of highest relevance.

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

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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Meridan Plains?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Meridan Plains include: Aura District Sports Parks (Construction); Heritage Lane Estate Little Mountain (Under Assessment); Sunshine Coast Health Precinct (Construction); Bells Creek Arterial Road (Construction); and Honey Farm Sport and Recreation Precinct (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the suburb of Meridan Plains?
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Meridan Plains spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Transport & Logistics, and Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the suburb of Meridan Plains?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates substantial capital deployment exceeding $22.6 billion in projects that will impact the extended area, with a notable concentration of investment within the immediate the suburb of Meridan Plains vicinity.
How does the suburb of Meridan Plains's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
The suburb of Meridan Plains ranks in the top 10% nationally for infrastructure development, reflecting exceptional investment activity compared to similar areas across the country.
Honey Farm Sport and Recreation Precinct
Category: Sports & Recreation
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2031
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A 75-hectare regional sport and recreation precinct featuring football and cricket fields, a 1.8km criterium cycling track, youth plaza for skate and parkour, and all-abilities playgrounds. The precinct includes nature trails, wetlands, and a proposed 12-court indoor sports centre designed to host regional and potentially 2032 Olympic events. Stage 1 works, including bulk earthworks, road networks, and field lighting, are currently in progress with the first sports fields targeted to be operational by late 2026.

Sports & Recreation

Meridan Village (Parklands Marketplace) Expansion
Category: Retail
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2023
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Neighbourhood shopping centre in Meridan Plains anchored by Aldi and Parklands Tavern. Local sources indicate additional small-format retail and dining tenancies were added to support the growing catchment, with works understood to be completed by 2023.

Retail

Meridan Plains Extractive Resource Area
Category: Manufacturing
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Council-designated key resource area (KRA 49) protecting 60 to 100 million tonnes of construction sand within a 1,095 ha footprint on the Mooloolah River floodplain. Identified as Precinct RUR1 under the Sunshine Coast Planning Scheme 2014 and reinforced by the SEQ Regional Plan 2017 (ShapingSEQ). Planning scheme provisions govern extraction setbacks, buffers and an end-use concept featuring lakes and residual open land. The resource is expected to supply the Sunshine Coast and broader SEQ region for 50 to 100 years.No development application has been lodged; the site remains a planning-protected reserve pending future extraction proposals.

Manufacturing

Sunshine Coast Health Precinct
Category: Health
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The Sunshine Coast Health Precinct at Birtinya is one of Australia's largest health and medical hubs, anchored by the Sunshine Coast University Hospital (SCUH), the Sunshine Coast University Private Hospital (operated by Ramsay Health Care), and the Sunshine Coast Health Institute. SCUH opened in March 2017 with 450 beds and had expanded to 728 inpatient beds by mid-2025, with a planned final capacity of 738 beds. The precinct serves a catchment of around 450,000 residents across the Sunshine Coast and Gympie regions and supports tertiary services including a comprehensive cancer centre, regional trauma service, the Thompson Institute for mental health research, the Adem Crosby Centre, and the Kamala mental health unit.Development of the precinct is forecast to contribute 3.2 billion AUD to the Sunshine Coast economy and 447 million AUD each year after completion. Adjacent facilities include the Vitality Village integrated community health building (opened mid-2021) and the 17-hectare Health Hub greenfield precinct, which is being progressively developed with up to 32,000 square metres of medical, research, allied health and consulting space, including a proposed 8-storey, 10,000 square metre mental health facility led by Thompson Brain and Mind Healthcare. Clinical training and research are delivered in partnership with the University of the Sunshine Coast, Griffith University and TAFE Queensland. The neighbouring Birtinya Town Centre masterplan (Stockland) continues to add retail, residential and commercial floorspace surrounding the precinct, with a refreshed Temporary Local Planning Instrument approved by the State in September 2025 to lift residential density.

Health

Creekwood Estate
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2021
Source / Links: Link 1   

Completed masterplanned residential estate featuring townhouses and family homes designed for families and young professionals on the Sunshine Coast. The estate includes parks, natural playground, tennis courts, skate park, community gardens, wetlands, and recreational facilities. All stages sold out with final precinct Creekwood Central completed in 2021.

Residential Development

Sunshine Coast Industrial Park
Category: Business Parks & Technology Hubs
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   

The Sunshine Coast Industrial Park is a 215-hectare major regional industrial hub delivered by Economic Development Queensland. Designed for medium to high-impact manufacturing, logistics, and large-scale industrial activities, Stage 2 delivers fully serviced industrial lots with direct Bruce Highway access.

Business Parks & Technology Hubs

Birtinya Social Housing Project
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A five-storey social housing development delivering 63 units with a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom options. Designed to be fully accessible for seniors and people with disabilities, the complex is located on a 2622sqm block near the Sunshine Coast University Hospital. It features communal areas to build community and includes at least 61 car parking spaces. The basement structure is complete, with overall completion due mid-2026.

Residential Development

Heritage Lane Estate Little Mountain
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Under Assessment | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   

Exclusive residential estate featuring only 13 lots with Lot 13 being 1535sqm. Premium land parcels designed for custom homes in established Little Mountain location with bushland backdrop and no passing traffic.

Residential Development

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Meridan Plains

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2,321 residents of Meridan Plains are employed, from a labour force of 2,388. Unemployment sits at 2.8%, with participation at 65.1%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 6.8% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth. Unemployment and labour force come from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, updated quarterly; the industry and occupation profile is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

Meridan Plains has a skilled workforce with strong representation in essential services, and an unemployment rate of only 2.8%, according to AreaSearch aggregations of statistical area data. As of March 2026, 2,321 residents are employed, which places the unemployment rate at 1.1% below Regional Qld's rate of 3.9%, while workforce participation is very close to Regional Qld's 64.3%. Census data indicates a low 11.3% of residents work from home, although the influence of Covid-19 lockdowns should be noted. The primary employment sectors for residents are health care & social assistance, construction, and retail trade.

The community displays a strong specialization in health care & social assistance, with its employment share reaching 1.4 times the regional average. Conversely, agriculture, forestry & fishing employs only 1.0% of local workers, which is below the Regional Qld level of 4.5%. Even though there are local job opportunities in the area, a high proportion of residents commute to work in other locations, based on the ratio of the Census working population to local residents. According to AreaSearch analysis of SALM and ABS data aggregated from broader statistical regions, during the year ending March 2026, the local workforce contracted by 2.9% while employment dropped by 3.6%, leading to a rise in the unemployment rate of 0.8 percentage points. In contrast, Regional Qld experienced employment growth of 0.1%, workforce expansion of 0.3%, and a 0.1 percentage point increase in unemployment. Jobs and Skills Australia's national employment projections from May-25 offer additional context on future demand in Meridan Plains. These forecasts, spanning five and ten years, have been applied to the local workforce structure to model growth. While national employment is projected to grow by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, growth rates vary significantly by sector. Applying these industry-level projections to the local employment mix suggests employment should rise by 6.8% over five years and 14.2% over ten years (note that this is a basic weighted extrapolation for illustration and does not incorporate localized population growth projections).

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
As of March 2026, the suburb of Meridan Plains has approximately 2,321 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.8%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
How does the suburb of Meridan Plains's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Meridan Plains stands at 2.8%, which is 1.1 percentage points below Regional Qld's rate of 3.9%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
What are the major employment sectors in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
The employment landscape in the suburb of Meridan Plains is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (21.8% of employment), construction (12.1%), and retail trade (11.4%). Other significant employers include accommodation & food and education & training.
How has employment changed recently in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Meridan Plains has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. As a result, the unemployment rate has rise. By comparison, Regional Qld saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
What is the workforce participation rate in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Meridan Plains is 65.1%, 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 leading the Regional Qld average of 64.3%, showing similar workforce dynamics to the broader region.
Which industries are over-represented in the suburb of Meridan Plains's employment market?
The suburb of meridan plains shows notable specialization in health care & social assistance, which employs 21.8% of the local workforce compared to 16.1% regionally. This moderate specialization indicates some local strength in the sector.
What are the employment growth prospects for the suburb of Meridan Plains?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the suburb of Meridan Plains's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 6.8% over the next five years and 14.2% over ten years. This exceeds the national forecast of 6.6% over five years, suggesting the area's industry composition is well-positioned for future growth. Steady growth is anticipated across multiple sectors, providing diverse employment opportunities.
How does the job market in the suburb of Meridan Plains compare nationally?
The suburb of meridan plains's employment market shows above-average performance nationally, placing in the top half of areas assessed. Employment indicators suggest healthy labour market conditions relative to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 0.5% decline, ranking 15.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
Skilled workers will find good opportunities in the suburb of Meridan Plains, with skilled sectors accounting for 38.6% of employment. Key sectors for skilled workers include health care & social assistance (21.8%), education & training (8.1%), and professional & technical (4.9%). With projected employment growth of 6.8% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Meridan Plains

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Median household income in Meridan Plains is $1,529 a week (about $80,000 a year), with median personal income at $777 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $51,275 a year against an average of $65,465. Household income is from the 2021 Census; taxable income is from ATO Taxation Statistics for the latest financial year available, indexed forward using the ABS Wage Price Index.

Detail

Income levels in the suburb of Meridan Plains are slightly below the national average based on the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for financial year 2023. The median income among taxpayers in the suburb of Meridan Plains is $51,275, while the average income is $65,465, compared to Regional Qld figures of $53,146 and $66,593 respectively. Adjusted for Wage Price Index growth of 11.36% since financial year 2023, current estimates would be roughly $57,100 for the median and $72,902 for the average as of March 2026. Census findings show household, family, and individual incomes are all modest in Meridan Plains, ranking between the 37th and 44th percentiles.

The weekly income distribution is dominated by the $1,500 - 2,999 bracket, which contains 34.8% of residents (1,590 people), consistent with the broader area where this cohort accounts for 31.7%. Housing costs present a heavy burden, leaving only 77.3% of income available, which ranks at the 29th percentile, while the area's SEIFA income score falls in the 5th decile.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Meridan Plains is approximately $57,100. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $51,275.
What is the average taxable income in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Meridan Plains is approximately $72,902. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $65,465.
How does the median taxable income in the suburb of Meridan Plains compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Meridan Plains is approximately $57,100 compared to $59,183 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $51,275 and $53,146 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the suburb of Meridan Plains compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Meridan Plains is approximately $72,902 compared to $74,158 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $65,465 and $66,593 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the suburb of Meridan Plains according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~34.8% / 1,590 persons) of the suburb of Meridan Plains's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the suburb of Meridan Plains compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the suburb of Meridan Plains is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 34.8% of the population. In comparison, Regional Qld's largest income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 31.7% of its population, according to the 2021 Census.
What is the median household income in the suburb of Meridan Plains according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Meridan Plains is $1,529/wk.
What is the median family income in the suburb of Meridan Plains according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Meridan Plains is $1,820/wk.
What is the median personal income in the suburb of Meridan Plains according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Meridan Plains is $777/wk.
How does the suburb of Meridan Plains's income rank nationally?
The suburb of Meridan Plains's income level is slightly lower than average on a national basis according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-23. The suburb of Meridan Plains's median income among taxpayers is $51,275 and the average income stands at $65,465, which compares to figures for Regional Qld's of $53,146 and $66,593 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 11.36% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $57,100 (median) and $72,902 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Meridan Plains is $5,122 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the suburb of Meridan Plains's disposable income compare to the region?
The suburb of meridan plains's disposable income is $5,122 compared to $5,480 for Regional Qld, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Meridan Plains

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Meridan Plains had 1,692 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 72% detached houses and 4% apartments. 33% are owned with a mortgage, 45% rented and 22% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $460 a week and the median mortgage repayment $1,850 a month, a total housing cost higher than 81% of areas nationally. Rent absorbs 30.1% of household income here and mortgage repayments 27.9%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

The housing mix in Meridan Plains at the time of the last Census consisted of 71.9% houses and 28.2% alternative dwellings (semi-detached properties, apartments, and other housing types), compared to Regional Qld's breakdown of 76.4% houses and 23.6% alternative dwellings. Home ownership in Meridan Plains was lower than the Regional Qld average, standing at 22.2%, with the remaining dwellings occupied by mortgage holders (32.7%) or renters (45.1%). The median monthly mortgage payment in the area was significantly higher than the Regional Qld average at $1,850, and the median weekly rent was $460, compared to Regional Qld figures of $1,655 and $345 respectively.

On a national level, mortgage repayments in Meridan Plains are below the Australian average of $1,863, while rents are considerably higher than the national figure of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
In the suburb of Meridan Plains, 22.2% of homes are owned outright, 32.7% are owned with a mortgage, and 45.1% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the suburb of Meridan Plains are houses?
According to the latest data, 71.9% of dwellings in the suburb of Meridan Plains are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the suburb of Meridan Plains are apartments or units?
In the suburb of Meridan Plains, 4.0% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 24.2% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Meridan Plains stands at 22.2%, compared to 33.4% in Regional Qld.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Meridan Plains is $1,850, compared to $1,655 in Regional Qld.
What is the median weekly rent in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
The median weekly rent in the suburb of Meridan Plains is $460, compared to $345 in Regional Qld.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
In the suburb of Meridan Plains, 1.9% of rentals are $0-149/week, 12.5% are $150-349/week, 82.8% are $350-649/week, 2.8% are $650-949/week, and 0.0% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Meridan Plains is $1,503, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
In the suburb of Meridan Plains, households with mortgages typically spend 27.9% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 30.1% of their income on rent.
How crowded are homes in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Meridan Plains is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the suburb of Meridan Plains compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the suburb of Meridan Plains shows mortgage holders spending 27.9% of income on repayments (vs 25.3% regionally), while renters spend 30.1% of income on rent (vs 22.9% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Meridan Plains consists of 71.9% detached houses, 24.2% semi-detached dwellings, 4.0% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
Given the tenure profile of the area, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $1,503. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $1,850/month, and renters paying $1,992/month.
How affordable is housing in the suburb of Meridan Plains relative to local incomes?
Housing in Meridan Plains consumes approximately 22.7% of median household income ($6,621 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
How do proposed developments compare to existing housing types in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
Recent development applications in Meridan Plains show attached dwellings contributing 44% of approvals compared to 28% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 56% of applications versus 72% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Housing density growth is around the national average.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Meridan Plains

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Meridan Plains counted 1,692 households at the 2021 Census, averaging 2.6 people each. 29% are couples with children, against 28% couples without children. 23% of households are people living alone, and families average 1.6 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Families make up the majority of households at 73.8%, consisting of 29.0% couples with children, 28.1% couples without children, and 15.7% single parent households. Non-family living arrangements account for the remaining 26.2%, with single-person households representing 22.8% and group households making up 3.4%. The median household size of 2.6 residents is slightly larger than the Regional Qld average of 2.5.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Meridan Plains had 1,692 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has remained relatively stable to an estimated 1,685 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median household size in the suburb of Meridan Plains is 2.6 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional Qld and reflects the area's household composition mix.
What types of households are most common?
Family households dominate at 73.8% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (22.8%), group households (3.4%), and other household types (0.2%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 1,248 family households, 29.0% are couples with children, 28.1% are couples without children at home, and 15.7% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the suburb of Meridan Plains compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Regional Qld, the suburb of Meridan Plains shows distinct household patterns. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
What is the average family size?
Families in the suburb of Meridan Plains have an average of 1.6 children, slightly below the Regional Qld average of 1.7. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
What are the marriage patterns in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
Marriage patterns reveal 45.2% of the adult population are currently married, while 34.7% have never married. This compares to 45.1% married and 35.6% never married across Regional Qld.
How significant are single-person households?
Single-person households represent 22.8% of all households in the suburb of Meridan Plains, similar to the regional average of 25.6%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Are shared living arrangements common?
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 3.4% of households, well below the Regional Qld average of 4.0%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
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EducationSchools & Education in Meridan Plains

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21.7% of adults in Meridan Plains hold a university qualification, including 15.8% with a bachelor degree and 3.8% with postgraduate qualifications, higher than 75% of areas nationally. A further 29.2% hold a vocational qualification. 2 schools serve the area, with 3,090 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 1,066 against a national benchmark of 1,000. Qualifications come from the 2021 Census; school enrolments, ICSEA and results come from ACARA's current release.

Detail

Educational attainment levels in Meridan Plains are lower than regional benchmarks, with 21.7% of residents aged 15+ holding a university degree compared to 30.4% across Australia. This difference suggests opportunities for further educational advancement and skill acquisition. Bachelor degrees are the most common higher qualification at 15.8%, followed by postgraduate qualifications (3.8%) and graduate diplomas (2.1%). Vocational and technical skills are highly prevalent, with 41.8% of residents aged 15+ holding vocational qualifications, split between advanced diplomas (12.6%) and certificates (29.2%). Enrollment rates in education are high, with 32.3% of local residents currently studying.

This breakdown includes 11.0% in primary school, 10.2% in secondary school, and 4.9% undertaking tertiary education.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the suburb of Meridan Plains have university qualifications?
21.7% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Meridan Plains have university qualifications, compared to 20.6% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the suburb of Meridan Plains have no formal qualifications?
36.6% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Meridan Plains have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.2% regionally.
How does the suburb of Meridan Plains's education level compare to national averages?
The suburb of meridan plains ranks in the 75th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
What types of qualifications are most common in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Meridan Plains are: Certificate (29.2%), Bachelor Degree (15.8%), Advanced Diploma (12.6%).
What proportion of the suburb of Meridan Plains's population is currently attending educational institutions?
32.3% of the population in the suburb of Meridan Plains is currently engaged in formal education, with 11.0% in primary school, 10.2% in secondary school, 4.9% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Meridan Plains is 1066, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
How many schools are located within the suburb of Meridan Plains?
There are 2 schools within the suburb of Meridan Plains, with a combined enrollment of approximately 3,090 students.
What types of schools are available in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
The suburb of meridan plains includes 2 combined schools.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Meridan Plains

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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Meridan Plains

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Getting around Meridan Plains means driving: households keep an average of 1.3 vehicles, and scheduled services reach only a handful of stops. Service data is built from operators' published GTFS timetables; vehicle ownership is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

Analysis of public transport shows 3 active transit stops within Meridan Plains, consisting of bus services. These stops are served by 2 separate routes, which combine to support 441 passenger journeys every week. Transit accessibility is moderate, with residents living an average of 516 meters from their closest stop. As a predominantly residential suburb, most workers commute out of the area, with private cars remaining the primary choice at 94% and cycling at 2%. Households own an average of 1.3 vehicles, which is below the regional average. A low 11.3% of residents work from home (based on 2021 Census data, which may reflect pandemic-era arrangements).

The average service frequency is 63 runs per day across all routes, which translates to roughly 147 weekly runs at each individual transit stop.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Meridan Plains?
There are 3 public transport stops within the suburb of Meridan Plains.
How frequent are the transport services in Meridan Plains?
the suburb of Meridan Plains has 441 weekly trips across 2 routes, averaging 63 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Meridan Plains?
On average, residential properties are 516 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Meridan Plains

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66.0% of residents in Meridan Plains report no long-term health condition, a less healthy profile than 78% of areas nationally. 7.4% need daily assistance with core activities, and 53.1% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 6.4 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Health indicators highlight notable difficulties in Meridan Plains, based on AreaSearch's evaluation of mortality rates and chronic disease rates, with a significantly higher prevalence of common health problems than average, particularly within the older demographic groups, while the rate of private health insurance is slightly above the average SA2 area at roughly 53% of the population (~2,428 people). The most prevalent medical diagnoses in the locality were mental health conditions and arthritis, affecting 9.4% and 8.8% of residents respectively, whereas 66.0% of the population reported having no medical conditions compared to 67.6% across Regional Qld.

Health profiles for working-age residents are generally typical. The area has 17.9% of residents aged 65 and over (818 people), which is lower than the 20.4% recorded in Regional Qld. Health outcomes for seniors present some difficulties, although they rank lower nationally than the population as a whole.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the suburb of Meridan Plains have private health insurance?
Around 53.1% of people in the suburb of Meridan Plains are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.5% in the broader region of Regional Qld.
What percentage of the population requires ongoing medical assistance in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
In the suburb of Meridan Plains, 7.4% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 6.3% of people in Regional Qld require similar assistance.
How prevalent is asthma in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
7.7% of people in the suburb of Meridan Plains are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.4% of the population across Regional Qld is affected by asthma.
What percentage of people have diabetes in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
Diabetes affects 3.6% of the the suburb of Meridan Plains population, while in the surrounding region, 4.2% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
What is the percentage of people with heart disease in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
4.3% of people in the suburb of Meridan Plains have heart disease. Across the region of Regional Qld, 4.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the suburb of Meridan Plains compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the suburb of Meridan Plains, 53.1% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional Qld sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 52.5%.

Ancestry & LanguageCultural Diversity in Meridan Plains

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Meridan Plains is largely Australian-born, at 75.9% of residents, with 8.2% speaking a language other than English at home. The largest reported ancestries are English (32.1%) and Australian (27.3%). Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Meridan Plains is close to the wider region's average in terms of cultural background, with 85.3% of residents holding citizenship, 75.9% born in Australia, and 91.8% speaking only English at home. The predominant religion is Christianity, which is practiced by 47.9% of local residents. The most visible overrepresentation is in Hinduism, which represents 1.2% of the population compared to 0.8% across Regional Qld. Looking at parent countries of birth, the three largest ancestry groups represented in Meridan Plains are English at 32.1%, Australian at 27.3%, and Irish at 8.0%. There are also notable differences in the shares of other nationalities: New Zealand is overrepresented at 1.1% of Meridan Plains (compared to 0.9% in the region), French at 0.6% (compared to 0.5%), and South Australian at 0.6% (compared to 0.5%).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
Meridan Plains was found to be roughly in line with the wider region's average in terms of cultural diversity, with 85.3% of its population being citizens, 75.9% born in Australia, and 91.8% speaking English only at home.
What is the most common religion in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
The main religion in Meridan Plains was found to be Christianity, which makes up 47.9% of people in Meridan Plains. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Hinduism, which comprises 1.2% of the population, compared to 0.8% across Regional Qld.
What are the top countries of origin in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Meridan Plains are English, comprising 32.1% of the population, Australian, comprising 27.3% of the population, and Irish, comprising 8.0% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: New Zealand is notably overrepresented at 1.1% of Meridan Plains (vs 0.9% regionally), French at 0.6% (vs 0.5%) and South African at 0.6% (vs 0.5%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
24.1% of the the suburb of Meridan Plains population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% regionally.
What percentage of the the suburb of Meridan Plains population speaks a language other than English at home?
8.2% of the population in the suburb of Meridan Plains speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.6% in the wider region.
How many people in the suburb of Meridan Plains identify as Australian Aboriginal?
1.9% of the the suburb of Meridan Plains population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.9% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
85.3% of the the suburb of Meridan Plains population holds citizenship, compared to 84.9% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Meridan Plains

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The median resident of Meridan Plains is 36. 28.3% of residents are aged 15 to 34. Age cohorts are not raw Census counts: the Census split is re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections.

Detail

With a median age of 36, Meridan Plains is notably younger than the Regional Qld average of 41 and slightly younger than the Australian median of 38 years. Relative to Regional Qld, the 15 - 24 cohort is over-represented (14.1% locally), while the 65 - 74 bracket is under-represented (5.3%). Since 2021, the 35 to 44 age group has expanded from 13.1% to 14.4% of the population. In contrast, the 65 to 74 group has shrunk from 7.1% to 5.3%, and the 5 to 14 cohort decreased from 14.7% to 13.6%.

Demographic modeling indicates the age profile of Meridan Plains will shift by 2041, with the 25 to 34 age bracket projected to grow by 132 people (20%) from 648 to 781, while the 55 to 64 and 5 to 14 groups are expected to contract.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
According to the latest data, the median age in the suburb of Meridan Plains is 36 years.
How does the suburb of Meridan Plains's median age compare to broader areas?
At 36 years, Meridan Plains is 5 years younger than the Regional Qld average (41 years) and 2 years younger than the national average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
The most over-represented age group in the suburb of Meridan Plains compared to the Regional Qld region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 14.1% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
The most under-represented age group in the suburb of Meridan Plains compared to the Regional Qld region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 5.3% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Meridan Plains show significant variance compared to the Regional Qld region. The most over-represented age group is 85+ year-olds (3.6% vs 2.3%). The most under-represented age groups are 65-74 year-olds (5.3% vs 11.0%) and 55-64 year-olds (7.8% vs 12.4%).
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
The percentage of children aged 0-14 years in the suburb of Meridan Plains is 19.9%.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the suburb of Meridan Plains?
The percentage of people aged 65 and over in the suburb of Meridan Plains is 17.9%.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Meridan Plains

Data currency Refreshed

9 of 14 data sections on this page were updated within the last 12 months — the newest current to Aug 2026.

Everything is aggregated to the Suburb (SAL) boundary shown above, on a 2021 Census baseline. Only 3 sections — housing, households and cultural diversity — still wait on the 2026 Census.

The ledger — source, cycle and currency by section

Section Source & update cycle Currency
Updated within the last 12 months 9 sections
Population ABS, GNAF, Geoscience Australia Annual (ABS ERP) May 2026 3 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release) and updated with new dwellings from GNAF address data. Current to May 2026, with the 2021 Census supplying the small-area baseline.
Age profile ABS, Geoscience Australia, State governments Annual May 2026 3 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Age cohorts are re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections, current to May 2026. Each cohort is held as a Census baseline and a current estimate.
Development & approvals ABS, GNAF Monthly (ABS approvals) Jun 2026 2 months ago headline measures · May 2026 baseline
Property sales & rents Valuer General, Rental Board, ABS Weekly sales, quarterly rents Aug 2026 this month all 21 measures
Sales from the state Valuer General register, refreshed weekly, and rents from quarterly rental bond lodgements. Both are read live each time this page loads, current to Aug 2026.
Infrastructure projects Infrastructure Australia, State agencies, Local governments Daily Jun 2026 2 months ago all 6 projects tracked here
Project pipeline maintained continuously from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, local government and public announcements. Records are added and revised daily; this area was last updated Jun 2026.
Employment ABS, DEWR, JSA Quarterly (ABS SALM) Mar 2026 5 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Unemployment and labour force from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, current to Mar 2026. The growth outlook applies Department of Employment (now Jobs and Skills Australia) forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to the local industry mix, so it measures sector composition rather than local expansion and makes no allowance for population growth. Job demand comes from the same agency via its Internet Vacancy Index; industry and occupation structure from the 2021 Census.
Education ABS, ACARA Annual (ACARA) Aug 2026 this month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Transport ABS, State Transport Departments Each timetable release Jul 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Services & amenities Provider directories, ACECQA Continuous Jul 2026 last month all 14 measures
Annual and financial-year sources 2 sections
Income ABS, ATO Annual (ATO) FY 2023 3 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
ATO taxable income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index. Census household income provides the distribution detail.
Health ABS, ATO Annual 2024 2 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Census-measured — next update: 2026 Census 3 sections No more current small-area source exists for these, so they are labelled as Census-measured rather than implied to be current.
Housing ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 30 measures
Households ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 18 measures
Cultural diversity ABS, Geoscience Australia 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 44 measures

"Currency" is the most recent release feeding that section. Where the Census supplies the structural baseline underneath a current headline figure, the row says so.

How the numbers are built

Population

The Census provides the small-area baseline, aggregated from mesh blocks to this boundary. It is then re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release), and new dwellings built since Census night are counted from address data — 64 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for May 2026, not a 2021 count (4,589 at the 2021 Census → 4,570 now). Annual growth rates are compound (CAGR), not simple averages.

Age profile

Cohort shares are not raw Census counts. Every cohort is held as a pair — the Census baseline and a current estimate — and the split is re-based using ERP and state population projections, current to May 2026. Median age is the Census median plus modelled change since. Charts that show both are labelled "2021 Census vs Current Estimate".

Property sales

Sourced from the state valuation authority's sales register — current, not Census, and refreshed weekly. Medians are calculated from settled transactions in the period shown; periods with very low transaction counts are flagged or suppressed, because a handful of sales can move a median substantially.

Rents

Derived from state rental bond lodgement data, by dwelling type and bedroom count. Bonds are lodged at the start of a new tenancy, so this reflects new lettings, not the whole rented stock.

Development & infrastructure

Building approvals come from current ABS releases; development applications are collected from council and state planning portals; the infrastructure pipeline is compiled from Infrastructure Australia and local government sources. Applications are matched to this boundary by address or coordinates, so very recent lodgements may not yet appear.

Employment & income

Industry and occupation structure comes from the Census, but the headline labour-market indicators do not. Unemployment and labour force are derived from ABS Small Area Labour Markets (quarterly). The employment outlook applies Department of Employment forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to this area's own industry mix (the agency is now Jobs and Skills Australia), as does the Internet Vacancy Index used for job demand. Because it is weighted on industry composition alone, that outlook carries no allowance for local population growth — in fast-growing areas the real rise in local jobs will typically be higher. Income combines Census household income with ATO taxable-income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index.

Education, transport & amenities

School enrolments, ICSEA and performance come from ACARA's current release, not the Census. Public transport stops and service frequency are derived from GTFS timetable feeds published by state transport departments. Services and amenities are proximity and count scores built from provider directories, refreshed on their own cycle. The Census contributes only the travel-to-work and qualification measures.

Rankings and benchmarks. Where we rank this area, the comparison set is every area of the same boundary type — suburbs against suburbs, SA2s against SA2s. Benchmarks compare this area against its greater capital city region and the national figure for the same measure and period.

Limits worth knowing. Small areas carry larger error margins, and the ABS introduces small random adjustments to Census counts to protect confidentiality — so totals may not sum exactly. Estimates re-based from regional data describe the area's expected trajectory, not a direct count of it. Figures are indicative for research and are not financial, planning or valuation advice.

Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (SAL31807). QuickStats reports 2021 only — the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.

Common questions about this page

How do Meridan Plains suburb boundaries differ from Statistical Areas?
This page uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries (suburb-style geography). SAL represents commonly-known suburb names used in addresses, while Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census/statistical reporting. Even when sharing the same name, SAL and SA2 boundaries often cover different geographic areas with different populations.
Where does the data on this Meridan Plains page come from?
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources — including ABS, Geoscience Australia, Valuer General, Provider directories, DEWR, JSA, State Transport Departments and ACARA — then aggregates them to the boundary shown and calculates the rankings, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments.
Is the Meridan Plains data on this page just from the 2021 Census?
No. Most of this page is maintained well beyond the Census. Sourced entirely from current releases: development & approvals (Jun 2026), property sales & rents (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Jun 2026) and services & amenities (Jul 2026). Built on a Census baseline but carrying newer measures on top: population (to May 2026), age profile (to May 2026), employment (to Mar 2026), income (to FY 2023), education (to Aug 2026), transport (to Jul 2026) and health (to 2024). Population and age cohorts in particular are re-based to the latest ABS Estimated Resident Population rather than left at 2021 counts. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.

Nearby Areas