Chart Color Schemes
This analysis uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, which can materially differ from Statistical Areas (SA2) even when sharing the same name.
SAL boundaries are defined by Australia Post and the Australian Bureau of Statistics to represent commonly-known suburb names used in postal addresses.
Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census data collection and may combine multiple suburbs or use different geographic boundaries. For comprehensive analysis, consider reviewing both boundary types if available.
est. as @ -- *
2021 Census | -- people
Sales Activity
Curious about local property values? Filter the chart to assess the volume and appreciation (including resales) trends and regional comparisons, or scroll to the map below view this information at an individual property level.
Find a Recent Sale
Sales Detail
Population
Population growth drivers in Sunshine North are slightly above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium term trends
Based on ABS population updates and AreaSearch validation, as of Nov 2025, Sunshine North's estimated population is around 12,720. This reflects a growth of 673 people since the 2021 Census, which reported a population of 12,047. The change was inferred from AreaSearch's estimate of 12,504 residents following examination of ABS ERP data release in Jun 2024 and an additional 665 validated new addresses since the Census date. This results in a density ratio of 1,586 persons per square kilometer, above national averages assessed by AreaSearch. Sunshine North's growth rate of 5.6% since the 2021 census exceeded the SA3 area's 2.5%, making it a growth leader in the region. Overseas migration contributed approximately 89.0% of overall population gains during recent periods.
AreaSearch is adopting ABS/Geoscience Australia projections for each SA2 area, released in 2024 with a base year of 2022. For areas not covered by this data, AreaSearch utilises VIC State Government's Regional/LGA projections from 2023, adjusted using weighted aggregation methods to SA2 levels. Growth rates by age group are applied across all areas for years 2032 to 2041. By 2041, Sunshine North is forecasted to increase its population by 3,404 persons, reflecting a total gain of 25.1% over the 17-year period.
Frequently Asked Questions - Population
Development
Recent residential development output has been above average within Sunshine North when compared nationally
AreaSearch analysis of ABS building approval numbers shows Sunshine North has had approximately 99 new homes approved annually over the past five financial years, totalling around 499 homes. As of FY-26, 18 approvals have been recorded. The average number of new residents per year arriving per new home in Sunshine North between FY-21 and FY-25 is zero, indicating supply meeting or exceeding demand. New properties are constructed at an average expected cost of $475,000, slightly above the regional average.
In FY-26, $16.4 million in commercial development approvals have been recorded. Compared to Greater Melbourne, Sunshine North has 178.0% more construction activity per person. Recent construction comprises 27.0% detached dwellings and 73.0% attached dwellings, a significant shift from the current housing pattern of 82.0% houses. With around 80 people per dwelling approval, Sunshine North is considered a low-density area. According to AreaSearch's latest quarterly estimate, Sunshine North is projected to gain 3,187 residents by 2041. At current development rates, new housing supply should comfortably meet demand, providing good conditions for buyers and potentially supporting growth beyond current population projections.
Population forecasts indicate Sunshine North will gain 3,187 residents through to 2041 (from the latest AreaSearch quarterly estimate). At current development rates, new housing supply should comfortably meet demand, providing good conditions for buyers and potentially supporting growth beyond current population projections.
Frequently Asked Questions - Development
Infrastructure
Sunshine North has very high levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 10% nationally
Changes to local infrastructure significantly impact an area's performance. AreaSearch has identified 21 projects that could affect this region. Notable ones are River Valley, Luma Sunshine North, Sunshine North Village, and Sunshine Precinct Development. The following details those expected to have the most relevance.
Professional plan users can use the search below to filter and access additional projects.
INFRASTRUCTURE SEARCH
Denotes AI-based impression for illustrative purposes only, not to be taken as definitive under any circumstances. Please follow links and conduct other investigations from the project's source for actual imagery. Developers and project owners wishing us to use original imagery please Contact Us and we will do so.
Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure
Sunshine Priority Precinct Vision 2050
The Sunshine Priority Precinct Vision 2050 is a major urban renewal strategy to establish Sunshine as the capital of Melbournes west. It leverages over $20 billion in total infrastructure investment, including the $4.1 billion Sunshine Superhub and the Albion Station redevelopment. The vision aims to accommodate 43,000 new residents and up to 50,000 new jobs by 2051, focused on health, education, and manufacturing. Key components include the Sunshine Station Precinct Masterplan ($143 million for stage one works starting in 2026), the Albion Quarter Structure Plan, and the 54-hectare Sunshine Energy Park vision.
Sunshine Superhub and Albion Station Upgrade
A major transformation of Sunshine Station into a transport superhub and the complete rebuild of Albion Station. The project involves 6km of track upgrades from West Footscray to Albion, including two new regional platforms, an extended concourse, and a new station forecourt at Sunshine. It untangles a complex rail junction to enable the Melbourne Airport Rail and future Melton line electrification. Early works, including utility relocations and car park closures at Albion and Tottenham, commenced in early 2026 to prepare for major construction.
Sunshine Precinct Development
A transformative 30-year urban renewal initiative to establish Sunshine as the capital of Melbourne's west. The project centers on the Sunshine Station 'Superhub', integrating the Melbourne Airport Rail and Suburban Rail Loop. Key components include the Albion Quarter Structure Plan, which is transitioning industrial land into a mixed-use innovation and residential district, and the Sunshine Station Masterplan. As of early 2026, the project is advancing through critical planning phases, including Tranche 2 of the Standing Advisory Committee hearings and the development of the draft Albion Quarter Structure Plan. The precinct aims to unlock $8 billion in investment and support 50,000 new jobs by 2055.
Albion Quarter Structure Plan
The Albion Quarter Structure Plan is a transformative urban renewal initiative led by the Victorian Department of Transport and Planning. It aims to transition the industrial area surrounding the upgraded Albion Station into a vibrant mixed-use precinct featuring next-generation employment, innovation hubs, and diverse housing options. The plan leverages the $80 million Albion Station rebuild and the broader $143 million Sunshine Station Masterplan to create an estimated $2 billion in development investment. Key features include the ecological revitalization of Stony Creek and the integration of the area with the Metro Tunnel and Melbourne Airport Rail networks.
Joan Kirner Women's and Children's Hospital
A $200 million, 9-storey specialist women's and children's hospital on the Sunshine Hospital campus. Named after Victoria's first female premier, the facility features 237 beds, 20 maternity delivery rooms, 39 special care nursery cots, 4 birthing pools, 4 operating theatres, NICU (western suburbs' first neonatal intensive care unit), and dedicated accommodation rooms. Designed by Lyons Architecture with salutogenic principles to promote healing and wellbeing. Opened May 2019 to serve Melbourne's growing western suburbs with world-class maternity and paediatric services.
Melbourne Airport Rail - Sunshine to Albion Package
Part of Melbourne Airport Rail connecting passengers from Sunshine to Melbourne Airport via Albion. Includes station upgrades, new railway infrastructure, and integration with existing public transport network. Expected to reduce travel times significantly.
Victoria University Construction Futures
State-of-the-art construction training facility at VU Sunshine campus completed in 2013. Features industry-standard workshops, simulation labs, modern workshops, simulation areas, and equipment for building, plumbing, electrical, and carpentry trades. Part of VU's practical education focus supporting workforce development for Melbourne's construction boom and providing pathways for local students into building trades.
Vietnamese Museum Australia
Australia's first museum dedicated to preserving and sharing the story of Vietnamese refugee settlement in Australia. The three-storey building, designed by Konzepte Melbourne, features a wave-like facade and bamboo exterior details symbolizing the journey to freedom. Estimated cost $20 million, with funding including $10M Federal, $8.7M State, and community contributions. It will house over 100,000 stories on veterans, refugees, and Vietnamese Australians, as part of the Multicultural Museums Victoria network. Construction progressing steadily, with completion expected in May 2026.
Employment
Employment drivers in Sunshine North are experiencing difficulties, placing it among the bottom 20% of areas assessed across Australia
Sunshine North has a skilled workforce with strong representation in manufacturing and industrial sectors. Its unemployment rate was 7.4% as of September 2025, with an estimated employment growth of 4.6% over the past year.
As of this date, 6,181 residents were employed while the unemployment rate was 2.8% higher than Greater Melbourne's rate of 4.7%. Workforce participation in Sunshine North lagged at 53.9%, compared to Greater Melbourne's 64.1%. Employment is concentrated in manufacturing, retail trade, and health care & social assistance sectors. Manufacturing employment levels were particularly notable, at 1.9 times the regional average.
However, professional & technical services had lower representation, with only 5.1% of Sunshine North's workforce compared to Greater Melbourne's 10.1%. Many residents commute elsewhere for work based on Census data. From September 2024 to September 2025, employment levels increased by 4.6%, and labour force increased by 5.6%, causing the unemployment rate to rise by 0.9 percentage points in Sunshine North. In contrast, Greater Melbourne experienced employment growth of 3.0% and labour force growth of 3.3%, with a 0.3 percentage point rise in unemployment rate. State-level data from 25-Nov shows Victoria's employment grew by 1.13% year-on-year, adding 41,950 jobs, with the state unemployment rate at 4.7%. National employment forecasts from May-25 suggest national employment will expand by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years. Applying these projections to Sunshine North's employment mix suggests local employment should increase by 5.6% over five years and 12.2% over ten years, though this is a simple extrapolation for illustrative purposes and does not account for localized population projections.
Frequently Asked Questions - Employment
Income
The area's income levels rank in the lower 15% nationally based on AreaSearch comparative data
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for financial year 2023 shows Sunshine North's median income among taxpayers is $41,781, with an average of $48,398. This is lower than the national average, compared to Greater Melbourne's median of $57,688 and average of $75,164. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 8.25% since financial year 2023, estimates for September 2025 would be approximately $45,228 (median) and $52,391 (average). Census data reveals individual incomes lag at the 6th percentile ($546 weekly), while household income performs better at the 28th percentile. The $1,500 - 2,999 earnings band captures 30.6% of the community (3,892 individuals). Housing affordability pressures are severe, with only 84.0% of income remaining, ranking at the 28th percentile.
Frequently Asked Questions - Income
Housing
Sunshine North is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership
Sunshine North's dwelling structure, as per the latest Census, consisted of 82.5% houses and 17.5% other dwellings (semi-detached, apartments, 'other' dwellings). This compares to Melbourne metro's 81.3% houses and 18.7% other dwellings. Home ownership in Sunshine North stood at 39.5%, with mortgaged dwellings at 29.8% and rented dwellings at 30.7%. The median monthly mortgage repayment was $1,733, higher than Melbourne metro's average of $1,700. The median weekly rent was $341, slightly lower than Melbourne metro's figure of $346. Nationally, Sunshine North's mortgage repayments were below the Australian average of $1,863, and rents were also lower at $341 compared to the national figure of $375.
Frequently Asked Questions - Housing
Household Composition
Sunshine North features high concentrations of group households, with a fairly typical median household size
Family households account for 72.4% of all households, including 34.6% couples with children, 18.5% couples without children, and 17.2% single parent families. Non-family households constitute the remaining 27.6%, with lone person households at 22.2% and group households comprising 5.4%. The median household size is 2.9 people, which aligns with the Greater Melbourne average.
Frequently Asked Questions - Households
Local Schools & Education
Educational outcomes in Sunshine North fall within the lower quartile nationally, indicating opportunities for improvement in qualification attainment
The area's university qualification rate is 24.3%, significantly lower than Greater Melbourne's average of 37.0%. Bachelor degrees are the most common at 17.5%, followed by postgraduate qualifications (5.3%) and graduate diplomas (1.5%). Vocational pathways account for 23.7% of qualifications among those aged 15+, with advanced diplomas at 8.7% and certificates at 15.0%. Educational participation is high, with 30.6% of residents currently enrolled in formal education.
This includes 8.7% in primary education, 7.8% in secondary education, and 6.6% pursuing tertiary education.
Frequently Asked Questions - Education
Schools Detail
Nearby Services & Amenities
Transport
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility
Sunshine North has 43 active public transport stops, all of which offer bus services. These stops are served by 8 different routes that together facilitate 1,559 weekly passenger trips. The area's transport accessibility is deemed good, with residents on average located 281 meters from the nearest stop.
Across all routes, service frequency averages 222 trips per day, equating to about 36 weekly trips per individual stop.
Frequently Asked Questions - Transport
Transport Stops Detail
Health
The level of general health in Sunshine North is notably higher than the national average with prevalence of common health conditions low among the general population and nearer the nation's average across older, at risk cohorts
Sunshine North shows better-than-average health outcomes, with fewer common health conditions among its general population compared to older, at-risk cohorts nationally. Private health cover is low here, at approximately 46% (around 5,861 people), compared to Greater Melbourne's 48.5%. Nationally, the average is 55.7%.
The most prevalent medical conditions are asthma and arthritis, affecting 6.6% and 6.0% of residents respectively. 74.3% reported no medical ailments, slightly higher than Greater Melbourne's 73.5%. The area has a lower proportion of seniors aged 65 and over at 16.9% (2,149 people), compared to Greater Melbourne's 17.9%. However, health outcomes among seniors require more attention than the broader population.
Frequently Asked Questions - Health
Cultural Diversity
Sunshine North is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics
Sunshine North has one of the highest levels of cultural diversity in Australia, with 57.9% of its population born overseas and 74.6% speaking a language other than English at home. Christianity is the predominant religion in Sunshine North, making up 42.1% of people. However, Buddhism stands out with 23.0%, significantly higher than Greater Melbourne's average of 12.5%.
In terms of ancestry, Vietnamese people comprise 31.8% of Sunshine North's population, considerably more than the regional average of 15.7%. The category 'Other' accounts for 14.4%, lower than the regional average of 19.8%. Chinese ancestry represents 11.3%, significantly higher than the regional average of 6.3%. Notably, Maltese people are overrepresented at 5.4% compared to the regional average of 4.6%. Similarly, Croatian and Polish people are underrepresented in Sunshine North with percentages of 1.1% and 1.0%, respectively, compared to regional averages of 2.2% and 1.1%.
Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity
Age
Sunshine North's population is slightly younger than the national pattern
Sunshine North has a median age of 37, matching Greater Melbourne's figure and closely resembling Australia's median age of 38 years. The 55-64 age group comprises 12.5%, higher than Greater Melbourne, while the 35-44 cohort stands at 13.7%. Between 2021 and present, the 35-44 age group has increased from 12.8% to 13.7% of Sunshine North's population. Conversely, the 5-14 age group has decreased from 10.9% to 10.1%. By 2041, demographic projections indicate significant shifts in Sunshine North's age structure. Notably, the 55-64 group is projected to grow by 42%, adding 670 people and reaching 2,260 from its current total of 1,590. Meanwhile, the 0-4 cohort is expected to grow modestly by 8%, adding 54 people.