Thursday Island

Suburb (SAL)

Rest of Qld / Migratory - Offshore - Shipping (Qld)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Data Sources ABSValuer GeneralRental BoardACARA Newest Aug 2026 · Refreshed ABS QuickStats SAL32823 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 Thursday Island

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DemographicsPopulation Growth in Thursday Island

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Thursday Island has an estimated 2,842 residents, up from 2,805 at the 2021 Census — a change of 37 people, or 1.3%. That puts 764 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

According to assessments of ABS population statistics for the surrounding region and subsequent address validations by AreaSearch following the Census, the suburb of Thursday Island has an estimated population of 2,842 in May 2026. This indicates an addition of 37 residents (1.3%) compared to the 2021 Census, which registered 2,805 residents. This adjustment is calculated from the estimated resident population of 2,842, which AreaSearch determined from the latest ABS ERP release in June 2025 alongside 7 validated new addresses registered since the Census. This population level represents a density of 764 persons per square kilometer, which aligns closely with typical averages recorded across areas evaluated by AreaSearch.

The 1.3% growth since census in the suburb of Thursday Island is within 2.2 percentage points of the SA4 region (3.5%), showing competitive expansion dynamics. Population growth in the locality was mostly driven by natural increase, which accounted for approximately 85.0% of the total population rise during recent timeframes. AreaSearch utilizes ABS/Geoscience Australia projections for each SA2 region, published in 2024 with 2022 as the baseline year. For SA2 regions lacking this data, and for all years after 2032, projections from the Queensland State Government for SA2 regions, published in 2023 and based on 2021 statistics, are applied. Because these state projections lack breakdowns by age category, AreaSearch distributes growth across age groups by applying proportional weightings derived from the 2023 ABS Greater Capital Region projections, which use 2022 data. Looking at upcoming demographic changes, the region is projected to experience growth in line with the lower quartile of regional areas nationwide, with projections at the SA2 level indicating the suburb of Thursday Island will expand by 90 residents by 2041, representing a total increase of 3.1% over the 16 years.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the suburb of Thursday Island?
Total population for the suburb of Thursday Island was estimated to be approximately 2,842 as at May 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 2,842 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the suburb of Thursday Island changed since 2021?
The suburb of thursday island has added approximately 37 people and shown a 1.32% increase from the 2,805 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the suburb of Thursday Island?
The population density in the suburb of Thursday Island is estimated at 764 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 Thursday Island?
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Thursday Island has shown a compound annual growth rate of -0.7% per annum.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the suburb of Thursday Island?
Population growth in the suburb of Thursday Island is driven by: Natural increase (85.0%), Overseas migration (15.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Natural increase, contributing 85.0% of overall population gains.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Thursday Island

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Detail

Property development is highly constrained on Thursday Island, with only 1 new dwellings receiving approval each year, totaling 5 dwellings over the five-year timeframe. This minimal level of building activity aligns with the rural character of the locality, where construction is generally triggered by specific local housing requirements rather than broader market demand. Because of the small sample size, individual building projects can have a disproportionate effect on annual growth rates and comparative metrics. Recent residential construction is composed entirely of separate houses, which is characteristic of the rural setting where larger blocks and extra space are common.

Interestingly, developers are focusing on freestanding houses to a greater extent than the existing housing stock would suggest (58.0% at Census), indicating a sustained appetite for traditional family residences despite density pressures. The ratio of 1895 people for every dwelling approval highlights the quiet, low-scale nature of residential construction in the area. Long-term forecasts suggest the suburb of Thursday Island will add 87 residents by 2041, based on the most recent quarterly estimates from AreaSearch. If current building rates do not increase, residential supply may struggle to match population growth, potentially creating tougher competition for buyers and supporting upward pressure on home values.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the suburb of Thursday Island recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the suburb of Thursday Island area has seen 3 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Thursday Island's current population of 2,842 has been supported by 1 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the suburb of Thursday Island's development activity compare to the broader region?
The suburb of Thursday Island has seen 0.03 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 1895 people in the suburb of Thursday Island, compared to one for every 183 in the broader region.
Is the suburb of Thursday Island keeping up with housing demand?
With the population expected to increase by 87 people by 2041, around 29 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels appear more than sufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 3.0 persons per dwelling. This suggests that population growth may exceed trend projections in the coming years, supported by a robust housing supply.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the suburb of Thursday Island?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Thursday Island's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 1, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
How many dwellings will be needed to accommodate future population growth in the suburb of Thursday Island?
The population in the suburb of Thursday Island is expected to grow by 87 people by 2041, necessitating approximately 29 new dwellings. This calculation is based on the current census average of 3.0 persons per dwelling in the area.
How does recent development compare to population growth in the suburb of Thursday Island?
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Thursday Island has grown by approximately 187 people, while 5 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 37.4 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 Thursday Island?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 1 approvals per year and a population of 2,842, the market appears to be adequately supplied relative to projected housing demand in recent years, suggesting that developers should have a longer-term approach when considering new projects. With the population expected to increase by 87 people by 2041, around 29 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels appear more than sufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 3.0 persons per dwelling. This suggests that population growth may exceed trend projections in the coming years, supported by a robust housing supply.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Thursday Island

Development applications around Thursday Island

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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 Thursday Island

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AreaSearch tracks 3 current infrastructure and development projects inside Thursday Island, worth an estimated $29 million. A further 52 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $3.99 billion. 17 are already under construction and 12 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans residential development, tourism 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 urban planning decisions are key drivers of regional performance. AreaSearch has identified a total of 3 projects that are expected to influence the locality. Notable developments include the Saila Terrace Townhouses, Thursday Island Affordable Modular Homes, Victoria Parade Units, and Queensland National Land Transport Network Maintenance, with the details of the most relevant projects listed below.

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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Thursday Island?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Thursday Island include: Saila Terrace Townhouses (Planning); Thursday Island Affordable Modular Homes (Completed); Victoria Parade Units (Completed); Queensland National Land Transport Network Maintenance (Planning); and Queensland Energy Roadmap - SuperGrid Infrastructure Program (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 Thursday Island?
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Thursday Island spans multiple sectors including Energy, Residential Development, and Transport & Logistics, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the suburb of Thursday Island?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates targeted investment in infrastructure improvements that will benefit the local area, with a notable concentration of investment within the immediate the suburb of Thursday Island vicinity.
How does the suburb of Thursday Island's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
Infrastructure development activity impacting the suburb of Thursday Island currently ranks below national averages at the 37thth percentile.
Saila Terrace Townhouses
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   

Masterplanned 20 townhouse development on Waiben (Thursday Island) commissioned by the Torres Strait Regional Authority, with climate responsive house types that follow the steep topography, maximise ocean views, and use robust materials and roof forms suited to remote tropical construction and severe weather.

Residential Development

Thursday Island Affordable Modular Homes
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2025
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A partnership between the Queensland Government Housing Investment Fund, the Uniting Church in Australia Property Trust and modular builder Oly Homes has delivered eight affordable modular homes on Thursday Island. The project, located on church land at 6 Chester Street and 142 Douglas Street, includes a mix of one and two bedroom homes, studio units and accessible units designed for the local climate and cultural needs. The homes were factory built on the mainland, transported to Thursday Island and installed in around eight months, with tenants moving in from early 2025.

Residential Development

Victoria Parade Units
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2016
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A three storey community housing complex on Thursday Island providing 16 two bedroom units on a single 2,783 m2 site for Queensland Government staff and community housing tenants. The project was delivered by Hutchinson Builders for the Queensland Department of Housing and Public Works, with a strong focus on Indigenous employment and local procurement, and was completed in 2016.

Residential Development

Nhulunbuy Master Plan
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2030
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A strategic roadmap guiding the redevelopment and renewal of Nhulunbuy as it transitions from a mining town to a sustainable regional hub. The plan translates the Yolngu Traditional Owners' Vision into a framework for future land tenure, essential services, and infrastructure, ensuring long-term liveability post-2029 mine closure.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Bunggulwuy Close Housing Development
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A landmark $7 million community-led housing initiative to deliver 11 new two-bedroom units (four duplexes and a triplex) in Nhulunbuy. The homes are designed to meet long-term accommodation needs for essential service providers like St John NT and Miwatj Health Aboriginal Corporation, and the project includes a strong commitment to Aboriginal employment and training opportunities, supporting the post-mining economic transition of the region.

Residential Development

Gunyangara (Gove Port) Tourism Precinct
Category: Tourism
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2025

A $9.3 million upgrade of marine and land tourism infrastructure at Inverell Bay, Gunyangara, near Nhulunbuy, to support tourism and marine industry growth in East Arnhem as the region diversifies away from mining. Works delivered over three packages included a new 100 metre extended rock groyne, careening facilities for vessel maintenance, a 60 metre detachable floating pontoon, a washdown bay, sealed car park and lighting upgrades, a new entry structure, toilet facilities, and shade and seating at Gove Boat Club.Early works were completed in 2022, with the main $6.9 million construction package running from September 2024 to August 2025. The project achieved 28 percent Aboriginal employment and was officially opened in December 2025. Gove Boat Club now operates the facilities in collaboration with the Ngarrariyal Aboriginal Corporation and Gumatj Corporation.

Tourism

Cooktown Multi-Purpose Health Service Redevelopment
Category: Health
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2030
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A $200 million redevelopment of the Cooktown Multipurpose Health Service (CMPHS) to replace the existing 1980s facility with a modern, culturally appropriate hospital serving Cook Shire and surrounding Cape York communities. Delivered by Health Infrastructure Queensland in partnership with Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service under the Crisafulli Government's Hospital Rescue Plan, the redevelopment will expand capacity to up to 24 beds including maternity, isolation, high dependency and short-stay beds. New facilities include an Emergency Department with medical imaging, resuscitation and treatment bays, shell space for future CT scanning, a new operating theatre and procedure room, an adjacent birthing suite to restore maternity services lost in 2022, ambulatory and specialist outpatient services, a culturally appropriate main entry, and a new support services building, alongside partial refurbishment of the existing hospital.Architecture firm BVN was appointed as design consultant in August 2025. Concept design is due by April 2026, schematic design by August 2026, and detailed design by January 2027, with phase one construction set to commence in 2026 and completion expected in the 2029-30 financial year. The project will improve access to care, restore birthing services, and support staff recruitment and retention in Far North Queensland.

Health

Gigers Residential Subdivision
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Greenfield residential subdivision at 2 Hope Street, Cooktown, reconfiguring one lot into 12 residential lots under Cook Shire DA/4310 with operational works approval DA/4590. Currently under construction as an elevated cul-de-sac offering lots from 902sqm to 1,756sqm. Supported by the Queensland Government's $1.1 million Residential Activation Fund to deliver trunk infrastructure including water, sewer, underground power, and NBN.

Residential Development

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Thursday Island

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1,363 residents of Thursday Island are employed, from a labour force of 1,437. Unemployment sits at 5.1%, with participation at 67.7%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 7.3% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth. The working-day population is estimated at 2,165, about 76% of the resident population, so more people leave the area for work than travel in. Unemployment and labour force come from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, updated quarterly; the industry and occupation profile is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

The suburb of Thursday Island has a skilled workforce with a strong presence in essential services and an unemployment rate of 5.1%, according to aggregated statistical data from AreaSearch. In March 2026, there are 1,363 employed residents. The unemployment rate is 1.2% higher than the Regional Qld rate of 3.9%, while workforce participation is relatively typical at 67.7% compared to 64.3% in Regional Qld. Census data shows that a low 4.2% of workers operated from home, though this figure may have been affected by Covid-19 pandemic restrictions. Local employment is largely centered in health care & social assistance, public administration & safety, and education & training.

The area exhibits a high concentration in public administration & safety, with employment in this sector reaching 3.5 times the regional average. Conversely, manufacturing is significantly underrepresented, accounting for only 0.2% of the local workforce compared to 5.6% across Regional Qld. The highly residential nature of the suburb appears to limit local job availability, as shown by the comparison of Census working population to resident population. An analysis of SALM and ABS statistics aggregated from broader statistical regions by AreaSearch shows that during the 12 months ending March 2026, the local labour force contracted by 1.3% and total employment fell by 1.5%, which caused the unemployment rate to rise by 0.2 percentage points. Over the same period, Regional Qld saw employment grow by 0.1% and the labour force expand by 0.3%, resulting in a 0.1 percentage point increase. National employment forecasts from May-25 by Jobs and Skills Australia provide further context on future demand trends for the suburb of Thursday Island. These forecasts, spanning five and ten-year horizons, have been applied to the local workforce profile to project potential growth patterns. Although overall national employment is projected to grow by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, the rates of change vary widely across different industries. Applying these sector-specific trends to the local employment structure suggests that employment in the suburb of Thursday Island could rise by 7.3% over five years and 15.0% over ten years, though this is a simple weighted projection and does not account for localized population changes.

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the suburb of Thursday Island?
As of March 2026, the suburb of Thursday Island has approximately 1,363 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 5.1%. The unemployment rate is moderate, indicating some available workforce capacity. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement.
How does the suburb of Thursday Island's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Thursday Island stands at 5.1%, which is 1.2 percentage points above Regional Qld's rate of 3.9%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
What are the major employment sectors in the suburb of Thursday Island?
The employment landscape in the suburb of Thursday Island is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (27.8% of employment), public administration & safety (20.4%), and education & training (14.4%). These three sectors alone account for 62.6% of local employment, indicating significant concentration. Other significant employers include construction and retail trade.
How has employment changed recently in the suburb of Thursday Island?
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Thursday Island 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 Thursday Island?
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Thursday Island is 67.7%, 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 Thursday Island's employment market?
The suburb of thursday island shows notable specialization in public administration & safety, which employs 20.4% of the local workforce compared to 5.9% regionally. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 3.5, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
What are the employment growth prospects for the suburb of Thursday Island?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the suburb of Thursday Island's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 7.3% over the next five years and 15.0% 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 Thursday Island compare nationally?
The suburb of thursday island's employment market shows below-average performance in national comparisons. While employment opportunities exist, the area faces more challenges than many other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 2.5% growth, ranking 6.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the suburb of Thursday Island?
Skilled workers will find excellent opportunities in the suburb of Thursday Island, with knowledge-intensive sectors comprising 45.4% of local employment. Key sectors for skilled workers include health care & social assistance (27.8%), education & training (14.4%), and professional & technical (2.1%). With projected employment growth of 7.3% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Thursday Island

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Median household income in Thursday Island is $2,136 a week (about $111,000 a year), with median personal income at $902 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $51,667 a year against an average of $61,586. 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

Aggregated postcode-level ATO data released for the financial year 2023 indicates that taxpayers in the suburb of Thursday Island recorded a median income of $51,667 and an average income of $61,586. These figures are below the national benchmarks and compare to median and average incomes of $53,146 and $66,593 in Regional Qld. Adjusted for a Wage Price Index increase of 11.36% since financial year 2023, estimated incomes as of March 2026 would stand at approximately $57,536 for the median and $68,582 for the average. In the 2021 Census, household, family, and individual incomes in the suburb of Thursday Island were positioned around the 70th percentile nationally.

Income distribution shows that 38.4% of the population (1,091 individuals) earn between $1,500 and $2,999, which is comparable to the wider region where this bracket accounts for 31.7% of taxpayers. After accounting for housing costs, residents retain 91.4% of their income, indicating substantial disposable income.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the suburb of Thursday Island?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Thursday Island is approximately $57,536. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $51,667.
What is the average taxable income in the suburb of Thursday Island?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Thursday Island is approximately $68,582. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $61,586.
How does the median taxable income in the suburb of Thursday Island compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Thursday Island is approximately $57,536 compared to $59,183 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $51,667 and $53,146 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the suburb of Thursday Island compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Thursday Island is approximately $68,582 compared to $74,158 in Regional Qld. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $61,586 and $66,593 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the suburb of Thursday Island according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~38.4% / 1,091 persons) of the suburb of Thursday Island's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the suburb of Thursday Island compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the suburb of Thursday Island is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 38.4% 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 Thursday Island according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Thursday Island is $2,136/wk.
What is the median family income in the suburb of Thursday Island according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Thursday Island is $2,056/wk.
What is the median personal income in the suburb of Thursday Island according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Thursday Island is $902/wk.
How does the suburb of Thursday Island's income rank nationally?
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-23 reveals that income in the suburb of Thursday Island is below the national average, with the median assessed at $51,667 while the average income stands at $61,586. This contrasts to Regional Qld's figures of a median income of $53,146 and an average income of $66,593. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 11.36% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $57,536 (median) and $68,582 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the suburb of Thursday Island?
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Thursday Island is $8,459 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the suburb of Thursday Island's disposable income compare to the region?
The suburb of thursday island's disposable income is $8,459 compared to $5,480 for Regional Qld, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Thursday Island

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Thursday Island had 742 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 58% detached houses and 11% apartments. 3% are owned with a mortgage, 87% rented and 10% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $200 a week and the median mortgage repayment $1,408 a month. Rent absorbs 9.4% of household income here and mortgage repayments 15.2%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

Residential dwelling types in the suburb of Thursday Island at the time of the latest Census consisted of 57.9% houses and 42.1% alternative housing types, such as apartments, semi-detached properties, and other structures, compared to 76.4% houses and 23.6% other dwellings across Regional Qld. Home ownership rates in the suburb of Thursday Island were low at 9.8%, with the remaining properties occupied by households with a mortgage (3.0%) or renting tenants (87.2%). The median monthly mortgage payment in the area was $1,408, which is lower than the Regional Qld median of $1,655, while the median weekly rent was $200 compared to $345 in Regional Qld.

Nationally, mortgage costs in the suburb of Thursday Island are lower than the Australian median of $1,863, and rent prices are below the national median of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the suburb of Thursday Island?
In the suburb of Thursday Island, 9.8% of homes are owned outright, 3.0% are owned with a mortgage, and 87.2% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the suburb of Thursday Island are houses?
According to the latest data, 57.9% of dwellings in the suburb of Thursday Island are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the suburb of Thursday Island are apartments or units?
In the suburb of Thursday Island, 10.8% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 30.2% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the suburb of Thursday Island?
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Thursday Island stands at 9.8%, compared to 33.4% in Regional Qld.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Thursday Island?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Thursday Island is $1,408, compared to $1,655 in Regional Qld.
What is the median weekly rent in the suburb of Thursday Island?
The median weekly rent in the suburb of Thursday Island is $200, compared to $345 in Regional Qld.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the suburb of Thursday Island?
In the suburb of Thursday Island, 36.6% of rentals are $0-149/week, 49.4% are $150-349/week, 11.1% are $350-649/week, 1.9% are $650-949/week, and 1.0% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the suburb of Thursday Island?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Thursday Island is $797, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the suburb of Thursday Island?
In the suburb of Thursday Island, households with mortgages typically spend 15.2% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 9.4% of their income on rent.
How crowded are homes in the suburb of Thursday Island?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Thursday Island is 1.2, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the suburb of Thursday Island compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the suburb of Thursday Island shows mortgage holders spending 15.2% of income on repayments (vs 25.3% regionally), while renters spend 9.4% of income on rent (vs 22.9% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the suburb of Thursday Island?
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Thursday Island consists of 57.9% detached houses, 30.2% semi-detached dwellings, 10.8% apartments, and 1.1% other dwelling types.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the suburb of Thursday Island?
Factoring in the ownership distribution, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $797. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $1,408/month, and renters paying $866/month.
How affordable is housing in the suburb of Thursday Island relative to local incomes?
Housing in Thursday Island consumes approximately 8.6% of median household income ($9,249 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 Thursday Island?
Development activity remains minimal in this area with fewer than 5 recent applications recorded.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Thursday Island

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Thursday Island counted 742 households at the 2021 Census, averaging 3.2 people each. 34% are couples with children, against 18% couples without children. 23% of households are people living alone, and families average 2.1 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Families make up 73.6% of all households in the area, consisting of couples with children at 34.0%, couples without children at 18.0%, and single parents at 18.9%. Non-family households account for the remaining 26.4%, with single-person households representing 23.1% and group households making up 3.1%. The median household occupancy of 3.2 people is higher than the Regional Qld average of 2.5.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the suburb of Thursday Island?
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Thursday Island had 742 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 1.3% to an estimated 752 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median household size in the suburb of Thursday Island is 3.2 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 73.6% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (23.1%), group households (3.1%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 546 family households, 34.0% are couples with children, 18.0% are couples without children at home, and 18.9% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the suburb of Thursday Island compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Regional Qld, the suburb of Thursday Island 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 Thursday Island have an average of 2.1 children, slightly above 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 Thursday Island?
Marriage patterns reveal 26.5% of the adult population are currently married, while 61.4% 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 23.1% of all households in the suburb of Thursday Island, 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 3.1% 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 Thursday Island

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21.1% of adults in Thursday Island hold a university qualification, including 14.8% with a bachelor degree and 3.6% with postgraduate qualifications, lower than 80% of areas nationally. A further 31.6% hold a vocational qualification. 4 schools serve the area, with 1,385 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 830 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

Academic attainment in the suburb of Thursday Island is lower than regional averages, with 21.1% of residents aged 15+ holding a tertiary degree compared to 30.4% nationally. This difference points to opportunities for future educational and vocational training. Among degree holders, Bachelor degrees are most common at 14.8%, followed by postgraduate degrees (3.6%) and graduate diplomas (2.7%). Vocational and technical training is highly prevalent, with 41.5% of residents aged 15+ holding qualifications in these areas, including advanced diplomas (9.9%) and certificates (31.6%). Enrolment in education is exceptionally high, with 35.0% of the population currently participating in academic programs.

This cohort includes 16.8% in primary schools, 10.8% in secondary schools, and 3.1% in higher education.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the suburb of Thursday Island have university qualifications?
21.1% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Thursday Island have university qualifications, compared to 20.6% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the suburb of Thursday Island have no formal qualifications?
37.4% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Thursday Island have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.2% regionally.
How does the suburb of Thursday Island's education level compare to national averages?
The suburb of thursday island ranks in the 20th 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 Thursday Island?
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Thursday Island are: Certificate (31.6%), Bachelor Degree (14.8%), Advanced Diploma (9.9%).
What proportion of the suburb of Thursday Island's population is currently attending educational institutions?
35.0% of the population in the suburb of Thursday Island is currently engaged in formal education, with 16.8% in primary school, 10.8% in secondary school, 3.1% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the suburb of Thursday Island?
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Thursday Island is 830, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
How many schools are located within the suburb of Thursday Island?
There are 4 schools within the suburb of Thursday Island, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,385 students.
What types of schools are available in the suburb of Thursday Island?
The suburb of thursday island includes 2 primary schools, 1 secondary school, 1 combined school.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Thursday Island

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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Thursday Island

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Getting around Thursday Island means driving: households keep an average of 0.8 vehicles, and no scheduled public transport appears in the current timetable feeds. Service data is built from operators' published GTFS timetables; vehicle ownership is from the 2021 Census.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

Is public transport available in Thursday Island?
Limited or no public transport data is available for the suburb of Thursday Island.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Thursday Island

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80.1% of residents in Thursday Island report no long-term health condition. 3.5% need daily assistance with core activities, and 51.6% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 6.5 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Medical indicators point to generally positive outcomes for residents of the suburb of Thursday Island. An analysis of mortality rates and medical conditions by AreaSearch shows outcomes that are consistent with national averages, with standard rates of common health conditions across both younger and older demographics. The rate of private health insurance is low, covering approximately 52% of the population, which represents about 1,465 people. Diabetes and asthma are the most common chronic conditions in the locality, affecting 7.1% and 5.4% of the population. Conversely, 80.1% of residents reported having no chronic medical conditions, which is higher than the 67.6% recorded across Regional Qld.

The suburb of Thursday Island has 10.4% of its population aged 65 and older (295 people), which is lower than the Regional Qld average of 20.4%. Health measures for older residents are positive, with national rankings exceeding those of the general local population.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the suburb of Thursday Island have private health insurance?
Around 51.6% of people in the suburb of Thursday Island 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 Thursday Island?
In the suburb of Thursday Island, 3.5% 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 Thursday Island?
5.4% of people in the suburb of Thursday Island 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 Thursday Island?
Diabetes affects 7.1% of the the suburb of Thursday Island 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 Thursday Island?
2.7% of people in the suburb of Thursday Island have heart disease. Across the region of Regional Qld, 4.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the suburb of Thursday Island compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the suburb of Thursday Island, 51.6% 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 Thursday Island

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Thursday Island is largely Australian-born, at 92.8% of residents, with 53.6% speaking a language other than English at home. The largest reported ancestries are Australian Aboriginal (15.4%) and Australian (11.9%). 15.4% of residents identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

The suburb of Thursday Island exhibits a high level of cultural diversity, with 7.2% of residents born outside Australia and 53.6% speaking a language other than English at home. Christianity is the predominant religion, followed by 75.0% of the population, compared to 52.2% across Regional Qld. Regarding parental country of birth, the three most common ancestries in the suburb of Thursday Island are Other at 51.3% of the population (much higher than the regional average of 6.9%), Australian Aboriginal at 15.4% (well above the regional average of 3.9%), and Australian at 11.9% (considerably below the regional average of 26.5%).

Other ethnic groups also show notable variations: Samoan heritage is represented at 0.8% (compared to 0.2% regionally) and Maori heritage at 0.5% (compared to 0.8% regionally).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the suburb of Thursday Island?
Thursday Island was found to be above average in terms of cultural diversity, with 7.2% of its population born overseas and 53.6% speaking a language other than English at home.
What is the most common religion in the suburb of Thursday Island?
The main religion in Thursday Island was found to be Christianity, which makes up 75.0% of people in Thursday Island. This compares to 52.2% across Regional Qld.
What are the top countries of origin in the suburb of Thursday Island?
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Thursday Island are Other, comprising 51.3% of the population, which is substantially higher than the regional average of 6.9%, Australian Aboriginal, comprising 15.4% of the population, which is substantially higher than the regional average of 3.9%, and Australian, comprising 11.9% of the population, which is notably lower than the regional average of 26.5%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Samoan is notably overrepresented at 0.8% of Thursday Island (vs 0.2% regionally) and Maori at 0.5% (vs 0.8%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
7.2% of the the suburb of Thursday Island population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% regionally.
What percentage of the the suburb of Thursday Island population speaks a language other than English at home?
53.6% of the population in the suburb of Thursday Island speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.6% in the wider region.
How many people in the suburb of Thursday Island identify as Australian Aboriginal?
15.4% of the the suburb of Thursday Island population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.9% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the suburb of Thursday Island?
91.2% of the the suburb of Thursday Island population holds citizenship, compared to 84.9% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Thursday Island

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The median resident of Thursday Island is 30, younger than 96% of areas nationally. 30.7% 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

The median age in the suburb of Thursday Island is 30 years, which is lower than the Regional Qld average of 41 and the national average of 38 years. Compared to Regional Qld, the suburb of Thursday Island has a higher proportion of children aged 5 - 14 (17.4%) but fewer people aged 75 - 84 (2.5%). The proportion of children aged 5 - 14 is higher than the national average of 12.0%. Since the 2021 Census, the proportion of residents aged 65 to 74 increased from 5.0% to 7.1%.

Meanwhile, the 5 to 14 age bracket decreased from 19.5% to 17.4% and the 55 to 64 bracket fell from 10.3% to 8.8%. Demographic projections for 2041 point to significant changes, with the 25 to 34 age group projected to grow the most, rising by 19% or 81 residents to reach a total of 505. Conversely, the population of the 65 to 74 and 55 to 64 brackets is expected to decline.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the suburb of Thursday Island?
According to the latest data, the median age in the suburb of Thursday Island is 30 years.
How does the suburb of Thursday Island's median age compare to broader areas?
At 30 years, Thursday Island is 11 years younger than the Regional Qld average (41 years) and 8 years younger than the national average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the suburb of Thursday Island?
The most over-represented age group in the suburb of Thursday Island compared to the Regional Qld region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 17.4% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the suburb of Thursday Island?
The most under-represented age group in the suburb of Thursday Island compared to the Regional Qld region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 2.5% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Thursday Island show significant variance compared to the Regional Qld region. The most over-represented age groups are 0-4 year-olds (8.5% vs 5.4%) and 5-14 year-olds (17.4% vs 12.2%). The most under-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (0.8% vs 2.3%) and 75-84 year-olds (2.5% vs 7.1%).
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the suburb of Thursday Island?
The percentage of children aged 0-14 years in the suburb of Thursday Island is 25.9%.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the suburb of Thursday Island?
The percentage of people aged 65 and over in the suburb of Thursday Island is 10.4%.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Thursday Island

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 Nov 2025 9 months ago all 3 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 Nov 2025.
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) Jul 2026 last 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 — 7 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for May 2026, not a 2021 count (2,805 at the 2021 Census → 2,842 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 (SAL32823). 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 Thursday Island 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 Thursday Island 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 Thursday Island 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 (Nov 2025) 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 Jul 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