Upper Ferntree Gully

Suburb (SAL)

Greater Melbourne / Knox

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Data Sources ABSValuer GeneralRental BoardACARA Newest Aug 2026 · Refreshed ABS QuickStats SAL22614 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 Upper Ferntree Gully

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DemographicsPopulation Growth in Upper Ferntree Gully

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Upper Ferntree Gully has an estimated 3,403 residents. The population has thinned by an average 0.5% a year over five years, slower than 93% of areas nationally. That puts 1,016 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

Analyzing ABS updates for the region alongside new residential addresses confirmed by AreaSearch post-Census, the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully has an estimated population of approximately 3,403 as of May 2026. This represents a minor drop of 14 people (0.4%) relative to the 2021 Census count of 3,417 people. The calculation is derived from a resident headcount of 3,394 estimated by AreaSearch using the ABS demographic release from June 2025, combined with a single verified new address since the Census. This population size results in a density of 1,015 persons per square kilometer, matching typical averages for areas monitored by AreaSearch.

Growth locally was mostly supported by international arrivals, who accounted for about 52.0% of the overall population increases lately. AreaSearch incorporates SA2-level growth projections from ABS and Geoscience Australia published in 2024 using 2022 as the base year. For SA2 territories where this is unavailable, figures are sourced from the 2023 VIC State Government Regional/LGA projections, scaled down to SA2 zones via weighted population averages. The age distribution trends from these calculations are applied to the years 2032 through 2041. Future demographic movements indicate expansion will track slightly below the national median, with the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully projected to add 171 residents by 2041, representing a total growth rate of 4.8% over the 16 years.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
Total population for the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully was estimated to be approximately 3,403 as at May 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 3,394 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully changed since 2021?
The suburb of upper ferntree gully has lost approximately 14 people and shown a 0.41% decrease from the 3,417 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
The population density in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully is estimated at 1,015 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 Upper Ferntree Gully?
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully has shown a compound annual growth rate of -0.5% per annum.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
Population growth in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully is driven by: Overseas migration (52.0%), Natural increase (48.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 52.0% of overall population gains.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Upper Ferntree Gully

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20 new dwellings have been approved in Upper Ferntree Gully over the past five years, an average of 4 a year. That is 1.2 approvals per 1,000 residents. Approvals are currently running at an annualised 2, 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

According to AreaSearch's evaluation of ABS building approval records mapped to local statistical boundaries, the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully averages approximately 4 approved residential dwellings annually. This totals an estimated 20 homes approved over the past 5 financial years (from FY-21 to FY-25), with 2 approvals registered in FY-26 so far. Because the resident population decreased recently, the volume of new completions has likely matched local demand, maintaining options for prospective buyers. The average estimated building value of these new dwellings is $575,000, indicating a focus by builders on upscale, premium projects.

Additionally, commercial development approvals total $12.8 million for the current financial year, indicating a moderate level of commercial building activity. Recent construction approvals consist of 60.0% standalone houses and 40.0% semi-detached or high-density dwellings. This highlights an increasing proportion of medium-density choices, offering a diverse selection of housing styles and price ranges from conventional family residences to compact, economical alternatives. This is a clear departure from the historical housing pattern of the area, which currently comprises 97.0% standalone houses, signaling a shortage of vacant residential land, shifting preferences, and a demand for more varied, cost-effective options. With roughly 6802 people for every approval, the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully presents as an established, fully developed community. Long-term demographic projections suggest the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully will add 162 inhabitants through to 2041, based on the latest quarterly calculations from AreaSearch. If building activity continues at its current pace, additions to the housing stock may not keep up with this growth, which could increase competition among buyers and put upward pressure on prices.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully area has seen 1 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully's current population of 3,403 has been supported by 4 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully's development activity compare to the broader region?
The suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully has seen 0.12 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.9 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 6802 people in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully, compared to one for every 125 in the broader region.
Is the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully keeping up with housing demand?
With the population expected to increase by 162 people by 2041, around 81 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 Upper Ferntree Gully?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 4, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
How many dwellings will be needed to accommodate future population growth in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
The population in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully is expected to grow by 162 people by 2041, necessitating approximately 81 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 Upper Ferntree Gully?
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully has grown by approximately 16 people, while 20 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 0.8 people added for each new dwelling approval. This low ratio indicates housing supply is outpacing population growth, potentially creating market oversupply.
Are there opportunities for residential developers in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 4 approvals per year and a population of 3,403, there appears to be a supply shortfall relative to projected demand, presenting strong opportunities for residential developers. With the population expected to increase by 162 people by 2041, around 81 new dwellings will be necessary. Current approval trends may be insufficient to meet forecast demand, indicating strong development opportunities.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Upper Ferntree Gully

Development applications around Upper Ferntree Gully

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.
Application search is not available in Victoria. AreaSearch holds 15 applications for Upper Ferntree Gully, but they are a record of past activity rather than a current register. Victoria has no state-wide planning portal and its council coverage is uneven, so we have switched the search off here rather than return partial answers. We are currently investigating a solution. No credits are charged for Victorian applications, and building approvals from the ABS and the major projects we track are unaffected.

SOURCE: Planning portals and council registers, compiled by AreaSearch. Distance & bearing measured from the suburb midpoint.

Project PipelineInfrastructure & Major Projects in Upper Ferntree Gully

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AreaSearch tracks one current infrastructure or development project inside Upper Ferntree Gully, worth an estimated $112 million. A further 40 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $2.6 billion. 12 are already under construction and 7 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans residential development, transport & logistics and sports & recreation. 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, planning initiatives, and major developments have a significant influence on property market conditions. A total of 3 major projects have been tracked by AreaSearch that are expected to influence the local area. Principal developments include the Angliss Hospital Expansion, the Kings Park Masterplan, the Woolworths Ferntree Gully eCommerce Expansion, and the Fairpark Reserve, with detailed descriptions of the most significant projects provided 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 Upper Ferntree Gully?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully include: Angliss Hospital Expansion (Construction); Kings Park Masterplan (Construction); Woolworths Ferntree Gully eCommerce Expansion (Completed); Fairpark Reserve (Completed); and Dandenong Ranges Environmental Protection Program (Under Assessment). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Environmental & Disaster Management, and Sports & Recreation, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates substantial capital deployment exceeding $15.2 billion in projects that will impact the extended area.
How does the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
The suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully shows moderate infrastructure development relative to national averages, with opportunities for future growth and investment.
Angliss Hospital Expansion
Category: Health & Medical
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A $112 million major redevelopment featuring a new four-storey, all-electric tower. The expansion delivers a 32-bed inpatient unit, four state-of-the-art operating theatres, a new central sterile supply department, and expanded outpatient and allied health services. Major structural works were completed in July 2025, and the project is currently in the fit-out and final construction phase to increase surgical capacity for the Knox and Yarra Ranges communities.

Health & Medical

13 Mountain Gate Drive Townhouses
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Under Assessment | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   

A residential development featuring three 2-bedroom townhouses, each spanning two storeys, designed for modern and spacious living. Located in Ferntree Gully within the City of Knox. The development application has been submitted with estimated completion in mid-2026.

Residential Development

Bluett Reserve Playground Upgrade
Category: Sports & Recreation
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   

As part of the 2025-26 capital works program, Knox City Council is investing in the renewal of local playgrounds, including the one at Bluett Reserve in Ferntree Gully. The project aims to improve the recreational facilities for the local community.

Sports & Recreation

Kings Park Masterplan
Category: Sports & Recreation
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2025
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Knox City Council's long-term master plan to upgrade Kings Park, a key sporting and recreation precinct. Stage 1 delivers a fully fenced dog park featuring two distinct off-leash zones, sealed path circuits, picnic seating, drinking fountains, and site drainage improvements. Future stages for parkland enhancement remain subject to council planning and annual capital works budgeting.

Sports & Recreation

Boronia Station Upgrade & Plaza
Category: Transport & Logistics
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Upgrade of Boronia Station and creation of a new landscaped plaza connecting to Dorset Road. Scope includes widened concourse, entrance canopies, relocated ticket and PSO offices, upgraded platform shelters and waiting room, new pedestrian crossing, improved pick-up/drop-off on Lupton Way, accessibility upgrades, enhanced lighting and CCTV. A new pocket park near Boronia Junction Shopping Centre is also included. Early works commenced in 2025 with geotechnical investigations along Lupton Way. Major works scheduled for early 2026 with the upgraded station, plaza and pocket park to open by end of 2026.Delivered by an alliance of Acciona, WSP and Metro Trains Melbourne under the Level Crossing Removal Project.

Transport & Logistics

Ferntree Gully Village Creative Placemaking Plan
Category: Arts & Culture
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2024
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Community-driven arts and cultural development project transforming public spaces in Ferntree Gully Village through murals, sculptures, lightbox galleries, and parklet upgrades to enhance safety, community connection, and local pride.

Arts & Culture

Burwood Highway-McMahons Road Intersection Upgrade
Category: Transport & Logistics
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2024
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Upgraded intersection at Burwood Highway, McMahons Road and Clyde Street in Ferntree Gully completed in 2024. Includes extra lanes in each direction on Burwood Highway, new traffic lights with dedicated pedestrian crossings, more street lights, dedicated right turn lanes, shared left turn and through lanes, and a dedicated left turn lane into Clyde Street with improved business access. Improves safety, reduces crashes, and enhances traffic flow.

Transport & Logistics

Woolworths Ferntree Gully eCommerce Expansion
Category: Retail
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2025
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A comprehensive 14-week upgrade project to enhance the store's direct-to-boot operations and eCommerce capabilities. The initiative focused on expanding store facilities and improving click-and-collect services through major store extension, civil works, installation of new precast panels, structural steel frameworks, a new canopy, and significant refrigeration and cool room works. All construction was executed within a live trading environment to minimize disruption to daily store operations.

Retail

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Upper Ferntree Gully

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1,969 residents of Upper Ferntree Gully are employed, from a labour force of 2,030. Unemployment sits at 3.0%, with participation at 70.2%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 6.7% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth. The working-day population is estimated at 2,922, about 86% 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 Upper Ferntree Gully has a highly qualified workforce with strong representation in key service sectors, an unemployment rate of just 3.0%, and an annual employment expansion rate of 1.7% based on AreaSearch statistical area aggregations. In March 2026, working residents numbered 1,969, with the local unemployment rate sitting 1.8% below the Greater Melbourne level of 4.8%. The labor participation rate matches the Greater Melbourne benchmark of 70.2%. Census figures show a high 30.3% of workers performed their duties from home, though this may have been influenced by COVID-19 restriction periods.

The primary employment sectors for local workers are health care & social assistance, construction, and education & training. The area exhibits a high concentration of construction jobs, with its share of employment reaching 1.4 times the regional proportion. In contrast, the financial & insurance services sector is underrepresented, making up 2.9% of local jobs compared to the metropolitan average of 4.9%. Because of the discrepancy between the local working population and resident headcount, this residential district offers few local employment opportunities. Based on AreaSearch research using SALM and ABS statistics for the surrounding region, employment rose by 1.7% and the active workforce grew by 1.8% over the 12 months ending March 2026, leaving local unemployment virtually unchanged. In comparison, Greater Melbourne saw employment rise by 2.1%, the workforce grow by 2.3%, and the unemployment rate tick up by 0.2 percentage points. National employment projections from May-25 compiled by Jobs and Skills Australia provide further context regarding future labor demand for the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully. These forecasts, looking out five and ten years, are mapped to the local industry mix to project growth. Nationwide employment is projected to grow by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, though prospects vary widely by sector. Applying these industry projections locally suggest a job growth rate of 6.7% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, assuming a basic weighted calculation that excludes local demographic projections.

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
As of March 2026, the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully has approximately 1,969 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.0%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
How does the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully stands at 3.0%, which is 1.8 percentage points below Greater Melbourne's rate of 4.8%. 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 Upper Ferntree Gully?
The employment landscape in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (15.6% of employment), construction (13.4%), and education & training (10.7%). Other significant employers include professional & technical and retail trade.
How has employment changed recently in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has rise. By comparison, Greater Melbourne saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
What is the workforce participation rate in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully is 70.2%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This high participation rate indicates strong workforce engagement and economic vitality. The local rate matching the Greater Melbourne average of 70.2%, showing similar workforce dynamics to the broader region.
Which industries are over-represented in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully's employment market?
The suburb of upper ferntree gully shows notable specialization in construction, which employs 13.4% of the local workforce compared to 9.7% regionally. This moderate specialization indicates some local strength in the sector.
What are the employment growth prospects for the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 6.7% over the next five years and 13.7% 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 Upper Ferntree Gully compare nationally?
The suburb of upper ferntree gully'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 8.9% decline, ranking 34.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
Skilled workers will find excellent opportunities in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully, with knowledge-intensive sectors comprising 40.1% of local employment. Key sectors for skilled workers include health care & social assistance (15.6%), education & training (10.7%), and professional & technical (9.4%). With projected employment growth of 6.7% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Upper Ferntree Gully

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Median household income in Upper Ferntree Gully is $2,039 a week (about $106,000 a year), with median personal income at $847 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $54,943 a year against an average of $68,263. 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

The latest postcode-level ATO data compiled by AreaSearch for the 2023 financial year shows that incomes in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully align closely with national benchmarks, showing a median value of $54,943 and an average of $68,263. These figures are lower than the Greater Melbourne median of $57,688 and average of $75,164. Adjusting for a Wage Price Index rise of 9.62% since the 2023 financial year, current estimates point to a median income of $60,229 and an average of $74,830 as of March 2026. Census findings place household, family, and individual incomes in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully around the 62nd percentile nationwide.

Looking at individual earnings, 33.6% of residents (representing 1,143 people) earn between $1,500 - 2,999, which is comparable to the Greater Melbourne share of 32.8%. Housing costs consume 13.6% of earnings, while strong disposable incomes place residents in the 72nd percentile nationally, and the area sits in the 6th decile on the SEIFA economic index.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully is approximately $60,229. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $54,943.
What is the average taxable income in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully is approximately $74,830. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $68,263.
How does the median taxable income in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully is approximately $60,229 compared to $63,238 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $54,943 and $57,688 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully is approximately $74,830 compared to $82,395 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $68,263 and $75,164 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~33.6% / 1,143 persons) of the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 33.6% of the population. In comparison, Greater Melbourne's largest income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 32.8% of its population, according to the 2021 Census.
What is the median household income in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully is $2,039/wk.
What is the median family income in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully is $2,411/wk.
What is the median personal income in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully is $847/wk.
How does the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully's income rank nationally?
As per AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-23, the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully's median income among taxpayers is $54,943, with an average of $68,263. This is in line with the national averages, and compares to Greater Melbourne's median of $57,688 and average of $75,164. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 9.62% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $60,229 (median) and $74,830 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully is $7,638 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully's disposable income compare to the region?
The suburb of upper ferntree gully's disposable income is $7,638 compared to $6,948 for Greater Melbourne, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Upper Ferntree Gully

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Upper Ferntree Gully had 1,234 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 97% detached houses and 2% apartments. 49% are owned with a mortgage, 14% rented and 37% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $369 a week and the median mortgage repayment $2,000 a month. Rent absorbs 18.1% of household income here and mortgage repayments 22.6%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

According to the latest Census, the local housing mix in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully consisted of 97.0% detached houses and 3.1% alternative dwellings like apartments, townhouses, and other categories, compared to Melbourne's wider distribution of 67.9% detached houses and 32.1% alternative options. Home ownership rates in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully were substantially higher than the Melbourne metropolitan average, with 37.3% of homes owned outright, while the remaining properties were either mortgaged (48.7%) or occupied by renters (14.0%). The median monthly home loan payment was $2,000, matching the Melbourne metropolitan median, while the median weekly rental cost was $369, compared to metropolitan values of $2,000 and $390.

On a national scale, mortgage payments exceed the Australian average of $1,863, whereas rental prices are lower than the national median of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
In the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully, 37.3% of homes are owned outright, 48.7% are owned with a mortgage, and 14.0% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully are houses?
According to the latest data, 97.0% of dwellings in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully are apartments or units?
In the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully, 1.6% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 1.5% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully stands at 37.3%, compared to 30.7% in Greater Melbourne.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully is $2,000, compared to $2,000 in Greater Melbourne.
What is the median weekly rent in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
The median weekly rent in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully is $369, compared to $390 in Greater Melbourne.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
In the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully, 2.5% of rentals are $0-149/week, 40.1% are $150-349/week, 55.4% are $350-649/week, 1.9% are $650-949/week, and 0.0% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully is $1,197, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
In the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully, households with mortgages typically spend 22.6% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 18.1% of their income on rent.
How crowded are homes in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully shows mortgage holders spending 22.6% of income on repayments (vs 24.3% regionally), while renters spend 18.1% of income on rent (vs 20.5% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully consists of 97.0% detached houses, 1.5% semi-detached dwellings, 1.6% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
Based on the area's tenure composition, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $1,198. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $2,000/month, and renters paying $1,598/month.
How affordable is housing in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully relative to local incomes?
Housing in Upper Ferntree Gully consumes approximately 13.6% of median household income ($8,829 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 Upper Ferntree Gully?
No recent development applications are recorded for this area.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Upper Ferntree Gully

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Upper Ferntree Gully counted 1,234 households at the 2021 Census, averaging 2.6 people each. 36% are couples with children, against 27% 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 74.9% of all local households, consisting of 36.0% couples with children, 26.6% couples without children, and 11.1% single-parent households. Non-family living arrangements account for the remaining 25.1%, with single-person households representing 22.8% and group households making up 2.2% of the total. The median household size of 2.6 residents matches the Greater Melbourne average.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully had 1,234 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has remained relatively stable to an estimated 1,229 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median household size in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully is 2.6 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Melbourne and reflects the area's household composition mix.
What types of households are most common?
Family households dominate at 74.9% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (22.8%), group households (2.2%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 924 family households, 36.0% are couples with children, 26.6% are couples without children at home, and 11.1% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Greater Melbourne, the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully 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 Upper Ferntree Gully have an average of 1.6 children, slightly above the Greater Melbourne average of 1.4. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
What are the marriage patterns in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
Marriage patterns reveal 43.8% of the adult population are currently married, while 36.9% have never married. This compares to 47.0% married and 38.0% never married across Greater Melbourne.
How significant are single-person households?
Single-person households represent 22.8% of all households in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully, similar to the regional average of 24.8%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Are shared living arrangements common?
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.2% of households, well below the Greater Melbourne average of 4.3%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
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EducationSchools & Education in Upper Ferntree Gully

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29.8% of adults in Upper Ferntree Gully hold a university qualification, including 18.8% with a bachelor degree and 6.9% with postgraduate qualifications. A further 24.9% hold a vocational qualification. 1 school serves the area, with 71 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 1,039 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

Formal qualifications in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully are lower than regional averages, with 29.8% of residents aged 15+ holding a tertiary degree, compared to 37.0% across Greater Melbourne. This differences point to potential for educational growth and training. Bachelor degrees are the most common credential at 18.8%, followed by postgraduate degrees at 6.9% and graduate diplomas at 4.1%. Vocational and trade training is highly represented, with 37.4% of residents aged 15+ holding practical qualifications, including advanced diplomas at 12.5% and certificates at 24.9%. Enrolment rates are high, with 26.7% of the local population actively participating in formal education.

This comprises 9.3% of residents attending primary school, 7.2% enrolled in secondary school, and 4.7% undertaking university or tertiary courses.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully have university qualifications?
29.8% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully have university qualifications, compared to 37.0% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully have no formal qualifications?
32.8% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.2% regionally.
How does the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully's education level compare to national averages?
The suburb of upper ferntree gully ranks in the 67th 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 Upper Ferntree Gully?
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully are: Certificate (24.9%), Bachelor Degree (18.8%), Advanced Diploma (12.5%).
What proportion of the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully's population is currently attending educational institutions?
26.7% of the population in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully is currently engaged in formal education, with 9.3% in primary school, 7.2% in secondary school, 4.7% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully is 1039, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
How many schools are located within the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
There are 1 schools within the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully, with a combined enrollment of approximately 71 students.
What types of schools are available in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
The suburb of upper ferntree gully includes 1 primary school.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Upper Ferntree Gully

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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Upper Ferntree Gully

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Public transport in Upper Ferntree Gully reaches 15 stops on 13 routes, timetabled for about 3,200 services a week. The typical home sits about 320 m from its nearest stop. Buses carry the largest share of public transport commuters. Households keep an average of 1.6 vehicles. Stop and service counts are built from operators' published GTFS timetables and refresh with each timetable release; vehicle ownership is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

Analysis of local transit systems shows 15 active public transport stops in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully, consisting of bus services. These locations are linked to 13 distinct transit routes, which deliver 3,247 passenger trips each week. Transport access is classified as good, with residents living an average of 319 meters from the closest stop. Because it is a residential area, the majority of workers travel outside the suburb, with private cars remaining the primary travel mode at 90% and train travel at 5%. Dwellings average 1.6 vehicles, which is above the metropolitan average.

A high 30.3% of workers worked from home, according to the 2021 Census, which may reflect pandemic-related conditions. Service frequency averages 463 daily journeys across all local routes, which translates to roughly 216 passenger trips per week at each individual stop.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Upper Ferntree Gully?
There are 15 public transport stops within the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully.
How frequent are the transport services in Upper Ferntree Gully?
the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully has 3,247 weekly trips across 13 routes, averaging 463 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Upper Ferntree Gully?
On average, residential properties are 319 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Upper Ferntree Gully

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66.7% of residents in Upper Ferntree Gully report no long-term health condition. 7.7% need daily assistance with core activities, and 53.8% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 5.4 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Local health measurements indicate below-average wellness outcomes in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully, according to AreaSearch's evaluation of mortality patterns and chronic illness rates. The incidence of common medical conditions is typical overall, but is elevated among senior age groups compared to national benchmarks. Private health insurance coverage is slightly higher than the typical SA2 area, representing approximately 54% of the population (about 1,831 residents), compared to 56.7% across the Greater Melbourne area. Mental health conditions and arthritis are the most prevalent health issues locally, affecting 10.1% and 8.9% of residents, respectively.

A total of 66.7% of the population reported having no chronic medical conditions, compared to 72.6% across Greater Melbourne. Health trends for working-age residents are generally typical. Residents aged 65 and over constitute 21.5% of the local population (731 residents), which is higher than the Greater Melbourne share of 15.0%. Health indicators for senior residents present some challenges, though their national rank is higher than that of the overall local population.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully have private health insurance?
Around 53.8% of people in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 56.7% in the broader region of Greater Melbourne.
What percentage of the population requires ongoing medical assistance in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
In the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully, 7.7% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 5.5% of people in Greater Melbourne require similar assistance.
How prevalent is asthma in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
7.4% of people in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.3% of the population across Greater Melbourne is affected by asthma.
What percentage of people have diabetes in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
Diabetes affects 3.3% of the the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully population, while in the surrounding region, 4.1% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
What is the percentage of people with heart disease in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
3.7% of people in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully have heart disease. Across the region of Greater Melbourne, 3.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully, 53.8% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Melbourne sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 56.7%.

Ancestry & LanguageCultural Diversity in Upper Ferntree Gully

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Upper Ferntree Gully is largely Australian-born, at 80.1% of residents, with 8.7% speaking a language other than English at home. The largest reported ancestries are English (28.8%) and Australian (27.0%). Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

The suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully shows lower cultural diversity compared to national averages, with 80.1% of residents born in Australia, 91.1% holding citizenship, and 91.3% speaking only English at home. Christianity is the primary religion, followed by 39.7% of the population. The most pronounced deviation from regional norms is in Buddhism, which accounts for 1.2% of residents locally compared to 4.2% across Greater Melbourne. Regarding parental birthplace, the three largest ancestry groups in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully are English at 28.8% of the population (exceeding the regional average of 20.1%), Australian at 27.0% (exceeding the regional average of 18.4%), and Irish at 9.0%.

There are also distinct concentrations of other ethnic backgrounds, with Dutch heritage overrepresented at 2.7% (compared to 1.2% regionally), Polish at 1.2% (compared to 0.8%), and Hungarian at 0.4% (compared to 0.3%).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
Upper Ferntree Gully was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 80.1% of its population born in Australia, 91.1% being citizens, and 91.3% speaking English only at home.
What is the most common religion in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
The main religion in Upper Ferntree Gully was found to be Christianity, which makes up 39.7% of people in Upper Ferntree Gully. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 1.2% of the population, compared to 4.2% across Greater Melbourne.
What are the top countries of origin in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Upper Ferntree Gully are English, comprising 28.8% of the population, which is substantially higher than the regional average of 20.1%, Australian, comprising 27.0% of the population, which is substantially higher than the regional average of 18.4%, and Irish, comprising 9.0% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Dutch is notably overrepresented at 2.7% of Upper Ferntree Gully (vs 1.2% regionally), Polish at 1.2% (vs 0.8%) and Hungarian at 0.4% (vs 0.3%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
19.9% of the the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully population was born overseas, compared to 37.3% regionally.
What percentage of the the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully population speaks a language other than English at home?
8.7% of the population in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 35.9% in the wider region.
How many people in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully identify as Australian Aboriginal?
0.3% of the the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 0.5% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
91.1% of the the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully population holds citizenship, compared to 81.1% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Upper Ferntree Gully

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The median resident of Upper Ferntree Gully is 41. 22.6% 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 Upper Ferntree Gully is 41 years, which is higher than the Greater Melbourne average of 37 and older than the national median of 38. Compared to metropolitan averages, the 55 - 64 age bracket is overrepresented at 13.8%, while the 25 - 34 bracket is underrepresented at 10.2%. Since the 2021 Census, the 75 to 84 age group increased from 5.5% to 7.4% of the population, and the 15 to 24 age bracket rose from 11.3% to 12.4%. Conversely, the 25 to 34 demographic decreased from 12.0% to 10.2%.

Future projections indicate the age structure will change by 2041, with the 85+ bracket expected to grow by 89%, adding 109 residents to reach 232. Aging trends will persist, with residents aged 65 and older accounting for 81% of the projected growth. Conversely, population drops are expected for the 0 to 4 and 15 to 24 age groups.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
According to the latest data, the median age in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully is 41 years.
How does the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully's median age compare to broader areas?
At 41 years, Upper Ferntree Gully is 4 years older than the Greater Melbourne average (37 years) and 3 years older than the national average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
The most over-represented age group in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully compared to the Greater Melbourne region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 13.8% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
The most under-represented age group in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully compared to the Greater Melbourne region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 10.2% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully show significant variance compared to the Greater Melbourne region. The most over-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (3.6% vs 2.0%) and 75-84 year-olds (7.4% vs 5.1%). The most under-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (10.2% vs 16.5%).
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
The percentage of children aged 0-14 years in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully is 15.9%.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully?
The percentage of people aged 65 and over in the suburb of Upper Ferntree Gully is 21.5%.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Upper Ferntree Gully

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 May 2026 3 months ago all 1 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 May 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 — 1 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for May 2026, not a 2021 count (3,417 at the 2021 Census → 3,403 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 (SAL22614). 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 Upper Ferntree Gully 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 Upper Ferntree Gully 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 Upper Ferntree Gully 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 (May 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.

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