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This analysis uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, which can materially differ from Statistical Areas (SA2) even when sharing the same name.
SAL boundaries are defined by Australia Post and the Australian Bureau of Statistics to represent commonly-known suburb names used in postal addresses.
Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census data collection and may combine multiple suburbs or use different geographic boundaries. For comprehensive analysis, consider reviewing both boundary types if available.
est. as @ -- *
2021 Census | -- people
Sales Activity
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Population
West Bathurst is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends
As of May 2026, the estimated population of the suburb of West Bathurst is around 3,679. This reflects a growth of 45 people since the 2021 Census, which reported a population of 3,634. AreaSearch validated new addresses and analysed ERP data from June 2025 to estimate this increase. The current density ratio is 1,273 persons per square kilometer, higher than the average seen across national locations assessed by AreaSearch. West Bathurst's growth rate of 1.2% since the Census places it within 1.0 percentage points of the SA4 region's growth rate of 2.2%. Natural growth contributed approximately 73.0% to overall population gains during recent periods.
AreaSearch uses ABS/Geoscience Australia projections for each SA2 area, released in 2024 with a base year of 2022, and NSW State Government's SA2 level projections for areas not covered by this data, released in 2022 with a base year of 2021. Future population trends forecast a significant increase in the top quartile of national non-metropolitan areas, with West Bathurst expected to expand by 953 persons to 2041, reflecting a gain of 25.8% over the 16 years.
Frequently Asked Questions - Population
Development
The level of residential development activity in West Bathurst is very low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally by AreaSearch
West Bathurst had an average of two dwelling approvals per year between 2016 and 2020, totaling 13 approvals. This low development activity reflects the rural nature of the area, with housing needs driving development rather than broad market demand. The small sample size can significantly influence annual growth statistics.
West Bathurst has less construction activity compared to Rest of NSW and is below national averages. Recent developments have been exclusively detached houses, maintaining the rural character and emphasizing space. With approximately 2460 people per dwelling approval, West Bathurst indicates a highly mature market. According to AreaSearch's latest quarterly estimate, West Bathurst is projected to grow by 950 residents by 2041.
If current development rates persist, housing supply may not keep pace with population growth, potentially increasing buyer competition and supporting stronger price growth.
Frequently Asked Questions - Development
Development applications around West Bathurst
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| Lodged | Address | Description | Type | Distance | Status |
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SOURCE: Planning portals and council registers, compiled by AreaSearch. Distance & bearing measured from the suburb midpoint.
Infrastructure
West Bathurst has very high levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 20% nationally
Changes to local infrastructure significantly impact an area's performance. AreaSearch has identified five projects that may affect this region. Notable initiatives include Bathurst Hospital Redevelopment, Windradyne 1100 Subdivision, Bathurst Integrated Medical Centre, and 56 Colville Street Residential Development. The following list details those most relevant.
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Denotes AI-based impression for illustrative purposes only, not to be taken as definitive under any circumstances. Please follow links and conduct other investigations from the project's source for actual imagery. Developers and project owners wishing us to use original imagery please Contact Us and we will do so.
Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure
Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) Transmission Project
Australia's first competitively sourced Renewable Energy Zone transmission project, delivering 90km of 500kV and 150km of 330kV transmission lines along with energy hubs at Merotherie and Elong Elong, and a new switching station at Barigan Creek. ACEREZ (ACCIONA, COBRA, Endeavour Energy) reached financial close in April 2025 and commenced construction in June 2025, with energisation targeted from 2028. The project will initially unlock 4.5 GW of new network capacity, rising to 6 GW by 2038, enough to power more than 2 million homes. Two workforce accommodation facilities (1,200-bed at Merotherie and 600-bed at Cassilis) support construction. The project is expected to attract up to $25 billion in private investment into the region and support around 1,850 direct construction jobs at peak.
Central-West Orana REZ Transmission Network
Major transmission infrastructure project involving the design, construction, and operation of new 500kV and 330kV transmission lines to connect the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) to the National Electricity Market. The project comprises 90km of 500kV overhead lines and 150km of 330kV generator connection lines stretching from Elong Elong in the west to Barigan Creek in the east, via an energy hub at Merotherie. Construction commenced in June 2025 following financial close in April 2025, with the first 70-metre transmission tower raised shortly after. The project will unlock at least 4.5GW of new network capacity by 2028, supporting over 5,000 peak construction jobs and attracting up to $25 billion in private investment into the region.
Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone
Australia's first Renewable Energy Zone (REZ), covering approximately 20,000 square kilometres centred around Dubbo and Dunedoo. The project involves constructing 90km of 500kV and 150km of 330kV transmission lines, new energy hubs at Merotherie and Elong Elong, and a switching station at Barigan Creek. It will unlock 4.5 GW of initial network capacity, growing to 6 GW by 2038, supporting solar, wind, and battery storage projects across 10 granted access rights. Construction commenced June 2025 with energisation targeted for 2028. The REZ is forecast to power 1.8 million homes and attract up to $25 billion in private investment, supporting approximately 1,850 direct construction jobs and 930 ongoing operational jobs from 2034.
Bathurst Hospital Redevelopment
The $200 million Bathurst Hospital Redevelopment is a major healthcare upgrade delivering a mix of new-build expansions and refurbishments. Key clinical enhancements include an expanded Emergency Department, enhanced Maternity services with a Special Care Nursery, and a new non-acute mental health inpatient unit known as Panorama Clinic. The project also provides improved inpatient and outpatient services, additional operating theatres, expanded cardiology, a new paediatrics zone, and a new main entry on Mitre Street. The redevelopment includes over 70 additional car parking spaces and is designed with a strong Connection to Country, featuring light-filled spaces and improved access to Victoria Park.
Bathurst Integrated Medical Centre
The Bathurst Integrated Medical Centre (BIMC) is a proposed six-level medical precinct on the former Clancy Ford site. It is designed to house a state-of-the-art private hospital with four operating theatres, radiology, pathology, womens health, and specialist practices. The project includes a multi-level carpark on the adjoining George Street site, increasing capacity from 330 to approximately 915 spaces with a link bridge connecting to the medical centre. The development is being processed as a State Significant Development to address a significant underprovision of medical services in the region.
Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy
Comprehensive NSW state planning reforms designed to increase housing density in well-located areas. The policy mandates mid-rise apartment buildings (3-6 storeys) and low-rise multi-dwelling housing (terraces, townhouses, and dual occupancies) within 800m of 171 high-frequency transport hubs and town centres. As of May 2026, the policy is fully operational following the phased rollout of dual occupancy provisions in July 2024 and mid-rise apartment provisions in early 2025. Recent updates include refined floor space ratios (FSR) and non-refusal standards to streamline local council assessments.
Robin Hill Convenience Centre
A 6,500-square-metre convenience centre including a 7-Eleven service station, Subway, Red Rooster, and McDonald's. The development transformed an existing car dealership site and was completed and opened in March 2024.
The Gateway Bathurst
The Gateway Bathurst is a 27-hectare landmark mixed-use commercial and business precinct located in Kelso, featuring 1 kilometre of frontage to the Great Western Highway. The development is being delivered in multiple stages, with Stage 1 focused on quick-service restaurants, a service station, and childcare. Subsequent stages include large-format retail, vehicle showrooms, and light industrial services. Operational tenants include Metro Petroleum, Imagine Childcare, Oporto, and KFC, with major retail additions such as Harvey Norman, Beacon Lighting, and Rebel Sport under development or recently opened.
Employment
AreaSearch assessment indicates West Bathurst faces employment challenges relative to the majority of Australian markets
West Bathurst has a skilled workforce with essential services sectors well represented. The unemployment rate is 5.5%, according to AreaSearch's aggregation of statistical area data. As of December 2025, there are 1,882 residents employed, with an unemployment rate at 1.5% above Regional NSW's rate of 3.9%.
Workforce participation in West Bathurst is higher than the regional average, at 65.7% compared to 60.5%. Census responses show that a low 10.1% of residents work from home, potentially influenced by Covid-19 lockdown impacts. Employment is concentrated in health care & social assistance, education & training, and retail trade. Notably, employment levels in education & training are at 1.3 times the regional average, while agriculture, forestry & fishing has limited presence with only 1.6% of employment compared to Regional NSW's 5.3%.
The area appears to offer limited local employment opportunities, indicated by the difference between the Census working population and resident population. Over the 12 months to December 2025, labour force levels decreased by 3.4%, with employment decreasing by 5.5%, resulting in a rise of 2.1 percentage points in unemployment rate compared to Regional NSW's changes of -1.2% for employment, -0.8% for labour force, and +0.4 percentage points for unemployment. Jobs and Skills Australia's national employment forecasts from May-25 suggest that while national employment is forecast to expand by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, growth rates vary significantly between industry sectors. Applying these projections to West Bathurst's employment mix indicates potential local employment increases of 6.3% over five years and 13.4% over ten years, though these are simple weighting extrapolations for illustrative purposes and do not account for localised population projections.
Frequently Asked Questions - Employment
Income
Income figures position the area below 75% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for financial year ended June 2023, West Bathurst had a median income among taxpayers of $48,443 and an average level standing at $58,424. This is lower than national averages of $52,390 (median) and $65,215 (average) for Regional NSW respectively. As per Wage Price Index growth of 10.32% from financial year ended June 2023 to March 2026, estimated incomes would be approximately $53,442 (median) and $64,453 (average). Census data from 2021 indicates household, family, and personal incomes in West Bathurst rank modestly, between the 20th and 34th percentiles. Income brackets show that 32.0% of individuals earn within the $1,500 - $2,999 range (1,177 individuals), similar to surrounding regions at 29.9%. Housing affordability pressures are severe in West Bathurst, with only 83.4% of income remaining after housing costs, ranking at the 20th percentile.
Frequently Asked Questions - Income
Housing
West Bathurst is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than the broader region
In West Bathurst, as per the latest Census, 94.8% of dwellings were houses with the remaining 5.2% being semi-detached homes, apartments, or other types. This compares to Regional NSW's 82.6% houses and 17.4% other dwellings. Home ownership in West Bathurst stood at 32.6%, with mortgaged properties at 28.7% and rented ones at 38.7%. The median monthly mortgage repayment was $1,443, lower than Regional NSW's average of $1,733. The median weekly rent in West Bathurst was $310, compared to Regional NSW's $330. Nationally, West Bathurst's mortgage repayments were significantly lower than the Australian average of $1,863, and rents were substantially below the national figure of $375.
Frequently Asked Questions - Housing
Household Composition
West Bathurst features high concentrations of lone person households and group households, with a lower-than-average median household size
Family households constitute 62.0% of all households, including 19.9% couples with children, 23.0% couples without children, and 17.6% single parent families. Non-family households account for the remaining 38.0%, with lone person households at 34.2% and group households comprising 4.1%. The median household size is 2.3 people, which is smaller than the Regional NSW average of 2.4.
Frequently Asked Questions - Households
Local Schools & Education
Educational outcomes in West Bathurst fall within the lower quartile nationally, indicating opportunities for improvement in qualification attainment
The area's university qualification rate is 20.0%, significantly lower than the NSW average of 32.2%. This presents both a challenge and an opportunity for targeted educational initiatives. Bachelor degrees are the most common at 13.7%, followed by postgraduate qualifications (4.2%) and graduate diplomas (2.1%). Trade and technical skills are prominent, with 39.6% of residents aged 15+ holding vocational credentials – advanced diplomas (9.9%) and certificates (29.7%).
Educational participation is high, with 31.7% of residents currently enrolled in formal education. This includes 10.5% in primary education, 8.7% in secondary education, and 4.2% pursuing tertiary education.
Frequently Asked Questions - Education
Schools Detail
Nearby Services & Amenities
Transport
Transport servicing is good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility
Public transport analysis indicates 77 active transport stops operating within West Bathurst. These stops serve a mix of bus routes, totaling 43 individual routes that collectively facilitate 676 weekly passenger trips. Transport accessibility is rated excellent, with residents typically located 119 meters from the nearest transport stop. As a primarily residential area, most residents commute outward. Car remains the dominant mode of transportation at 96%. Vehicle ownership averages 1.1 per dwelling, below the regional average.
According to the 2021 Census, a relatively low 10.1% of residents work from home, which may reflect COVID-19 conditions. Service frequency averages 96 trips per day across all routes, equating to approximately 8 weekly trips per individual stop.
Frequently Asked Questions - Transport
Transport Stops Detail
Health
Health performance in West Bathurst is well below average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts
West Bathurst faces significant health challenges as per AreaSearch's assessment. Mortality rates and chronic condition prevalence are substantial across both younger and older age groups.
Approximately half of the population (1,842 people) has private health cover, lower than the national average of 55.7%. The most prevalent conditions are mental health issues (11.2%) and asthma (11.1%). Sixty-point-nine percent claim to be free from medical ailments, compared to 63.3% in Regional NSW. Working-age residents have notably high chronic condition rates. Nineteen-point-five percent of residents are aged 65 and over (717 people), lower than the 23.4% in Regional NSW. Health outcomes among seniors present additional challenges, ranking higher than the general population nationally.
Frequently Asked Questions - Health
Cultural Diversity
West Bathurst is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics
West Bathurst had a cultural diversity level below average, with 89.0% citizens, 90.8% born in Australia, and 94.2% speaking English only at home. Christianity was the predominant religion, comprising 56.0%, compared to 55.9% regionally. The top three ancestry groups were English (30.9%), Australian (29.4%), and Irish (10.5%).
Notably, Australian Aboriginal representation was higher at 7.3% (vs regional 4.6%), Welsh at 0.6% (vs 0.5%), and Lebanese at 0.2% (vs 0.2%).
Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity
Age
West Bathurst's population is slightly younger than the national pattern
The median age in West Bathurst is 36 years, which is significantly lower than Regional NSW's average of 43 years and slightly younger than Australia's average of 38 years. The age group of 15-24 years has a strong representation at 15.0% compared to Regional NSW, while the 65-74 age group is less prevalent at 8.8%. According to post-2021 Census data, the 75-84 age group grew from 6.3% to 7.5%, and the 35-44 cohort increased from 11.4% to 12.5%. Conversely, the 45-54 cohort declined from 11.2% to 9.9%, and the 5-14 age group dropped from 12.9% to 11.7%. Population forecasts for West Bathurst indicate significant demographic changes by 2041. Notably, the 25-34 age group is expected to grow by 60%, reaching 857 people from 537. Conversely, the 65-74 and 45-54 cohorts are projected to experience population declines.