Suburb profile · Rest of WA
West Busselton has an estimated 9,735 residents, up 9.8% since the 2021 Census, with 46 projects tracked in the area around West Busselton.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The suburb of West Busselton sits 196 kilometres south-southwest of the Perth CBD. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, its population is estimated at around 9,735 as of Aug 2026, derived from aggregated SA2-level ERP counts released yearly, along with national address file data updated each quarter. This reflects an increase of 866 people (9.8%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded a population of 8,869 people. Residents tend to be comparatively older, with a median age of 46, and many households are made up of lone persons. Income levels sit in the lower quartile, and population growth has been moderate.
Market factors in the suburb include a notable retail trade employment base, elevated hospitality employment, above-average children per family, a pronounced mining employment presence, a substantial administrative employment focus, and a marked presence of residents aged 75 to 84.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of West Busselton sits 196 kilometres south-southwest of the Perth CBD. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, its population is estimated at around 9,735 as of Aug 2026, derived from aggregated SA2-level ERP counts released yearly, along with national address file data updated each quarter. This reflects an increase of 866 people (9.8%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded a population of 8,869 people. Residents tend to be comparatively older, with a median age of 46, and many households are made up of lone persons. Income levels sit in the lower quartile, and population growth has been moderate.
Market factors in the suburb include a notable retail trade employment base, elevated hospitality employment, above-average children per family, a pronounced mining employment presence, a substantial administrative employment focus, and a marked presence of residents aged 75 to 84.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 7,653 in 2006 and 9,727 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 9,735 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 55 to 64, 13.9%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $400 - 799, 27.5%.
West Busselton ranks in the 71st percentile nationally for amenities and the 65th for development activity.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
The median rent in West Busselton is $750 a week, up 7.1% over 12 months to Sep 2026 and 12% above Regional WA.
12% above Regional WA on median weekly rent
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $750 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +7.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Bunbury | $668 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Bunbury, over 12 months | +7.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional WA | $667 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent, Regional WA, over 12 months | +10.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, WA | $714 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, WA, over 12 months | +7.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 |
AreaSearch tracks 46 projects in and around West Busselton, 15 of them under construction.
A staged coastal protection program for the West Busselton coastline between King Street and Gale Street, designed to mitigate coastal erosion and protect public infrastructure including carparks, cycle paths, and open space. Works involve construction of low-profile Geotextile Sand Container (GSC) groynes and beach nourishment with imported sand.
The original whale-shaped Australian Underwater Discovery Centre proposal at Busselton Jetty has been paused due to cost escalation, with Busselton Jetty Inc continuing the on-jetty Marine Discovery Centre, jetty village facilities, exhibition space, public changerooms and cafe/terrace components.
Stockland's Halcyon Vasse is a land lease lifestyle community for over-55s comprising approximately 213 homes across a 14 hectare site. Following development approval in March 2025, the project has progressed into construction with delivery planned in multiple stages together with resort style community facilities.
The City of Busselton is rehabilitating and enhancing coastal dunes and refurbishing the coastal path along Geographe Bay Road to increase their resilience to coastal erosion and flooding. Coastal dunes along Geographe Bay provide both natural coastal defense against erosion and an environmental habitat.
A 48,500 square metre Large Format Retail centre on a 23-hectare site at Bovell, on the corner of the Busselton Bypass and Chapman Hill Road. The development comprises eight buildings ranging from 2,510 to 14,692 square metres for showrooms, trade supplies and food outlets, with around 1,230 parking bays.
A $19 million high-quality 30-dwelling community housing project offering 16 social and 14 affordable homes, including 22 one-bedroom and 8 two-bedroom apartments, built to Silver Liveable standards with a minimum 6-star NatHERS rating.
Local Planning Scheme No. 22 (LPS22) is a comprehensive update to the City of Busselton planning framework, replacing LPS21. The scheme manages sustainable growth, standardises zones by introducing Mixed Use areas, and strengthens controls for Special Character Areas. It is currently under review by the EPA and WAPC prior to public advertising.
Enhancement of the iconic 1.8km Busselton Jetty featuring essential accessibility upgrades, including a new lift system for the Underwater Observatory, alongside visitor facilities improvements and marine conservation initiatives to boost tourism.
Significant expansion of Busselton Health Campus to provide enhanced medical services, specialist facilities, and emergency care capabilities for the growing South West region population.
Major expansion of Busselton's premier shopping destination including new retail spaces, dining precincts, and community facilities to serve the growing regional population.
Broadwater Bayside Estate is a completed residential land release that consists of 22 new homes located in Broadwater, approximately 700m from Geographe Bay. It is situated close to Busselton and Vasse.
Comprehensive redevelopment of Busselton's foreshore area including new public spaces, recreational facilities, boardwalks, and commercial developments to enhance the coastal tourism experience.
Images marked AI impression are illustrative only and not photographs of the project; follow the project links for actual imagery. Original imagery? Contact us.
Estimated completion year of the 28 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 2, 2026 7, 2027 6, 2028 6, 2029 2, 2030 3, 2031 0, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 1. 3 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 1 substantial development application lodged in and around West Busselton over the period covered (about 0.2 years); 1 is recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Status of the 1 tracked applications: 0 approved, 1 under assessment, 0 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Key application 2 Grace Court, West Busselton $4.8m Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 1 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 0.2 years) | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 1 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 3.5 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 46th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 33 | ABS building approvals | 46th percentile nationally |
| Applications under assessment | 1 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 0.2 years) |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of West Busselton include: Halcyon Vasse (Construction); West Busselton Coastal Stabilisation (Construction); Coastal Dune Resilience Project (Completed); City of Busselton Local Planning Scheme No. 22 (Under Assessment); and Busselton Jetty Marine Discovery Centre (Planning). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of West Busselton spans multiple sectors including Environmental & Disaster Management, Residential Development, and Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, among others.
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On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, recent residential development output has been above average within West Busselton when compared nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of West Busselton area has seen 72 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of West Busselton's current population of 9,735 has been supported by 33 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of West Busselton has seen 3.5 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 5.3 approvals in Regional WA. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 268 people in the suburb of West Busselton, compared to one for every 164 in Regional WA.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of West Busselton's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 33, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of West Busselton has grown by approximately 610 people, while 165 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 3.7 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
West Busselton has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 9,735 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +9.8% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,192 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 55th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 8,869 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 866 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 8.17 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of West Busselton was estimated to be approximately 9,735 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 9,727 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of West Busselton has added approximately 866 people and shown a 9.76% increase from the 8,869 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of West Busselton is estimated at 1,192 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of West Busselton has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.1% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of West Busselton is driven by: Interstate migration (83.0%), Overseas migration (17.0%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 83.0% of overall population gains.
West Busselton hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 46 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 24.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 15.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 20.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 47.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age at the 2021 Census | 46 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 11.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 8.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 11.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 13.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 13.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 13.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 9.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of West Busselton at 46 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 46 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 46 years as at August 2026, West Busselton is 6 years older than the Regional WA 2021 Census average (40 years) and 8 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of West Busselton compared to the Regional WA region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 9.2% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of West Busselton compared to the Regional WA region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 8.9% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of West Busselton show significant variance compared to Regional WA. The most over-represented age group is 75-84 year-olds (9.2% vs 6.3%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 15.7% of the population in the suburb of West Busselton as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 24.9% of the population in the suburb of West Busselton as at August 2026.
Income figures position the area below 81% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $50,624 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 17th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $66,968 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,185 | 2021 Census, weekly | 12th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $660 | 2021 Census, weekly | 21st percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 15.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,580 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 35.3% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of West Busselton is approximately $54,188. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $50,624.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of West Busselton is approximately $71,683. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $66,968.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of West Busselton is approximately $54,188 compared to $67,299 in Regional WA. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $50,624 and $62,873 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of West Busselton is approximately $71,683 compared to $83,842 in Regional WA. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $66,968 and $78,328 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of West Busselton's households (~27.5% / 1,002 households) is the $400 - 799 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of West Busselton is the $400 - 799 group, representing about 27.5% of households. In comparison, Regional WA's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 31.1% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of West Busselton is $1,185/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of West Busselton is $1,580/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of West Busselton is $660/wk.
The suburb of West Busselton's income level is lower than average on a national basis according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The suburb of West Busselton's median income among taxpayers is $50,624 and the average income stands at $66,968, which compares to figures for Regional WA's of $62,873 and $78,328 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.04% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $54,188 (median) and $71,683 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of West Busselton is $4,183 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of West Busselton's disposable income is $4,183 compared to $6,025 for Regional WA, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The employment landscape in West Busselton shows performance that lags behind national averages across key labour market indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 3.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 61.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 4,853 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 7,449 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 5,011 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of West Busselton has approximately 4,853 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.2%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of West Busselton stands at 3.2%, which is broadly in line with Regional WA's rate of 3.5%. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of West Busselton is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (15.5% of employment), retail trade (13.2%), and accommodation & food (11.4%). Other significant employers include construction and education & training.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of West Busselton has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Regional WA saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of West Busselton is 61.2%, 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 trailing the Regional WA average of 65.4%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Regional WA.
The suburb of West Busselton shows notable specialisation in retail trade, which employs 13.2% of the local workforce compared to 8.6% across Regional WA. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The suburb of West Busselton'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 saw a 3.7% decline, ranking 31st out of 37 regions nationally.
Education in West Busselton: university qualifications 16.4%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 989.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 11.7% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 2.3% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 16.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 30.4% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.0% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 42.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 26.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 2.0% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 8.9% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 9.8% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
16.4% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of West Busselton have university qualifications, compared to 17.6% in Regional WA.
42.3% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of West Busselton have no formal qualifications, compared to 40.5% in Regional WA.
The suburb of West Busselton ranks in the 37th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of West Busselton are: Certificate (30.4%), Bachelor Degree (11.7%), Advanced Diploma (11.0%).
26.0% of the population in the suburb of West Busselton is currently engaged in formal education, including 8.9% in primary school, 9.8% in secondary school, 2.0% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of West Busselton is 989, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 6 schools within the suburb of West Busselton, with a combined enrollment of approximately 3,362 students.
The suburb of West Busselton includes 2 primary schools, 1 secondary school, 3 combined schools.
West Busselton features high concentrations of lone person households and couples without children but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional WA.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.3 people | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 32.7% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 22.8% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 30.3% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 10.6% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.0% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 3,643 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 3,999 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 64.4% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.9 per family | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of West Busselton had 3,643 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 9.8% to an estimated 3,999 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of West Busselton is 2.3 people. This compares to 2.5 in Regional WA and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 64.4% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (32.7%), group households (3.0%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,346 family households, couples with children account for 22.8% of all households, couples without children at home 30.3%, and single parent families 10.6%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional WA, the suburb of West Busselton shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 32.7% (versus 27.4% in Regional WA). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 64.4% compared to 69.8% in Regional WA. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the suburb of West Busselton have an average of 1.9 children, matching the Regional WA average of 1.9. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 46.7% of the adult population are currently married, while 30.6% have never married. This compares to 46.4% married and 35.8% never married across Regional WA.
Single-person households represent 32.7% of all households in the suburb of West Busselton, higher than the average for Regional WA of 27.4%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 3.0% of households, slightly above the Regional WA average of 2.8%.
West Busselton ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 18.3% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 5.3% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 94.7% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 89.3% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 81.7% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.9% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
West Busselton was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 81.7% of its population born in Australia, 89.3% being citizens, and 94.7% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in West Busselton, at 45.9% of people, although more residents (51.4%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 1.1% of the population, compared to 1.0% across Regional WA.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in West Busselton are English, comprising 36.6% of the population, which is substantially higher than Regional WA's 31.3%, Australian, comprising 28.9% of the population, and Irish, comprising 7.8% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Welsh is notably overrepresented at 0.8% of West Busselton (vs 0.6% across Regional WA), South African at 0.6% (vs 0.6%) and New Zealand at 0.8% (vs 0.9%).
18.3% of the suburb of West Busselton population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Regional WA.
5.3% of the population in the suburb of West Busselton speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 9.7% in Regional WA.
1.9% of the suburb of West Busselton population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 6.1% in Regional WA.
89.3% of the suburb of West Busselton population holds citizenship, compared to 82.8% in Regional WA.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
West Busselton is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 29.9% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 38.6% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 85.7% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,625 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 36th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 31.5% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 13.9% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $340 | 2021 Census, weekly | 38th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 28.7% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 31.6% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 93rd percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of West Busselton, 38.6% of homes are owned outright, 31.5% are owned with a mortgage, and 29.9% are rented.
According to the latest data, 85.7% of dwellings in the suburb of West Busselton are houses.
In the suburb of West Busselton, 0.1% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 13.9% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of West Busselton stands at 38.6%, compared to 34.1% in Regional WA.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of West Busselton is $1,625, compared to $1,560 in Regional WA.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of West Busselton is $952, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of West Busselton, households with mortgages typically spend 31.6% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 28.7% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of West Busselton is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of West Busselton shows mortgage holders spending 31.6% of income on repayments (vs 22.5% in Regional WA), while renters spend 28.7% of income on rent (vs 16.6% in Regional WA).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of West Busselton consists of 85.7% detached houses, 13.9% semi-detached dwellings, 0.1% apartments, and 0.3% other dwelling types.
Housing in West Busselton consumes approximately 18.6% of median household income ($5,131 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in West Busselton show attached dwellings contributing 6% of approvals compared to 14% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 94% of applications versus 86% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Density increases remain below national trends.
Health outcomes in West Busselton are marginally below the national average with common health conditions slightly more prevalent than average across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 51.9% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 39th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 63.5% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 6.2% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 73.7% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.8% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
Around 51.9% of people in the suburb of West Busselton are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 56.4% in Regional WA.
In the suburb of West Busselton, 6.2% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Regional WA require similar assistance.
7.3% of people in the suburb of West Busselton are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.2% of the population across Regional WA is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.5% of the suburb of West Busselton population, while in Regional WA, 4.6% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.6% of people in the suburb of West Busselton have heart disease. Across Regional WA,3.6% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of West Busselton, 51.9% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional WA sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 56.4%.
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 36 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 36th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 62 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 51st percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 159 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 13th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 154 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 2 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.3 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 6.0% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 62 public transport stops within the suburb of West Busselton.
The suburb of West Busselton has 159 weekly trips across 2 routes, averaging 22 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 263 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 612 m away and the nearest school 737 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 62 stops nearby, 159 weekly trips, access rating 36 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 71 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 71st percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 612 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 737 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 842 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 884 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 2.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 2.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 2.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 3 long day care centres with 214 places in West Busselton, about 2.2 children aged 0-4 per place.
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on West Busselton is built to order and emailed to you.
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The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, recent residential development output has been above average within West Busselton when compared nationally.
West Busselton has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 47% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in West Busselton is $750 a week, +7.1% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
West Busselton has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
West Busselton hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
Income figures position the area below 81% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
The employment landscape in West Busselton shows performance that lags behind national averages across key labour market indicators.
Education in West Busselton: university qualifications 16.4%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 989.
West Busselton features high concentrations of lone person households and couples without children but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional WA.
West Busselton ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
West Busselton is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health outcomes in West Busselton are marginally below the national average with common health conditions slightly more prevalent than average across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
West Busselton has an estimated 9,735 residents, up 9.8% since the 2021 Census, with 46 projects tracked in the area around West Busselton.
Latest estimate as at Aug 2026; other figures from the 2021 Census, ATO FY-24 and AreaSearch estimates where labelled. Updated 14 Oct 2026.
Sources: ABS Census 2021, ABS estimated resident population, ATO taxation statistics, state rental bonds and property sales records where published, and AreaSearch analysis for West Busselton.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Aug 2026. Housing, households and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 15 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
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 a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (SAL51569). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
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 and statistical reporting. Even when sharing the same name, SAL and SA2 boundaries often cover different geographic areas with different populations.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, 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. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Aug 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for West Busselton from the 2021 Census, ATO taxpayer data and AreaSearch estimates and analysis. Each topic has its own table of key figures beside the section it belongs to, and each row names its source and date. The percentile compares West Busselton with every neighbourhood-sized area across Australia (ABS SA2 areas): a higher percentile means more of that measure than most, not necessarily better.
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
