Area profile · Greater Melbourne
Docklands has an estimated 20,055 residents, up 29.4% since the 2021 Census, with 24 projects tracked in Docklands.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Situated 2.3 kilometres west-southwest from Melbourne CBD, the Docklands Statistical Area (Lv2) represents an exceptionally active, dense waterfront enclave in VIC, Australia. Characterised by modern high-rise apartments, scenic marinas, open parks, promenades, public art, and vibrant dining and entertainment venues, the precinct functions as a premier destination for both residents and visitors. Demographic trends are heavily propelled by a highly educated, overseas-born population of young professionals, largely residing in lone person households and group households. AreaSearch's evaluation indicates that the population of Docklands stands at around 20,055 as of Aug 2026, marking an increase of 4,562 people (29.4%) since the 2021 Census count of 15,493. This trajectory is derived from the ABS Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of 19,139 as of June 2025 alongside 3,543 Validated New Addresses confirmed since the Census benchmark.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 154 in 2001 and 19,139 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 20,055 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 25 to 34, 36.2%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 35.3%.
Docklands ranks in the 99th percentile nationally for transport & access and the 99th for health.
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 Docklands is $689 a week, up 3.9% over 12 months to Sep 2025 and 17% above Greater Melbourne.
17% above Greater Melbourne on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $626 in 2016, $830 in 2025; Units (dashed orange line): $520 in 2016, $706 in 2025. The latest is to Sep 2025.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $689 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +3.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, houses | $830 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +2.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, units | $706 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +3.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Melbourne City | $660 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Melbourne City, over 12 months | +3.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Melbourne - Inner | $628 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Melbourne - Inner, over 12 months | +4.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Greater Melbourne | $587 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Greater Melbourne, over 12 months | +4.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, VIC | $560 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, VIC, over 12 months | +4.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 14 tracked applications: 12 approved, 0 under assessment, 2 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 24 projects in Docklands (10 under construction) and 214 more in the surrounding area.
Elysium Fields is a $1.75 billion wellness-focused mixed-use precinct being developed by GURNER Group and City Harbour across a 2.7-hectare…
A major urban renewal precinct in Docklands delivering a mix of residential, commercial, and retail spaces.
The final three towers of the Collins Wharf precinct are under construction, comprising 915 luxury waterfront apartments across three…
The revitalisation of the heritage-listed Central Pier following its complete removal in October 2025 due to structural failure.
28-storey residential tower featuring 303 premium apartments and townhomes with uninterrupted views of Victoria Harbour and the Yarra River.
45-storey, all-electric luxury residential tower by Mirvac at the Yarra's Edge precinct in Melbourne's Docklands.
Final major development parcel within MAB Corporation's NewQuay waterfront precinct at Docklands.
The Greenline Project is a transformational 4km urban renewal initiative creating a continuous promenade along the north bank of the Yarra…
Joint venture between Development Victoria and the AFL to transform AFL House and the former Channel 7 broadcast centre into a major…
A purpose-built student accommodation project with dual permit approval.
The Canopy on Normanby is a 20-storey sustainable residential tower located in South Melbourne's Fishermans Bend precinct.
The $1.7 billion Melbourne Arts Precinct Transformation (MAPT) is a landmark cultural redevelopment overseen by MAP Co and delivered by…
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 103 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 6, 2026 22, 2027 26, 2028 23, 2029 10, 2030 8, 2031 3, 2032 2, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 1, 2036 2. 65 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 14 substantial development applications lodged in and around Docklands over the past 5 years, 1 in the last 12 months. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2022 (part year) 3, 2023 1, 2024 5, 2025 5, 2026 (to Oct) 0.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 14 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 1 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 61.9 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 98th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 1,082 | ABS building approvals | 99th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 12 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Docklands SA2 include: Elysium Fields (Construction); Victoria Harbour Precinct (Construction); Collins Wharf - Final Three Towers (Construction); Collins Wharf - Ancora (Construction); and Trielle at Yarra's Edge (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Docklands SA2 spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Residential Development, and Precincts & Urban Renewal, among others.
The long-run outlook for infrastructure is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Docklands among the top 14% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Docklands SA2 area has seen 3,340 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Docklands SA2's current population of 20,055 has been supported by 1,082 approvals on average over recent years.
The Docklands SA2 has seen 61.9 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 8.7 approvals in Greater Melbourne. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 12 people in the Docklands SA2, compared to one for every 121 in Greater Melbourne.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Docklands SA2's approval levels have been consistent with the yearly average of 1,082, showing stable development patterns.
Over the past five years, the population in the Docklands SA2 has grown by approximately 2,468 people, while 5,410 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 0.5 people added for each new dwelling approval. This low ratio indicates housing supply is outpacing population growth, potentially creating market oversupply.
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.
Docklands lies within the top 3% of areas nationally in terms of population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of short and medium-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 20,055 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +29.4% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 8,206 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 98th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +2.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +6.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 15,493 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 4,562 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +5.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +3.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 2.44 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Docklands SA2 was estimated to be approximately 20,055 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 19,139 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The docklands sa2 has added approximately 4,562 people and shown a 29.45% increase from the 15,493 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Docklands SA2 is estimated at 8,219 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Docklands SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 6.2% per annum.
Population growth in the Docklands SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (91.3%), Natural increase (8.7%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 91.3% of overall population gains.
Docklands hosts a very young demographic, ranking in the bottom 8% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 33 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 8th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 7.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 7.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 48.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 73.0% | 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 | 32 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 3.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 3.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 12.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 36.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 20.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 9.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 7.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 4.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 2.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 0.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Docklands SA2 at 33 years as at August 2026. That is up from the 2021 Census figure of 32 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 33 years as at August 2026, Docklands is 4 years younger than the Greater Melbourne 2021 Census average (37 years) and 5 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Docklands SA2 compared to the Greater Melbourne region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 36.2% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Docklands SA2 compared to the Greater Melbourne region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 3.8% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Docklands SA2 show significant variance compared to Greater Melbourne. The most over-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (36.2% vs 16.4%). The most under-represented age groups are 5-14 year-olds (3.8% vs 11.8%) and 85+ year-olds (0.7% vs 2.1%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 7.2% of the population in the Docklands SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 7.6% of the population in the Docklands SA2 as at August 2026.
Income analysis reveals strong economic positioning, with the area outperforming 64% of locations assessed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $61,642 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 61st percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $79,356 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,956 | 2021 Census, weekly | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $1,182 | 2021 Census, weekly | 90th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 27.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,462 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 17.3% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Docklands SA2 is approximately $65,710. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $61,642.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Docklands SA2 is approximately $84,593. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $79,356.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Docklands SA2 is approximately $65,710 compared to $63,783 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $61,642 and $59,834 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Docklands SA2 is approximately $84,593 compared to $83,612 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $79,356 and $78,435 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Docklands SA2's households (~35.3% / 2,664 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Docklands SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 35.3% of households. In comparison, Greater Melbourne's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 32.8% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Docklands SA2 is $1,956/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Docklands SA2 is $2,462/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Docklands SA2 is $1,182/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the Docklands SA2 is well above average nationally, with the median assessed at $61,642 while the average income stands at $79,356. This contrasts to Greater Melbourne's figures of a median income of $59,834 and an average income of $78,435. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.6% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $65,710 (median) and $84,593 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Docklands SA2 is $6,879 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The docklands sa2's disposable income is $6,879 compared to $6,948 for Greater Melbourne, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Docklands rank among the top 9% of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.4% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 79.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 13,927 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 68,303 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 14,267 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Docklands SA2 has approximately 13,927 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.4%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. The area ranks in the top 25% nationally for employment performance, indicating a robust job market.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Docklands SA2 stands at 2.4%, which is 2.5 percentage points below Greater Melbourne's rate of 4.9%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Docklands SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are professional & technical (23.4% of employment), finance & insurance (11.3%), and accommodation & food (9.2%). Other significant employers include health care & social assistance and retail trade.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Docklands SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Greater Melbourne saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the Docklands SA2 is 79.5%, 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 leading the Greater Melbourne average of 70.1%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
The docklands sa2 shows notable specialisation in professional & technical, which employs 23.4% of the local workforce compared to 10.1% across Greater Melbourne. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 2.3, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The docklands sa2's employment market shows strong performance nationally, ranking in the top 25% of areas assessed by AreaSearch. This indicates robust employment conditions and economic vitality compared to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 2.6% decline, ranking 28th out of 37 regions nationally.
Educational achievement in Docklands places it within the top 10% nationally, reflecting strong academic performance and high qualification levels across the community.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 39.8% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 21.9% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 64.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 8.0% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 3.2% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.0% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 17.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 30.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 15.1% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 3.1% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 1.6% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
64.9% of people aged 15 and over in the Docklands SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 37.0% in Greater Melbourne.
17.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Docklands SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.2% in Greater Melbourne.
The docklands sa2 ranks in the 90th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Docklands SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (39.8%), Postgraduate (21.9%), Advanced Diploma (10.0%).
30.0% of the population in the Docklands SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 3.1% in primary school, 1.6% in secondary school, 15.1% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Docklands SA2 is 1126, indicating above-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 2 schools within the Docklands SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 543 students.
The docklands sa2 includes 2 primary schools.
Docklands features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few single parent families, with a smaller average household size than Greater Melbourne.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 1.8 people | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 39.4% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 12.4% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 33.4% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 3.8% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 9.1% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 7,546 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 9,768 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 51.4% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 0.6 per family | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Docklands SA2 had 7,546 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 29.4% to an estimated 9,768 households today.
The average household size in the Docklands SA2 is 1.8 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Melbourne and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 51.4% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (39.4%), group households (9.1%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 3,879 family households, couples with children account for 12.4% of all households, couples without children at home 33.4%, and single parent families 3.8%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Melbourne, the Docklands SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 39.4% (versus 24.8% in Greater Melbourne). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 51.4% compared to 70.9% in Greater Melbourne. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Marriage patterns reveal 37.5% of the adult population are currently married, while 51.5% have never married. This compares to 47.0% married and 38.0% never married across Greater Melbourne.
Single-person households represent 39.4% of all households in the Docklands SA2, higher than the average for Greater Melbourne of 24.8%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 9.1% of households, above the Greater Melbourne average of 4.3%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Docklands is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 67.5% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 58.7% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 41.3% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 45.1% | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 32.5% | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.3% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
Docklands is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country, with 58.7% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 67.5% born overseas.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Docklands, at 27.4% of people, although more residents (46.5%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Hinduism, which comprises 14.7% of the population, substantially higher than the Greater Melbourne average of 4.4%.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Docklands are Chinese, comprising 19.8% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Melbourne's 6.5%, Other, comprising 18.9% of the population, and English, comprising 13.8% of the population, which is notably lower than Greater Melbourne's 20.1%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Indian is notably overrepresented at 11.7% of Docklands (vs 4.2% across Greater Melbourne), Korean at 1.9% (vs 0.3%) and Russian at 0.7% (vs 0.4%).
67.5% of the Docklands SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 37.3% across Greater Melbourne.
58.7% of the population in the Docklands SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 35.9% in Greater Melbourne.
0.3% of the Docklands SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 0.5% in Greater Melbourne.
45.1% of the Docklands SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 81.1% in Greater Melbourne.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Docklands features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Melbourne.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 68.8% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 12.6% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Apartments | 98.0% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,000 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 64th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 18.6% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 1.4% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $411 | 2021 Census, weekly | 69th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 21.0% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 23.6% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 45th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 1.1 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
In the Docklands SA2, 12.6% of homes are owned outright, 18.6% are owned with a mortgage, and 68.8% are rented.
According to the latest data, 0.5% of dwellings in the Docklands SA2 are houses.
In the Docklands SA2, 98.0% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 1.4% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Docklands SA2 stands at 12.6%, compared to 30.7% in Greater Melbourne.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Docklands SA2 is $2,000, compared to $2,000 in Greater Melbourne.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Docklands SA2 is $1,597, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Docklands SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 23.6% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 21.0% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Docklands SA2 is 1.1, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Docklands SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 23.6% of income on repayments (vs 24.3% in Greater Melbourne), while renters spend 21.0% of income on rent (vs 20.5% in Greater Melbourne).
The dwelling mix in the Docklands SA2 consists of 0.5% detached houses, 1.4% semi-detached dwellings, 98.0% apartments, and 0.1% other dwelling types.
Housing in Docklands consumes approximately 18.8% of median household income ($8,469 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Docklands show attached dwellings contributing 100% of approvals compared to 100% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 0% of applications versus 0% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Docklands is experiencing exceptional growth in housing density, ranking in the top 10% nationally.
Docklands's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 56.5% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 66th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 84.4% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 1.4% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 86.4% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.3% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
Around 56.5% of people in the Docklands SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 56.5% in Greater Melbourne.
In the Docklands SA2, 1.4% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.5% of people in Greater Melbourne require similar assistance.
4.6% of people in the Docklands SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.3% of the population across Greater Melbourne is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 2.0% of the Docklands SA2 population, while in Greater Melbourne, 4.1% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
1.6% of people in the Docklands SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Melbourne,3.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Docklands SA2, 56.5% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Melbourne sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 56.5%.
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 99 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 99th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 60 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 49th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 22,134 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 99th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 319 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 63 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 0.3 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 50.3% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 60 public transport stops within the Docklands SA2.
The Docklands SA2 has 22,134 weekly trips across 63 routes, averaging 3,162 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 119 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest supermarket is 250 m away and the nearest child care centre 291 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 60 stops nearby, 22,134 weekly trips, access rating 99 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 95 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 95th percentile nationally |
| Nearest supermarket | 250 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 285 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 291 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 334 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest fitness centre | 369 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 511 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 521 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 570 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 854 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 3.8 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 416 places in Docklands, about 1.6 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 Docklands is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
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Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Docklands.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Docklands among the top 14% of areas assessed nationwide.
Docklands has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 40th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Docklands is $689 a week, +3.9% over 12 months to Sep 2025.
Docklands lies within the top 3% of areas nationally in terms of population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of short and medium-term trends.
Docklands hosts a very young demographic, ranking in the bottom 8% of areas nationwide.
Income analysis reveals strong economic positioning, with the area outperforming 64% of locations assessed nationally by AreaSearch.
Employment conditions in Docklands rank among the top 9% of areas assessed nationally.
Educational achievement in Docklands places it within the top 10% nationally, reflecting strong academic performance and high qualification levels across the community.
Docklands features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few single parent families, with a smaller average household size than Greater Melbourne.
Docklands is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Docklands features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Melbourne.
Docklands's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
Transport servicing is high 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.
Docklands has an estimated 20,055 residents, up 29.4% since the 2021 Census, with 24 projects tracked in Docklands.
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 Docklands.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2025, 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 14 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may 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 (206041118). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
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 Docklands 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 Docklands 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.
