Highton

SA2

Rest of Vic. / Geelong

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Data Sources ABSValuer GeneralRental BoardACARA Newest Aug 2026 · Refreshed ABS QuickStats 203021042 How we calculate this
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Statistical Area (SA2) Boundary Analysis

This analysis uses ABS Statistical Areas Level 2 (SA2) boundaries, which can materially differ from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) even when sharing similar names.

SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (e.g., census and ERP).

Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb/locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For comprehensive analysis, consider reviewing both boundary types if available.

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Resi Approvals
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Sales ActivityProperty Sales Trends in Highton

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DemographicsPopulation Growth in Highton

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Highton has an estimated 25,812 residents, up from 24,034 at the 2021 Census — a change of 1,778 people, or 7.4%. Growth has averaged 1.6% a year over five years. 257 new addresses have been validated here since Census night. Overseas migration accounts for 68.8% of that increase. That puts 636 residents on each square kilometre. Population is estimated from ABS Estimated Resident Population releases and GNAF address data, re-based from the 2021 Census and updated annually.

Detail

According to findings by AreaSearch, the resident count of Highton stands at approximately 25,812 as of May 2026. This represents a growth of 1,778 people (7.4%) relative to the 24,034 inhabitants recorded in the 2021 Census. The updated figure is calculated using the June 2025 ABS resident estimation of 25,794 alongside 257 validated new addresses registered after the Census. This population level yields a density of 635 persons per square kilometer, indicating low-density living and capacity for future expansion. The local growth rate of 7.4% since the 2021 census outpaced the Rest of Vic.

average of 4.3%, indicating Highton is leading regional population expansion. This growth was mostly fueled by net overseas migration, which accounted for roughly 68.8% of the population increase, though positive contributions were also seen from natural increase and interstate arrivals. AreaSearch implements the 2024 population projections from the ABS/Geoscience Australia, which use 2022 as their starting point. Where this dataset does not cover specific SA2 boundaries, projections are derived from the 2023 VIC State Government Regional/LGA datasets, scaled down to SA2 zones using a weighted aggregation method based on local growth patterns. Age structure projections for the 2032 to 2041 period are also distributed using these weights. Looking ahead, Highton is projected to experience growth placing it in the top tier of non-metropolitan locations, with expectations to add 7,385 persons to 2041 when measured from the most recent annual ERP statistics, representing a total increase of 28.5% over the 16 years.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the Highton SA2?
Total population for the Highton SA2 was estimated to be approximately 25,812 as at May 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 25,794 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the Highton SA2 changed since 2021?
The highton sa2 has added approximately 1,778 people and shown a 7.40% increase from the 24,034 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the Highton SA2?
The population density in the Highton SA2 is estimated at 635 persons per square kilometer based on the latest population estimate.
How much has the population grown over the past 10 years in the Highton SA2?
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Highton SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.4% per annum.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the Highton SA2?
Population growth in the Highton SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (68.8%), Natural increase (27.0%), Interstate migration (4.2%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 68.8% of overall population gains.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Highton

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714 new dwellings have been approved in Highton over the past five years, an average of 142 a year. That places the area in the 72nd percentile for residential development activity nationally, about 6 approvals per 1,000 residents a year. Of the 88 dwellings approved in the latest reporting year, 76% were detached houses and the rest townhouses or apartments. Approvals are currently running at an annualised 90, well below that longer-run average. Figures come from ABS building approvals aggregated to this SA2 boundary and are updated monthly as the ABS releases them.

Detail

Residential approvals in Highton average approximately 142 per year, totaling 714 dwellings sanctioned over the 5 financial years spanning FY-21 to FY-25, with an additional 83 building permits issued in FY-26 so far. High demand, which helps sustain local property values, is highlighted by an average occupancy of 2.7 new residents per year per dwelling over the 5 financial years from FY-21 to FY-25. The average construction cost for these new residences is $386,000, representing a higher standard of building compared to regional averages. Furthermore, the local commercial sector shows significant momentum with $120.4 million in commercial development approvals recorded during the current financial year.

Per capita construction activity in Highton is roughly 56% of the level seen in the Rest of Vic., placing the suburb in the 40th percentile of all examined locations in the country, which restricts supply for purchasers and reinforces demand for established housing. The composition of new residential projects is 76.0% standalone homes and 24.0% attached dwellings, which maintains low density and appeals to buyers looking for larger blocks. The low-key nature of local development is illustrated by a ratio of 426 people in the area for every single dwelling approval. Based on the latest AreaSearch quarterly estimate, population projections indicate Highton will add 7,367 residents by 2041. Should building rates remain at their current levels, the volume of new housing may fall short of population demand, potentially intensifying buyer competition and driving up property prices.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the Highton SA2 recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the Highton SA2 area has seen 121 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Highton SA2's current population of 25,812 has been supported by 142 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the Highton SA2's development activity compare to the broader region?
The Highton SA2 has seen 0.59 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.82 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 426 people in the Highton SA2, compared to one for every 156 in the broader region.
Is the Highton SA2 keeping up with housing demand?
With the population expected to increase by 7,367 people by 2041, around 3,684 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels may be insufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling. This indicates potential housing shortages if current approval trends continue.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the Highton SA2?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Highton SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 142, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
How many dwellings will be needed to accommodate future population growth in the Highton SA2?
The population in the Highton SA2 is expected to grow by 7,367 people by 2041, necessitating approximately 3,684 new dwellings. This calculation is based on the current census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling in the area.
How does recent development compare to population growth in the Highton SA2?
Over the past five years, the population in the Highton SA2 has grown by approximately 10,325 people, while 714 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 14.5 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
Are there opportunities for residential developers in the Highton SA2?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 142 approvals per year and a population of 25,812, there appears to be a supply shortfall relative to projected demand, presenting strong opportunities for residential developers. With the population expected to increase by 7,367 people by 2041, around 3,684 new dwellings will be necessary. Current approval trends may be insufficient to meet forecast demand, indicating strong development opportunities.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Highton

Development applications around Highton

Development approvals is a new addition to AreaSearch. We’re actively expanding council coverage and refining the dataset — details and statuses for some councils may be partial. Check back regularly for the latest pipeline.
Application search is not available in Victoria. AreaSearch holds 58 applications for Highton, but they are a record of past activity rather than a current register. Victoria has no state-wide planning portal and its council coverage is uneven, so we have switched the search off here rather than return partial answers. We are currently investigating a solution. No credits are charged for Victorian applications, and building approvals from the ABS and the major projects we track are unaffected.

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

Project PipelineInfrastructure & Major Projects in Highton

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AreaSearch tracks 12 current infrastructure and development projects inside Highton, worth an estimated $1.28 billion. A further 131 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $32.1 billion. 36 are already under construction and 46 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans residential development, communities, precincts & urban renewal and communities. Records are compiled from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, council planning portals and public announcements, reviewed and updated daily, then ranked by proximity, construction stage, completion horizon and project scale.

Detail

Local infrastructure projects, major developments, and urban planning initiatives play a major role in regional performance. AreaSearch has identified 38 projects likely to influence the local area. Key projects include the Highton Urban Design Framework, the 22-24 Barrabool Road Development, Wandana Estate, and Morven Townhomes, with details provided on the most significant works.

Professional plan users can use the search below to filter and access additional projects.

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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Highton SA2?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Highton SA2 include: Highton Urban Design Framework (Approved); 22-24 Barrabool Road Development (Planning); Wandana Estate (Construction); Morven Townhomes (Construction); and 34 Barrabool Road Apartments (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the Highton SA2?
Infrastructure development impacting the Highton SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Sports & Recreation, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the Highton SA2?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates substantial capital deployment exceeding $2.1 billion in projects that will impact the extended area, with a notable concentration of investment within the immediate the Highton SA2 vicinity.
How does the Highton SA2's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
With an infrastructure score in the top 40%, the Highton SA2 demonstrates above-average development activity compared to national benchmarks.
Deakin University Waurn Ponds Campus Expansion
Category: Education & Training
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Ongoing multi-stage transformation of Deakin University's Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus under the Climate Ready Campus masterplan. Key completed components include the Geelong Future Economy Precinct (GFEP) - Victoria's epicentre of advanced manufacturing, energy and sustainability research - the 7.5MW renewable energy microgrid (operational since 2021), 320-bed student accommodation (completed April 2021), and the REACH health hub. Active works include road network upgrades, integrated water management and wetland conversion, and Building KA infill (completed 2025). The GFEP hosts 18 joint ventures with a market value of approximately $1 billion and the REACH Trailblazer program ($380 million total value) focused on clean energy and recycling commercialisation.

Education & Training

Epworth Geelong Innovation and Education Precinct
Category: Health
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2035
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A 600 million dollar staged health, innovation and education precinct on around 4.2 hectares of land next to the existing Epworth Geelong private hospital in Waurn Ponds. The masterplan envisages roughly 100,000 square metres of gross floor area to be delivered over 10-plus years, comprising expanded private hospital capacity, specialist medical suites, allied health and rehabilitation, medical research, health education in collaboration with Deakin University, and future stages potentially including aged care and retirement living, med-tech, innovation space and childcare.The project sits within the broader Geelong Future Economy Precinct anchored by Deakin University's Waurn Ponds campus. A nearer-term Epworth-led growth plan is also progressing on the existing hospital, with two new operating theatres opened in October 2025 and an additional 66 inpatient beds (lifting capacity from 250 to 316) plus expanded day oncology, neurosciences and surgical services in delivery. The site partnership stems from a 2021 sale and leaseback arrangement between Epworth and NorthWest Healthcare Properties REIT (now operating as Vital Infrastructure Property Trust), with Epworth retaining hospital operations.

Health

Highton Urban Design Framework
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Comprehensive village improvement framework for Highton Village, including enhanced streetscapes in Bellevue Arcade and Village Walk, building height guidelines up to 4 storeys, improved parking and traffic management, and greater pedestrianisation. The implementation amendment (C457ggee) was adopted by the Council in August 2025.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Levande Highton Retirement Village
Category: Communities
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2029
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A $70 million retirement village being developed by Levande on a 4.71-hectare former caravan park site opposite Waurn Ponds Shopping Centre in Highton, Geelong. The project delivers 125 architecturally designed single-storey villas across two and three bedroom layouts, with single and double garage options. A central two-storey clubhouse with wellness facilities, heated pool, gym, cinema and library anchors the community. Construction commenced in March 2026 via a sod-turning ceremony, with builder Winslow Constructors and architect ClarkeHopkinsClarke leading delivery across four stages.First residents are expected to move in by early 2027.

Communities

22-24 Barrabool Road Development
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   

Proposed apartment development on Barrabool Road in Highton village area. Details under development with planning applications in progress.

Residential Development

Morven Townhomes
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2025
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A boutique residential development featuring 19 architecturally designed townhouses and units with 3-5 bedroom layouts. Set within thoughtfully landscaped grounds with native planting influenced by the surrounding rolling hills and coastline. The development represents quality infill housing in established Highton with modern finishes and spacious living areas.

Residential Development

34 Barrabool Road Apartments
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2025

Three-storey apartment building with 10 apartments featuring 2 and 3-bedroom units, basement carpark and communal outdoor area. Located 100m north of Highton Village shops.

Residential Development

Highton Green
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2023
Source / Links: Link 1   

61 dwellings development at 148-170 Pigdons Road featuring 2-bedroom townhouses with basement parking. Completed in 2023, located within walking distance of Deakin University and Epworth Hospital. Project marketing by Ferris Gold.

Residential Development

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Highton

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14,227 residents of Highton are employed, from a labour force of 14,536. Unemployment sits at 2.1%, with participation at 68.7%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 6.9% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth. The working-day population is estimated at 22,359, about 87% of the resident population, so more people leave the area for work than travel in. Unemployment and labour force come from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, updated quarterly; the industry and occupation profile is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

The local workforce is characterized by high levels of education and a strong concentration in essential services, showing an unemployment rate of only 2.1% alongside stable employment trends over the preceding year. As of March 2026, employed residents numbered 14,227, with the local unemployment rate sitting 1.6% lower than the Regional Vic. average of 3.7%. Participation in the labor market is high at 68.7% compared to 61.1% for Regional Vic. Furthermore, 26.3% of working residents reported working from home in the Census, though this figure may have been influenced by COVID-19 lockdown restrictions.

The major employment sectors for Highton residents are health care & social assistance, education & training, and retail trade. The suburb displays a strong concentration in education & training, with its share of employment reaching 1.5 times the regional average. By contrast, agriculture, forestry & fishing is underrepresented, making up only 0.8% of the local workforce compared to the regional average of 7.5%. The comparison between Census data for local workers versus resident workers suggests there is a limited supply of jobs located within Highton itself. An analysis of SALM and ABS statistics by AreaSearch indicates that in the year ending March 2026, Highton's labor force shrank by 0.9% and the number of employed residents fell by 0.5%, resulting in a 0.4 percentage point decline in the unemployment rate. Over the same timeframe, Regional Vic. saw employment fall by 0.1%, the labor force contract by 0.3%, and the unemployment rate decline by 0.2 percentage points. National employment forecasts from May-25 published by Jobs and Skills Australia provide context for future trends. These projections, covering five and ten-year horizons, have been applied to the local workforce structure to model potential changes. While overall national employment is expected to grow by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, trends vary widely by industry. Weighting these national rates to Highton's industry mix yields a projected local employment expansion of 6.9% over five years and 14.1% over ten years, representing a simple mathematical extrapolation that does not account for local population changes.

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the Highton SA2?
As of March 2026, the Highton SA2 has approximately 14,227 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.1%. 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.
How does the Highton SA2's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the Highton SA2 stands at 2.1%, which is 1.6 percentage points below Regional Vic.'s rate of 3.7%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
What are the major employment sectors in the Highton SA2?
The employment landscape in the Highton SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (18.5% of employment), education & training (13.7%), and retail trade (11.6%). Other significant employers include construction and professional & technical.
How has employment changed recently in the Highton SA2?
Over the past year to March 2026, the Highton SA2 has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fall. By comparison, Regional Vic. saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate dropped.
What is the workforce participation rate in the Highton SA2?
The workforce participation rate in the Highton SA2 is 68.7%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate leading the Regional Vic. average of 61.1%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
Which industries are over-represented in the Highton SA2's employment market?
The highton sa2 shows notable specialization in education & training, which employs 13.7% of the local workforce compared to 9.1% regionally. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
What are the employment growth prospects for the Highton SA2?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the Highton SA2's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 6.9% over the next five years and 14.1% over ten years. This exceeds the national forecast of 6.6% over five years, suggesting the area's industry composition is well-positioned for future growth. Steady growth is anticipated across multiple sectors, providing diverse employment opportunities.
How does the job market in the Highton SA2 compare nationally?
The highton 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 3.2% decline, ranking 26.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the Highton SA2?
Skilled workers will find excellent opportunities in the Highton SA2, with knowledge-intensive sectors comprising 44.5% of local employment. Key sectors for skilled workers include health care & social assistance (18.5%), education & training (13.7%), and professional & technical (7.6%). With projected employment growth of 6.9% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Highton

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Median household income in Highton is $2,111 a week (about $110,000 a year), with median personal income at $859 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $54,610 a year against an average of $68,773. Household income is from the 2021 Census; taxable income is from ATO Taxation Statistics for the latest financial year available, indexed forward using the ABS Wage Price Index.

Detail

ATO records from postcode data for financial year 2023 show Highton SA2 taxpayers had a median income of $54,610 and an average income of $68,773. These figures sit slightly above the national average and compare to regional averages of $50,954 (median) and $62,728 (average). Adjusting for a 9.62% increase in the Wage Price Index since financial year 2023 yields estimated values of approximately $59,863 for the median and $75,389 for the average as of March 2026. In the 2021 Census, Highton's household, family, and individual incomes fell around the 66th percentile nationally.

The local income profile shows 30.7% of the population (7,924 individuals) earning between $1,500 - 2,999 per week, which aligns closely with the metropolitan average of 30.3%. High-income earners are prominent, with 32.8% of the population earning over $3,000 per week, showing strong spending capacity. Residents retain 87.8% of their income after paying for housing, and the area is ranked in the 8th decile on the SEIFA index of relative advantage.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the Highton SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Highton SA2 is approximately $59,863. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $54,610.
What is the average taxable income in the Highton SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Highton SA2 is approximately $75,389. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $68,773.
How does the median taxable income in the Highton SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Highton SA2 is approximately $59,863 compared to $55,856 in Regional Vic.. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $54,610 and $50,954 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the Highton SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Highton SA2 is approximately $75,389 compared to $68,762 in Regional Vic.. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $68,773 and $62,728 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the Highton SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~30.7% / 7,924 persons) of the Highton SA2's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the Highton SA2 compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the Highton SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 30.7% of the population. In comparison, Regional Vic.'s largest income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 30.3% of its population, according to the 2021 Census.
What is the median household income in the Highton SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Highton SA2 is $2,111/wk.
What is the median family income in the Highton SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Highton SA2 is $2,575/wk.
What is the median personal income in the Highton SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Highton SA2 is $859/wk.
How does the Highton SA2's income rank nationally?
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-23, the Highton SA2 had a median income among taxpayers of $54,610 with the average level standing at $68,773. This is just above the national average and compares to levels of $50,954 and $62,728 across Regional Vic. respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 9.62% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $59,863 (median) and $75,389 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the Highton SA2?
The estimated disposable income in the Highton SA2 is $8,032 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the Highton SA2's disposable income compare to the region?
The highton sa2's disposable income is $8,032 compared to $5,209 for Regional Vic., based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Highton

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Highton had 8,342 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 89% detached houses and 0% apartments. 40% are owned with a mortgage, 20% rented and 40% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $365 a week and the median mortgage repayment $2,000 a month. Rent absorbs 17.3% of household income here and mortgage repayments 21.9%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

At the time of the latest Census, the housing stock in Highton consisted of 88.6% detached houses and 11.3% other dwellings like semi-detached properties and apartments, compared to 90.1% houses and 9.9% other structures across Regional Vic. The home ownership rate matches the regional average, with 40.0% of homes owned outright, while 39.7% are mortgaged and 20.3% are rented. The median monthly mortgage payment in Highton was $2,000, which is higher than the regional average of $1,430 and the national average of $1,863. Conversely, the median weekly rent was $365, which is higher than the Regional Vic.

median of $285 but lower than the Australian median of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the Highton SA2?
In the Highton SA2, 40.0% of homes are owned outright, 39.7% are owned with a mortgage, and 20.3% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the Highton SA2 are houses?
According to the latest data, 88.6% of dwellings in the Highton SA2 are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the Highton SA2 are apartments or units?
In the Highton SA2, 0.2% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 11.1% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the Highton SA2?
Outright home ownership in the Highton SA2 stands at 40.0%, compared to 40.9% in Regional Vic..
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the Highton SA2?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Highton SA2 is $2,000, compared to $1,430 in Regional Vic..
What is the median weekly rent in the Highton SA2?
The median weekly rent in the Highton SA2 is $365, compared to $285 in Regional Vic..
What is the distribution of rental prices in the Highton SA2?
In the Highton SA2, 3.2% of rentals are $0-149/week, 38.5% are $150-349/week, 53.5% are $350-649/week, 4.0% are $650-949/week, and 0.7% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the Highton SA2?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Highton SA2 is $1,115, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the Highton SA2?
In the Highton SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 21.9% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 17.3% of their income on rent.
How crowded are homes in the Highton SA2?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Highton SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the Highton SA2 compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the Highton SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 21.9% of income on repayments (vs 23.8% regionally), while renters spend 17.3% of income on rent (vs 20.6% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the Highton SA2?
The dwelling mix in the Highton SA2 consists of 88.6% detached houses, 11.1% semi-detached dwellings, 0.2% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the Highton SA2?
Based on the area's tenure composition, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $1,115. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $2,000/month, and renters paying $1,580/month.
How affordable is housing in the Highton SA2 relative to local incomes?
Housing in Highton consumes approximately 12.2% of median household income ($9,141 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
How do proposed developments compare to existing housing types in the Highton SA2?
Recent development applications in Highton show attached dwellings contributing 28% of approvals compared to 11% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 72% of applications versus 89% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Housing density growth is around the national average.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Highton

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Highton counted 8,342 households at the 2021 Census, an estimated 8,959 today, averaging 2.7 people each. 37% are couples with children, against 29% couples without children. 22% of households are people living alone, and families average 1.6 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Families make up the majority of local households at 74.5%, consisting of couples with children at 37.4%, couples without children at 28.7%, and single parent households at 7.7%. Non-family households account for the remaining 25.5%, with single-person homes at 22.0% and group households making up 3.5%. The median household size of 2.7 people is larger than the Regional Vic. average of 2.4.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the Highton SA2?
As of the 2021 Census, the Highton SA2 had 8,342 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 7.4% to an estimated 8,959 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median household size in the Highton SA2 is 2.7 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional Vic. and reflects the area's household composition mix.
What types of households are most common?
Family households dominate at 74.5% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (22.0%), group households (3.5%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 6,214 family households, 37.4% are couples with children, 28.7% are couples without children at home, and 7.7% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the Highton SA2 compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Regional Vic., the Highton SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Family households are notably over-represented at 74.5% (versus 67.8% regionally). Conversely, lone person households are under-represented at 22.0% compared to the regional 29.3%. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
What is the average family size?
Families in the Highton SA2 have an average of 1.6 children, slightly below the Regional Vic. average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
What are the marriage patterns in the Highton SA2?
Marriage patterns reveal 51.7% of the adult population are currently married, while 35.4% have never married. This compares to 46.3% married and 34.0% never married across Regional Vic..
How significant are single-person households?
Single-person households represent 22.0% of all households in the Highton SA2, notably lower than the regional average of 29.3%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Are shared living arrangements common?
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 3.5% of households, well below the Regional Vic. average of 2.9%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
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EducationSchools & Education in Highton

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38.5% of adults in Highton hold a university qualification, including 25.5% with a bachelor degree and 8.8% with postgraduate qualifications, higher than 91% of areas nationally. A further 17.7% hold a vocational qualification. 8 schools serve the area, with 3,752 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 1,098 against a national benchmark of 1,000. Qualifications come from the 2021 Census; school enrolments, ICSEA and results come from ACARA's current release.

Detail

Educational qualifications in Highton are high, with 38.5% of residents aged 15+ holding a university degree, compared to 21.7% in the Rest of Vic. and 27.3% within the broader SA3 area. This provides a strong base for professional and service industries. Bachelor degrees are the most common qualification at 25.5%, followed by postgraduate degrees at 8.8% and graduate diplomas at 4.2%. Vocational training is also well represented, with 29.9% of residents aged 15+ holding qualifications, consisting of advanced diplomas (12.2%) and certificates (17.7%). A high proportion of the population is engaged in study, with 33.9% of residents enrolled in formal education.

This includes 10.2% attending tertiary institutions, 9.9% in primary school, and 8.2% in secondary school.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the Highton SA2 have university qualifications?
38.5% of people aged 15 and over in the Highton SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.7% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the Highton SA2 have no formal qualifications?
31.5% of people aged 15 and over in the Highton SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 40.4% regionally.
How does the Highton SA2's education level compare to national averages?
The highton sa2 ranks in the 91th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
What types of qualifications are most common in the Highton SA2?
The most common qualifications in the Highton SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (25.5%), Certificate (17.7%), Advanced Diploma (12.2%).
What proportion of the Highton SA2's population is currently attending educational institutions?
33.9% of the population in the Highton SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, with 9.9% in primary school, 8.2% in secondary school, 10.2% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the Highton SA2?
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Highton SA2 is 1098, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
How many schools are located within the Highton SA2?
There are 8 schools within the Highton SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 3,752 students.
What types of schools are available in the Highton SA2?
The highton sa2 includes 5 primary schools, 3 combined schools.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Highton

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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Highton

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Public transport in Highton reaches 79 stops on 15 routes, timetabled for about 3,100 services a week. The typical home sits about 290 m from its nearest stop. Buses carry the largest share of public transport commuters. Households keep an average of 1.7 vehicles. Stop and service counts are built from operators' published GTFS timetables and refresh with each timetable release; vehicle ownership is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

Public transport infrastructure in Highton includes 79 active transport stops. These stops are serviced by 15 separate routes, which combine to offer 3,054 passenger trips per week. The area has good transport accessibility, with the average distance to a stop being 285 meters. As a residential suburb, most commuting is outbound, with private cars being the primary mode of travel for 93% of residents. Household car ownership averages 1.7 vehicles per dwelling, which is higher than the regional average. Additionally, 26.3% of employed residents worked from home, according to the 2021 Census, which may have been influenced by COVID-19 conditions.

Service frequency across all routes averages 436 runs per day, which translates to approximately 38 weekly trips per active stop.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Highton?
There are 79 public transport stops within the Highton SA2.
How frequent are the transport services in Highton?
the Highton SA2 has 3,054 weekly trips across 15 routes, averaging 436 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Highton?
On average, residential properties are 285 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Highton

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70.9% of residents in Highton report no long-term health condition, a healthier profile than 85% of areas nationally. 4.2% need daily assistance with core activities, and 53.3% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 4.0 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Highton shows positive health statistics, characterized by low mortality rates and a low prevalence of chronic health conditions across all demographic groups. The rate of private health insurance is slightly above the SA2 average, covering approximately 53% of the population (~13,757 people), compared to 50.5% in Regional Vic. Asthma and mental health issues are the most common chronic conditions reported locally, affecting 8.4 and 7.9% of residents, respectively. A high 70.9% of the population reported no chronic health conditions, compared to 63.4% across Regional Vic. The population under 65 displays favorable health metrics.

Residents aged 65 and over make up 16.3% of the population (4,212 people), which is lower than the Regional Vic. share of 23.9%. Health statistics for this older age group remain strong, with national rankings aligning with those of the broader community.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the Highton SA2 have private health insurance?
Around 53.3% of people in the Highton SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 50.5% in the broader region of Regional Vic..
What percentage of the population requires ongoing medical assistance in the Highton SA2?
In the Highton SA2, 4.2% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 6.9% of people in Regional Vic. require similar assistance.
How prevalent is asthma in the Highton SA2?
8.4% of people in the Highton SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.7% of the population across Regional Vic. is affected by asthma.
What percentage of people have diabetes in the Highton SA2?
Diabetes affects 3.0% of the the Highton SA2 population, while in the surrounding region, 4.6% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
What is the percentage of people with heart disease in the Highton SA2?
3.2% of people in the Highton SA2 have heart disease. Across the region of Regional Vic., 4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the Highton SA2 compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the Highton SA2, 53.3% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional Vic. sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 50.5%.

Ancestry & LanguageCultural Diversity in Highton

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Highton is largely Australian-born, at 80.6% of residents, with 12.8% speaking a language other than English at home. The largest reported ancestries are English (28.1%) and Australian (25.4%). Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Cultural diversity in Highton is similar to the regional average, with 80.6% of residents born in Australia, 88.9% holding citizenship, and 87.2% speaking only English at home. The main religious affiliation is Christianity, representing 50.1% of the population. The most notable religious overrepresentation relative to the region is Hinduism, which is practiced by 1.8% of the population compared to 0.7% across Regional Vic. Looking at parent birthplaces, the primary ancestries represented in Highton are English at 28.1%, Australian at 25.4%, and Irish at 9.9%. Other notable differences in ethnic representation include Scottish ancestry at 9.5% (compared to 8.8% regionally), Dutch ancestry at 1.8% (compared to 1.7% regionally), and Croatian ancestry at 0.9% (compared to 0.4% regionally).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the Highton SA2?
Highton was found to be roughly in line with the wider region's average in terms of cultural diversity, with 80.6% of its population born in Australia, 88.9% being citizens, and 87.2% speaking English only at home.
What is the most common religion in the Highton SA2?
The main religion in Highton was found to be Christianity, which makes up 50.1% of people in Highton. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Hinduism, which comprises 1.8% of the population, compared to 0.7% across Regional Vic..
What are the top countries of origin in the Highton SA2?
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Highton are English, comprising 28.1% of the population, Australian, comprising 25.4% of the population, and Irish, comprising 9.9% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Scottish is notably overrepresented at 9.5% of Highton (vs 8.8% regionally), Dutch at 1.8% (vs 1.7%) and Croatian at 0.9% (vs 0.4%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
19.4% of the the Highton SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.2% regionally.
What percentage of the the Highton SA2 population speaks a language other than English at home?
12.8% of the population in the Highton SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.6% in the wider region.
How many people in the Highton SA2 identify as Australian Aboriginal?
0.4% of the the Highton SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the Highton SA2?
88.9% of the the Highton SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 88.6% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Highton

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The median resident of Highton is 37. That is 1 year younger than at the 2021 Census. 30.9% of residents are aged 15 to 34. Age cohorts are not raw Census counts: the Census split is re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections.

Detail

The median age of 37 years in Highton is lower than the Regional Vic. average of 43 and close to the national average of 38. The age structure is characterized by a high proportion of 15 - 24 year-olds (17.1%), while the 65 - 74 age bracket is smaller (8.8%) than the regional average. The median age fell by 1.0 years from 38 to 37 since 2021, showing a shift toward a younger demographic. Key shifts include the 25 to 34 age group increasing from 11.6% to 13.7% of the population, and the 15 to 24 cohort rising from 15.6% to 17.1%.

In contrast, the 55 to 64 group declined from 11.5% to 9.8% and the 45 to 54 cohort fell from 12.8% to 11.5%. Demographic projections for 2041 suggest changes, with the 25 to 34 bracket expected to grow by 66% (2,325 people) to reach 5,862 from 3,536, while the 65 to 74 cohort is projected to see minimal growth of 1% (27 people).

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the Highton SA2?
According to the latest data, the median age in the Highton SA2 is 37 years.
How does the Highton SA2's median age compare to broader areas?
At 37 years, Highton is 6 years younger than the Regional Vic. average (43 years) and comparable to the national average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the Highton SA2?
The most over-represented age group in the Highton SA2 compared to the Regional Vic. region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 17.1% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the Highton SA2?
The most under-represented age group in the Highton SA2 compared to the Regional Vic. region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 8.8% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
Yes, certain age groups in the Highton SA2 show significant variance compared to the Regional Vic. region. The most over-represented age group is 15-24 year-olds (17.1% vs 11.3%).
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the Highton SA2?
The percentage of children aged 0-14 years in the Highton SA2 is 18.0%.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the Highton SA2?
The percentage of people aged 65 and over in the Highton SA2 is 16.3%.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Highton

Data currency Refreshed

9 of 14 data sections on this page were updated within the last 12 months — the newest current to Aug 2026.

Everything is aggregated to the SA2 boundary shown above, on a 2021 Census baseline. Only 3 sections — housing, households and cultural diversity — still wait on the 2026 Census.

The ledger — source, cycle and currency by section

Section Source & update cycle Currency
Updated within the last 12 months 9 sections
Population ABS, GNAF, Geoscience Australia Annual (ABS ERP) May 2026 3 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release) and updated with new dwellings from GNAF address data. Current to May 2026, with the 2021 Census supplying the small-area baseline.
Age profile ABS, Geoscience Australia, State governments Annual May 2026 3 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Age cohorts are re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections, current to May 2026. Each cohort is held as a Census baseline and a current estimate.
Development & approvals ABS, GNAF Monthly (ABS approvals) Jun 2026 2 months ago headline measures · May 2026 baseline
Property sales & rents Valuer General, Rental Board, ABS Weekly sales, quarterly rents Aug 2026 this month all 21 measures
Sales from the state Valuer General register, refreshed weekly, and rents from quarterly rental bond lodgements. Both are read live each time this page loads, current to Aug 2026.
Infrastructure projects Infrastructure Australia, State agencies, Local governments Daily Jun 2026 2 months ago all 12 projects tracked here
Project pipeline maintained continuously from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, local government and public announcements. Records are added and revised daily; this area was last updated Jun 2026.
Employment ABS, DEWR, JSA Quarterly (ABS SALM) Mar 2026 5 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Unemployment and labour force from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, current to Mar 2026. The growth outlook applies Department of Employment (now Jobs and Skills Australia) forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to the local industry mix, so it measures sector composition rather than local expansion and makes no allowance for population growth. Job demand comes from the same agency via its Internet Vacancy Index; industry and occupation structure from the 2021 Census.
Education ABS, ACARA Annual (ACARA) Aug 2026 this month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Transport ABS, State Transport Departments Each timetable release Jul 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Services & amenities Provider directories, ACECQA Continuous Jul 2026 last month all 14 measures
Annual and financial-year sources 2 sections
Income ABS, ATO Annual (ATO) FY 2023 3 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
ATO taxable income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index. Census household income provides the distribution detail.
Health ABS, ATO Annual 2024 2 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Census-measured — next update: 2026 Census 3 sections No more current small-area source exists for these, so they are labelled as Census-measured rather than implied to be current.
Housing ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 30 measures
Households ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 18 measures
Cultural diversity ABS, Geoscience Australia 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 44 measures

"Currency" is the most recent release feeding that section. Where the Census supplies the structural baseline underneath a current headline figure, the row says so.

How the numbers are built

Population

The Census provides the small-area baseline, aggregated from mesh blocks to this boundary. It is then re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release), and new dwellings built since Census night are counted from address data — 257 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for May 2026, not a 2021 count (24,034 at the 2021 Census → 25,812 now). Annual growth rates are compound (CAGR), not simple averages.

Age profile

Cohort shares are not raw Census counts. Every cohort is held as a pair — the Census baseline and a current estimate — and the split is re-based using ERP and state population projections, current to May 2026. Median age is the Census median plus modelled change since. Charts that show both are labelled "2021 Census vs Current Estimate".

Property sales

Sourced from the state valuation authority's sales register — current, not Census, and refreshed weekly. Medians are calculated from settled transactions in the period shown; periods with very low transaction counts are flagged or suppressed, because a handful of sales can move a median substantially.

Rents

Derived from state rental bond lodgement data, by dwelling type and bedroom count. Bonds are lodged at the start of a new tenancy, so this reflects new lettings, not the whole rented stock.

Development & infrastructure

Building approvals come from current ABS releases; development applications are collected from council and state planning portals; the infrastructure pipeline is compiled from Infrastructure Australia and local government sources. Applications are matched to this boundary by address or coordinates, so very recent lodgements may not yet appear.

Employment & income

Industry and occupation structure comes from the Census, but the headline labour-market indicators do not. Unemployment and labour force are derived from ABS Small Area Labour Markets (quarterly). The employment outlook applies Department of Employment forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to this area's own industry mix (the agency is now Jobs and Skills Australia), as does the Internet Vacancy Index used for job demand. Because it is weighted on industry composition alone, that outlook carries no allowance for local population growth — in fast-growing areas the real rise in local jobs will typically be higher. Income combines Census household income with ATO taxable-income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index.

Education, transport & amenities

School enrolments, ICSEA and performance come from ACARA's current release, not the Census. Public transport stops and service frequency are derived from GTFS timetable feeds published by state transport departments. Services and amenities are proximity and count scores built from provider directories, refreshed on their own cycle. The Census contributes only the travel-to-work and qualification measures.

Rankings and benchmarks. Where we rank this area, the comparison set is every area of the same boundary type — suburbs against suburbs, SA2s against SA2s. Benchmarks compare this area against its greater capital city region and the national figure for the same measure and period.

Limits worth knowing. Small areas carry larger error margins, and the ABS introduces small random adjustments to Census counts to protect confidentiality — so totals may not sum exactly. Estimates re-based from regional data describe the area's expected trajectory, not a direct count of it. Figures are indicative for research and are not financial, planning or valuation advice.

Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (203021042). QuickStats reports 2021 only — the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.

Common questions about this page

Why can the Highton SA2 boundary differ from the suburb boundary?
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (e.g., 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.
Where does the data on this Highton page come from?
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources — including ABS, Geoscience Australia, Valuer General, Provider directories, DEWR, JSA, State Transport Departments and ACARA — then aggregates them to the boundary shown and calculates the rankings, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments.
Is the Highton data on this page just from the 2021 Census?
No. Most of this page is maintained well beyond the Census. Sourced entirely from current releases: development & approvals (Jun 2026), property sales & rents (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Jun 2026) and services & amenities (Jul 2026). Built on a Census baseline but carrying newer measures on top: population (to May 2026), age profile (to May 2026), employment (to Mar 2026), income (to FY 2023), education (to Aug 2026), transport (to Jul 2026) and health (to 2024). Population and age cohorts in particular are re-based to the latest ABS Estimated Resident Population rather than left at 2021 counts. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.

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