Area profile · Rest of Vic.
Maffra has an estimated 15,712 residents, up 6.5% since the 2021 Census, with 7 projects tracked in Maffra.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Maffra Statistical Area (Lv2), located 177 kilometres east from Melbourne CBD, has an estimated population of approximately 15,712 as of Aug 2026. This represents an increase of 956 people (6.5%) from the 2021 Census count of 14,756 people, based on the ABS estimated resident population of 15,549 as of June 2025 and 537 Validated New Addresses since the Census date. The area is characterised by strong outright home ownership, affordable housing options, detached housing, above-average children per family, and a notable utilities and agricultural employment base. Residents are somewhat older than the typical Australian area, with a median age of 43, and households are largely couples without children. Income levels are in the lower quartile, while population growth shows moderate expansion.
In Victoria, Australia, Maffra is set amid fertile agricultural land supporting local dairy and farming industries, with a rural atmosphere, heritage buildings and a strong local community.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Maffra Statistical Area (Lv2), located 177 kilometres east from Melbourne CBD, has an estimated population of approximately 15,712 as of Aug 2026. This represents an increase of 956 people (6.5%) from the 2021 Census count of 14,756 people, based on the ABS estimated resident population of 15,549 as of June 2025 and 537 Validated New Addresses since the Census date. The area is characterised by strong outright home ownership, affordable housing options, detached housing, above-average children per family, and a notable utilities and agricultural employment base. Residents are somewhat older than the typical Australian area, with a median age of 43, and households are largely couples without children. Income levels are in the lower quartile, while population growth shows moderate expansion.
In Victoria, Australia, Maffra is set amid fertile agricultural land supporting local dairy and farming industries, with a rural atmosphere, heritage buildings and a strong local community.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 13,002 in 2001 and 15,549 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 15,712 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 65 to 74, 13.9%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 30.9%.
Maffra ranks in the 75th percentile nationally for development activity and the 69th for employment drivers.
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 Maffra is $434 a week, up 4.8% over 12 months to Sep 2025 and 5% below Regional Vic..
5% below Regional Vic. on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $268 in 2016, $448 in 2025; Units (dashed orange line): $220 in 2016, $347 in 2025. The latest is to Sep 2025.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $434 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +4.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, houses | $448 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +5.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, units | $347 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 | +3.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Wellington | $430 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Wellington, over 12 months | +4.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Latrobe - Gippsland | $443 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Latrobe - Gippsland, over 12 months | +7.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Regional Vic. | $458 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Regional Vic., over 12 months | +5.9% | 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 |
AreaSearch tracks 7 projects in Maffra (1 under construction) and 91 more in the surrounding area.
The $69.7 million Maffra Aged Care Facility is a new 30-bed public residential aged care home at Maffra District Hospital, operated by Central Gippsland Health. It replaces the hospital's existing JHF McDonald Wing and Residential Aged Care Wing.
Regional digital infrastructure initiative led through the Gippsland Regional Partnership and Regional Development Victoria to improve digital connectivity across Gippsland.
The project involves the construction of retarding basins and wetlands to manage stormwater, alleviate flooding, support integrated water management, and enable residential development as part of the Maffra Structure Plan. Planning Scheme Amendment C120well, which implements these plans, is currently under consideration for adoption.
Redirection of large freight movements from Maffra-Newry Road to Powerscourt Street and then to Sandy Creek Road to reduce heavy vehicle traffic through the town centre and residential areas, improving safety, amenity, and traffic flow. Includes upgrading Sandy Creek Road to accommodate heavy vehicles as part of the adopted Maffra Structure Plan.
Strategic residential expansion area (Precinct E) designated under the Maffra Structure Plan. The precinct encompasses land identified for General Residential Zone and Low Density Residential Zone development, integrated with stormwater retarding basins, wetland infrastructure, and open space corridors to accommodate around 350 lots.
Council-led residential growth precinct north of Maffra (Precincts A-D) guided by the Maffra Structure Plan. Planning Scheme Amendment C120well implements the framework into the Wellington Planning Scheme through the introduction of General Residential Zone Schedule 2 (GRZ2) and Development Plan Overlay Schedule 1 (DPO1) to facilitate approximately 627…
A 20 year strategic structure plan being prepared by Wellington Shire Council to guide the future growth of Stratford. The plan will establish a settlement boundary, identify future residential, commercial and industrial growth areas, protect environmental and heritage assets, and provide the strategic basis for future amendments to the Wellington Planning…
A premium commercial estate in Sale's northern growth area on the Princes Highway, neighbouring Bunnings Warehouse. Construction of civil works is underway after a 15-year development process, with the latest release (marketed as Swanlake Commercial Park) offering 21 allotments from 1,350 to 2,770 sqm zoned Commercial 2 (C2Z), suited to bulky goods retail…
A major transformation of the Aqua Energy Leisure Centre, featuring a new, accessible 25m indoor pool, improved changing rooms, a 24/7 gym, and a water play area.
Dual-phase project at Sale College consisting of: (1) toilet refurbishment on the second floor, funded by $810,233 from Round 2 of the Australian Government Schools Upgrade Fund (start Q2 2024, forecast finish Q2 2026), and (2) planning and early works for Years 7-12 student facilities improvement, funded by $3 million from the 2021-22 State Budget, with…
A comprehensive redevelopment study for the East Bank site within the Port of Sale Cultural and Civic Precinct. The study aims to prepare new planning controls for the future use and redevelopment of the site containing former Sale Specialist School and Sale High School buildings, plus heritage-listed George Gray Centre.
A new centre providing 122 new childcare and kindergarten places, multi-purpose consulting suites, and meeting and activity spaces for early childhood services and community use.
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 59 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 4, 2026 13, 2027 10, 2028 13, 2029 0, 2030 9, 2031 1, 2032 4, 2033 3, 2034 1, 2035 1. 18 have no completion year.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS building approvals | 5.8 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 68th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 86 | ABS building approvals | 75th percentile nationally |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Maffra SA2 include: Maffra Aged Care Facility (Construction); Maffra South-Eastern Growth Precinct (Planning); Maffra Heavy Vehicle Bypass Route (Planning); Maffra Retarding Basins and Wetlands (Planning); and Maffra Northern Growth Precinct (Under Assessment). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Maffra SA2 spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Energy, and Health & Medical, among others.
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AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Maffra among the top 25% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Maffra SA2 area has seen 158 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Maffra SA2's current population of 15,712 has been supported by 86 approvals on average over recent years.
The Maffra SA2 has seen 5.8 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 7.6 approvals in Regional Vic.. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 202 people in the Maffra SA2, compared to one for every 145 in Regional Vic..
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Maffra SA2's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 86, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the Maffra SA2 has grown by approximately 951 people, while 430 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 2.2 people added for each new dwelling approval. This indicates solid population growth supported by housing development activity.
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.
Population growth drivers in Maffra are above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 15,712 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +6.5% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 6 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 16th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 14,756 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 956 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 2,532.32 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Maffra SA2 was estimated to be approximately 15,712 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 15,549 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The maffra sa2 has added approximately 956 people and shown a 6.48% increase from the 14,756 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Maffra SA2 is estimated at 6 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Maffra SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.1% per annum.
Population growth in the Maffra SA2 is driven by: Interstate migration (46.9%), Overseas migration (29.3%), Natural increase (23.8%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 46.9% of overall population gains.
Maffra's median age exceeds the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 43 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 70th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 24.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 18.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 22.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 45.2% | 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 | 43 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 12.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 10.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 11.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 12.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 13.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 8.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Maffra SA2 at 43 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 43 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 43 years as at August 2026, Maffra is equal to the Regional Vic. 2021 Census average and 5 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Maffra SA2 compared to the Regional Vic. region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 13.9% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Maffra SA2 compared to the Regional Vic. region is the 45 - 54 group, making up 10.4% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the Maffra SA2 is broadly in line with Regional Vic..
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 18.2% of the population in the Maffra SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 24.8% of the population in the Maffra SA2 as at August 2026.
Income figures position the area below 80% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $51,467 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 20th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $62,083 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,324 | 2021 Census, weekly | 21st percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $670 | 2021 Census, weekly | 22nd percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 12.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,726 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 30.3% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Maffra SA2 is approximately $54,864. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $51,467.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Maffra SA2 is approximately $66,180. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $62,083.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Maffra SA2 is approximately $54,864 compared to $57,266 in Regional Vic.. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $51,467 and $53,720 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Maffra SA2 is approximately $66,180 compared to $70,544 in Regional Vic.. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $62,083 and $66,176 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Maffra SA2's households (~30.9% / 1,738 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Maffra SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 30.9% of households. In comparison, Regional Vic.'s largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 30.3% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Maffra SA2 is $1,324/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Maffra SA2 is $1,726/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Maffra SA2 is $670/wk.
As per AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the Maffra SA2's median income among taxpayers is $51,467, with an average of $62,083. This is lower than average on a national basis, and compares to Regional Vic.'s median of $53,720 and average of $66,176. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.6% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $54,864 (median) and $66,180 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Maffra SA2 is $5,043 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The maffra sa2's disposable income is $5,043 compared to $5,209 for Regional Vic., based on AreaSearch analysis.
The labour market in Maffra shows considerable strength compared to most other Australian regions.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.8% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 61.1% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 7,453 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 14,037 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 7,668 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Maffra SA2 has approximately 7,453 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.8%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Maffra SA2 stands at 2.8%, which is 1.0 percentage points below Regional Vic.'s rate of 3.8%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Maffra SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (15.1% of employment), agriculture, forestry & fishing (13.0%), and construction (12.3%). Other significant employers include retail trade and education & training.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Maffra SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Regional Vic. saw employment increased and its unemployment rate dropped.
The workforce participation rate in the Maffra SA2 is 61.1%, 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 matching the Regional Vic. average of 61.1%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Regional Vic..
The maffra sa2 shows notable specialisation in agriculture, forestry & fishing, which employs 13.0% of the local workforce compared to 7.5% across Regional Vic.. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The maffra sa2's employment market shows above-average performance nationally, placing in the top half of areas assessed. Employment indicators suggest healthy labour market conditions relative to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 1.8% decline, ranking 26th out of 37 regions nationally.
Education in Maffra: university qualifications 15.6%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 977.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 10.9% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 2.1% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 15.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 32.9% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.6% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 9.9% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 41.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 27.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 2.2% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 11.5% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 8.5% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
15.6% of people aged 15 and over in the Maffra SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.7% in Regional Vic..
41.6% of people aged 15 and over in the Maffra SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 40.4% in Regional Vic..
The maffra sa2 ranks in the 33th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Maffra SA2 are: Certificate (32.9%), Bachelor Degree (10.9%), Advanced Diploma (9.9%).
27.9% of the population in the Maffra SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 11.5% in primary school, 8.5% in secondary school, 2.2% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Maffra SA2 is 977, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 11 schools within the Maffra SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,699 students.
The maffra sa2 includes 10 primary schools, 1 secondary school.
Maffra features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few group households, with an average household size in line with Regional Vic.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.4 people | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 28.0% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 27.0% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 32.8% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 9.4% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.0% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 5,626 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 5,990 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 70.0% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 2.0 per family | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Maffra SA2 had 5,626 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 6.5% to an estimated 5,990 households today.
The average household size in the Maffra SA2 is 2.4 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional Vic. and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 70.0% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (28.0%), group households (2.0%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 3,938 family households, couples with children account for 27.0% of all households, couples without children at home 32.8%, and single parent families 9.4%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Vic., the Maffra SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the Maffra SA2 have an average of 2.0 children, slightly above the Regional Vic. average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 48.4% of the adult population are currently married, while 32.3% have never married. This compares to 46.3% married and 34.0% never married across Regional Vic..
Single-person households represent 28.0% of all households in the Maffra SA2, similar to the average for Regional Vic. of 29.3%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.0% of households, below the Regional Vic. average of 2.9%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
The latest Census data sees Maffra placing among the least culturally diverse areas in the country when compared across a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 8.9% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 2.8% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 97.2% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 89.7% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 91.1% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.2% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
Maffra was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 89.7% of its population being citizens, 91.1% born in Australia, and 97.2% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Maffra, at 46.5% of people, although more residents (52.1%) reported no religion. Christianity accounts for 47.3% across Regional Vic..
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Maffra are Australian, comprising 34.2% of the population, English, comprising 32.9% of the population, and Irish, comprising 9.4% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Dutch is notably overrepresented at 2.2% of Maffra (vs 1.7% across Regional Vic.), Scottish at 8.7% (vs 8.8%) and Macedonian at 0.1% (vs 0.2%).
8.9% of the Maffra SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.2% across Regional Vic..
2.8% of the population in the Maffra SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.6% in Regional Vic..
1.2% of the Maffra SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Regional Vic..
89.7% of the Maffra SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 88.6% in Regional Vic..
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Maffra is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 17.1% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 43.7% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 95.5% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,300 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 18th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 39.2% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 0.2% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $250 | 2021 Census, weekly | 13th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 18.9% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 22.7% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 37th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
In the Maffra SA2, 43.7% of homes are owned outright, 39.2% are owned with a mortgage, and 17.1% are rented.
According to the latest data, 95.5% of dwellings in the Maffra SA2 are houses.
In the Maffra SA2, 3.8% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 0.2% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Maffra SA2 stands at 43.7%, compared to 40.9% in Regional Vic..
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Maffra SA2 is $1,300, compared to $1,430 in Regional Vic..
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Maffra SA2 is $694, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Maffra SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 22.7% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 18.9% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Maffra SA2 is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Maffra SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 22.7% of income on repayments (vs 23.8% in Regional Vic.), while renters spend 18.9% of income on rent (vs 20.6% in Regional Vic.).
The dwelling mix in the Maffra SA2 consists of 95.5% detached houses, 0.2% semi-detached dwellings, 3.8% apartments, and 0.6% other dwelling types.
Housing in Maffra consumes approximately 12.1% of median household income ($5,733 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Maffra show attached dwellings contributing 12% of approvals compared to 4% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 88% of applications versus 96% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Density increases remain below national trends.
Health performance in Maffra is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 48.8% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 21st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 64.8% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 6.3% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 73.3% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.1% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
Around 48.8% of people in the Maffra SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 50.8% in Regional Vic..
In the Maffra SA2, 6.3% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.9% of people in Regional Vic. require similar assistance.
8.4% of people in the Maffra SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.7% of the population across Regional Vic. is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.5% of the Maffra SA2 population, while in Regional Vic., 4.6% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
5.0% of people in the Maffra SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional Vic.,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Maffra SA2, 48.8% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional Vic. sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 50.8%.
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 26 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 26th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 26 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 26th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 103 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 10th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 600 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 7 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.8 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 13.6% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 26 public transport stops within the Maffra SA2.
The Maffra SA2 has 103 weekly trips across 7 routes, averaging 14 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 2283 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 2.5 km away and the nearest school 2.5 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 26 stops nearby, 103 weekly trips, access rating 26 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 48 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 48th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 2.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 2.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 4.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 4.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 4.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 6.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 6.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 9.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 21.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 21.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 21.7 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 241 places in Maffra, about 3.8 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 Maffra is built to order and emailed to you.
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The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Maffra.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Maffra among the top 25% of areas assessed nationwide.
Maffra ranks in the 37th percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Maffra is $434 a week, +4.8% over 12 months to Sep 2025.
Population growth drivers in Maffra are above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Maffra's median age exceeds the national pattern.
Income figures position the area below 80% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
The labour market in Maffra shows considerable strength compared to most other Australian regions.
Education in Maffra: university qualifications 15.6%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 977.
Maffra features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few group households, with an average household size in line with Regional Vic.
The latest Census data sees Maffra placing among the least culturally diverse areas in the country when compared across a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Maffra is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Maffra is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be in line with the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Maffra has an estimated 15,712 residents, up 6.5% since the 2021 Census, with 7 projects tracked in Maffra.
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 Maffra.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2025, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Oct 2026. Housing 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 (205051101). 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 (Oct 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, households, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Maffra 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 Maffra 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.
