Area profile · Rest of Vic.
Phillip Island has an estimated 15,012 residents, up 8.8% since the 2021 Census, with 22 projects tracked in Phillip Island.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Phillip Island Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 78 kilometres south-southeast from Melbourne CBD. Its population is around 15,012 as of Aug 2026, based on AreaSearch's analysis, following an increase of 1,213 people (8.8%) since the 2021 Census count of 13,799. This estimate draws on the ABS estimated resident population (ERP) of 14,801 as of June 2025 and 615 Validated New Addresses since the Census date. The area ranks in the top 10% nationally for population growth. Its profile includes strong outright home ownership, a low average household size, notable arts and recreation and hospitality employment, and substantial mature, retirement-aged, 65 to 74yo and 75 to 84yo populations. Many older residents are couples without children, and income levels are in the lower quartile.
Phillip Island, in Victoria, Australia, combines natural and cultural attractions, including beaches, landscapes and Australian wildlife such as little penguins, seals and koalas.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 7,361 in 2001 and 14,795 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 15,012 (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, 19.8%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $800 - 1,499, 27.7%.
Phillip Island ranks in the 94th percentile nationally for population growth and the 81st for development activity.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
The median rent in Phillip Island is $508 a week, up 5.5% over 12 months to Sep 2025 and 11% above Regional Vic..
11% above Regional Vic. on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $303 in 2016, $529 in 2025; Units (dashed orange line): $272 in 2016, $429 in 2025. The latest is to Sep 2025.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $508 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +5.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, houses | $529 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +5.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, units | $429 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 | +2.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Gippsland - South West | $456 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Gippsland - South West, over 12 months | +5.8% | 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 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 5 tracked applications: 0 approved, 0 under assessment, 5 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 22 projects in Phillip Island (9 under construction) and 189 more in the surrounding area.
Redevelopment of 140-year-old pub into 7-story mixed-use hotel with 163 keys, pool deck, rooftop sports courts, and key-worker hostel.
A planned 32.67-hectare greenfield regional sports and recreation precinct in Cowes.
Comprehensive town centre streetscape and public realm revitalisation project connecting Cowes township to the foreshore along Thompson…
The Cowes to Rhyll Shared Pathway Connection is a multi-stage active transport project designed to link Cowes and Rhyll via off-road shared…
Lifestyle Communities Phillip Island is a master-planned land lease community for downsizers over 50 located at 498 Settlement Road in…
A 13-hectare oceanfront geothermal bathing and wellness precinct at Newhaven on the south coast of Phillip Island, approximately 101km from…
Permit approved luxury residential development comprising 91 apartments across two five-storey buildings with 117 car spaces on a 4,053sqm…
Development of a $46M oceanfront geothermal wellness destination spanning 13 hectares at Newhaven/Cape Woolamai in the 3925 postcode area.
A $980,000 shared path project connecting the townships of Cowes and Ventnor.
A multi-million dollar double-storey community hospital at 50-58 Church Street, Cowes.
Construction of five single storey dwellings within unused road reserve between Roydon Road and Wyndham Avenue, Cowes.
A $4 million waterfront microbrewery and distillery at 11 Beach Road, Rhyll.
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 127 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 6, 2026 39, 2027 41, 2028 23, 2029 5, 2030 7, 2031 0, 2032 2, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 1, 2036 3. 33 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 5 substantial development applications lodged in and around Phillip Island over the period covered (about 3 years), none in the last 12 months. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2023 (part year) 4, 2024 0, 2025 1, 2026 (to Oct) 0.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 5 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 3 years) | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 0 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 12.7 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 89th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 176 | ABS building approvals | 90th percentile nationally |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Phillip Island SA2 include: Cowes to Rhyll Shared Path Connection (Planning); Phillip Island Sporting Precinct (Planning); Cowes Foreshore Precinct Streetscape Upgrades (Construction); Isle of Wight Hotel Redevelopment (Construction); and Samuel Property Warley Avenue Apartments (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Phillip Island SA2 spans multiple sectors including Sports & Recreation, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Tourism, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Phillip Island SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 32nd percentile.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Phillip Island among the top 19% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Phillip Island SA2 area has seen 158 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Phillip Island SA2's current population of 15,012 has been supported by 176 approvals on average over recent years.
The Phillip Island SA2 has seen 12.7 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 190 people in the Phillip Island SA2, compared to one for every 145 in Regional Vic..
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Phillip Island SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 176, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the Phillip Island SA2 has grown by approximately 1,720 people, while 878 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 2.0 people added for each new dwelling approval. This suggests a balanced relationship between population growth and housing supply.
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.
Phillip Island lies within the top 6% of areas nationally in terms of population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of short and medium-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 15,012 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +8.8% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Population density | 149 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 31st percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +2.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +3.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 13,799 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 1,213 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 100.57 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Phillip Island SA2 was estimated to be approximately 15,012 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 14,801 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The phillip island sa2 has added approximately 1,213 people and shown a 8.79% increase from the 13,799 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Phillip Island SA2 is estimated at 149 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Phillip Island SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 3.7% per annum.
Population growth in the Phillip Island SA2 is driven by: Interstate migration (78.8%), Overseas migration (21.2%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 78.8% of overall population gains.
Phillip Island ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 52 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 94th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 33.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 13.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 15.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 43.9% | 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 | 52 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 3.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 10.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 8.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 7.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 10.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 15.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 19.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 11.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Phillip Island SA2 at 52 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 52 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 52 years as at August 2026, Phillip Island is 9 years older than the Regional Vic. 2021 Census average (43 years) and 14 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Phillip Island SA2 compared to the Regional Vic. region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 19.8% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Phillip Island SA2 compared to the Regional Vic. region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 7.0% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Phillip Island SA2 show significant variance compared to Regional Vic.. The most over-represented age group is 65-74 year-olds (19.8% vs 12.8%). The most under-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (7.0% vs 11.0%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 13.9% of the population in the Phillip Island SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 33.4% of the population in the Phillip Island SA2 as at August 2026.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 10% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $45,766 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 5th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $61,382 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,175 | 2021 Census, weekly | 11th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $640 | 2021 Census, weekly | 17th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 12.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,490 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 34.2% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Phillip Island SA2 is approximately $48,787. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $45,766.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Phillip Island SA2 is approximately $65,433. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $61,382.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Phillip Island SA2 is approximately $48,787 compared to $57,266 in Regional Vic.. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $45,766 and $53,720 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Phillip Island SA2 is approximately $65,433 compared to $70,544 in Regional Vic.. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $61,382 and $66,176 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Phillip Island SA2's households (~27.7% / 1,531 households) is the $800 - 1,499 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Phillip Island SA2 is the $800 - 1,499 group, representing about 27.7% 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 Phillip Island SA2 is $1,175/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Phillip Island SA2 is $1,490/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Phillip Island SA2 is $640/wk.
As per AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the Phillip Island SA2's median income among taxpayers is $45,766, with an average of $61,382. 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 $48,787 (median) and $65,433 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Phillip Island SA2 is $4,321 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The phillip island sa2's disposable income is $4,321 compared to $5,209 for Regional Vic., based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Phillip Island demonstrate strong performance, ranking among the top 33% of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.6% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 53.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 6,609 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 13,744 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 6,787 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Phillip Island SA2 has approximately 6,609 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.6%. 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 Phillip Island SA2 stands at 2.6%, which is 1.2 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 Phillip Island SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are construction (13.8% of employment), health care & social assistance (13.0%), and accommodation & food (11.4%). Other significant employers include retail trade and education & training.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Phillip Island 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 Phillip Island SA2 is 53.3%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This moderate participation rate suggests some residents may face barriers to workforce entry. The local rate trailing the Regional Vic. average of 61.1%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The phillip island sa2 shows notable specialisation in accommodation & food, which employs 11.4% of the local workforce compared to 6.9% across Regional Vic.. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The phillip island 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.
The educational profile of Phillip Island ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 15.7% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 4.2% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 23.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 27.7% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 3.6% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 13.5% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 35.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 26.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 3.0% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 10.1% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.6% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
23.5% of people aged 15 and over in the Phillip Island SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.7% in Regional Vic..
35.3% of people aged 15 and over in the Phillip Island SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 40.4% in Regional Vic..
The phillip island sa2 ranks in the 67th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Phillip Island SA2 are: Certificate (27.7%), Bachelor Degree (15.7%), Advanced Diploma (13.5%).
26.5% of the population in the Phillip Island SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 10.1% in primary school, 7.6% in secondary school, 3.0% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Phillip Island SA2 is 1046, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 5 schools within the Phillip Island SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,746 students.
The phillip island sa2 includes 4 primary schools, 1 combined school.
Phillip Island features high concentrations of couples without children and lone person households but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional Vic.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.2 people | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 32.2% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 20.7% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 34.3% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 9.6% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.6% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 5,526 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 6,012 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 65.3% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.8 per family | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Phillip Island SA2 had 5,526 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 8.8% to an estimated 6,012 households today.
The average household size in the Phillip Island SA2 is 2.2 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional Vic. and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 65.3% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (32.2%), group households (2.6%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 3,608 family households, couples with children account for 20.7% of all households, couples without children at home 34.3%, and single parent families 9.6%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Vic., the Phillip Island SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Phillip Island SA2 have an average of 1.8 children, matching the Regional Vic. average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 50.3% of the adult population are currently married, while 27.1% have never married. This compares to 46.3% married and 34.0% never married across Regional Vic..
Single-person households represent 32.2% of all households in the Phillip Island 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 2.6% of households, slightly below the Regional Vic. average of 2.9%.
Phillip Island ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 18.7% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 6.6% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 93.4% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 87.2% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 81.3% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.7% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
Phillip Island was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 87.2% of its population being citizens, 81.3% born in Australia, and 93.4% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Phillip Island, at 42.4% of people, although more residents (55.0%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 1.2% of the population, compared to 1.0% across Regional Vic..
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Phillip Island are English, comprising 32.2% of the population, Australian, comprising 27.8% of the population, and Irish, comprising 9.6% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Dutch is notably overrepresented at 2.0% of Phillip Island (vs 1.7% across Regional Vic.), Scottish at 9.1% (vs 8.8%) and Welsh at 0.7% (vs 0.4%).
18.7% of the Phillip Island SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.2% across Regional Vic..
6.6% of the population in the Phillip Island SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.6% in Regional Vic..
0.7% of the Phillip Island SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Regional Vic..
87.2% of the Phillip Island SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 88.6% in Regional Vic..
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Phillip Island 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 | 22.9% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 47.8% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 89.1% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,517 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 30th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 29.2% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 8.1% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $330 | 2021 Census, weekly | 35th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 28.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 29.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 88th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
In the Phillip Island SA2, 47.8% of homes are owned outright, 29.2% are owned with a mortgage, and 22.9% are rented.
According to the latest data, 89.1% of dwellings in the Phillip Island SA2 are houses.
In the Phillip Island SA2, 2.6% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 8.1% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Phillip Island SA2 stands at 47.8%, compared to 40.9% in Regional Vic..
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Phillip Island SA2 is $1,517, compared to $1,430 in Regional Vic..
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Phillip Island SA2 is $770, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Phillip Island SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 29.8% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 28.1% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Phillip Island SA2 is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Phillip Island SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 29.8% of income on repayments (vs 23.8% in Regional Vic.), while renters spend 28.1% of income on rent (vs 20.6% in Regional Vic.).
The dwelling mix in the Phillip Island SA2 consists of 89.1% detached houses, 8.1% semi-detached dwellings, 2.6% apartments, and 0.3% other dwelling types.
Housing in Phillip Island consumes approximately 15.1% of median household income ($5,088 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Phillip Island show attached dwellings contributing 8% of approvals compared to 11% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 92% of applications versus 89% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Health performance in Phillip Island 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 | 48.6% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 18th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 61.5% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 6.5% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 72.6% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.7% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
Around 48.6% of people in the Phillip Island SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 50.8% in Regional Vic..
In the Phillip Island SA2, 6.5% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.9% of people in Regional Vic. require similar assistance.
7.8% of people in the Phillip Island SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.7% of the population across Regional Vic. is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.9% of the Phillip Island SA2 population, while in Regional Vic., 4.6% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
5.0% of people in the Phillip Island SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional Vic.,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Phillip Island SA2, 48.6% 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 | 30 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 30th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 54 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 45th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 152 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 13th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 277 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 3 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.3 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 23.1% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 54 public transport stops within the Phillip Island SA2.
The Phillip Island SA2 has 152 weekly trips across 3 routes, averaging 21 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 424 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 1.9 km away and the nearest school 2.0 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 54 stops nearby, 152 weekly trips, access rating 30 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 50 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 50th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 1.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 2.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 2.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 2.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest dentist | 2.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 2.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 2.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 4.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 16.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 19.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 20.0 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 4 long day care centres with 361 places in Phillip Island, about 1.5 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 Phillip Island is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
More sectors are coming soon for suburbs and areas. 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 Phillip Island.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Phillip Island among the top 19% of areas assessed nationwide.
Phillip Island has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 32nd percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Phillip Island is $508 a week, +5.5% over 12 months to Sep 2025.
Phillip Island lies within the top 6% of areas nationally in terms of population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of short and medium-term trends.
Phillip Island ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 10% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Phillip Island demonstrate strong performance, ranking among the top 33% of areas assessed nationally.
The educational profile of Phillip Island ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
Phillip Island features high concentrations of couples without children and lone person households but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional Vic.
Phillip Island ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Phillip Island is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Phillip Island 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.
Phillip Island has an estimated 15,012 residents, up 8.8% since the 2021 Census, with 22 projects tracked in Phillip Island.
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 Phillip Island.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2025, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Sep 2026. Housing, households and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 14 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (205031091). 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 (Sep 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Phillip Island 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 Phillip Island 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.