Southbank - East

SA2

Greater Melbourne / Melbourne City

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Data Sources ABSValuer GeneralRental BoardACARA Newest Sep 2026 · Refreshed ABS QuickStats 206041509 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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Sales ActivityProperty Sales Trends in Southbank - East

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DemographicsPopulation Growth in Southbank - East

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Southbank - East has an estimated 19,552 residents, up from 16,101 at the 2021 Census — a change of 3,451 people, or 21.4%. Growth has averaged 2.5% a year over five years, faster than 91% of areas nationally. 684 new addresses have been validated here since Census night. Overseas migration accounts for 91.5% of that increase. That puts 24,440 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 from AreaSearch, the resident count in Southbank - East stands at approximately 19,552 as of Aug 2026. This represents an expansion of 3,451 people (21.4%) relative to the 2021 Census tally of 16,101 people. That adjustment incorporates the ABS Estimated Resident Population of 19,552 recorded as of June 2025 alongside 684 validated new addresses identified following the Census. Consequently, local density reaches 24,440 persons per square kilometer, placing the precinct in the top 10% nationwide across locations assessed by AreaSearch and highlighting intense demand for local space.

With a 21.4% expansion since the 2021 census, Southbank - East outpaced both the state benchmark (9.5%) and nationwide levels, establishing itself as a key regional growth hotspot. This demographic rise was predominantly powered by net overseas arrivals, which accounted for roughly 91.5% of overall population additions in recent times. Projections generated by ABS/Geoscience Australia released in 2024 (using 2022 as a baseline) are applied by AreaSearch across SA2 locations. Where specific SA2 areas lack coverage from this series, AreaSearch incorporates the VIC State Government's Regional/LGA projections published in 2023, utilizing a weighted aggregation model to translate LGA growth trends to the SA2 level. The resulting age-cohort growth trajectories from these aggregations are likewise applied to all districts for the years 2032 to 2041. Based on these projected demographic patterns, Southbank - East is forecast to experience standout growth placing in the top 10 percent of national areas, expanding by 9,449 persons to 2041 according to the latest annual ERP population numbers, which equates to an overall gain of 48.3% across the 16 years.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the Southbank - East SA2?
Total population for the Southbank - East SA2 was estimated to be approximately 19,552 as at Aug 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 19,552 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the Southbank - East SA2 changed since 2021?
The southbank - east sa2 has added approximately 3,451 people and shown a 21.43% increase from the 16,101 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the Southbank - East SA2?
The population density in the Southbank - East SA2 is estimated at 24,440 persons per square kilometer based on the latest population estimate.
How much has the population grown over the past 10 years in the Southbank - East SA2?
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Southbank - East SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 5.2% per annum.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the Southbank - East SA2?
Population growth in the Southbank - East SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (91.5%), Natural increase (8.5%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 91.5% of overall population gains.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Southbank - East

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1,756 new dwellings have been approved in Southbank - East over the past five years, an average of 351 a year. That places the area in the 90th percentile for residential development activity nationally, about 18 approvals per 1,000 residents a year. Of the 351 dwellings approved in the latest reporting year, 0% were detached houses and the rest townhouses or apartments. Figures come from ABS building approvals aggregated to this SA2 boundary and are updated monthly as the ABS releases them.

Detail

Residential building approvals in Southbank - East have tracked at an annual rate of about 351, delivering a total of 1,756 homes over the past 5 financial years (between FY-22 and FY-26). With approximately 1.3 new residents per year arriving per new home over the past 5 financial years (between FY-22 and FY-26), local supply remains well aligned with demand to underpin orderly market conditions, while new dwellings carry an average construction value of $502,000. In addition, $16.7 million in commercial approvals have been logged during this financial year, pointing to a moderate volume of non-residential development activity.

Construction intensity in Southbank - East is relatively elevated when benchmarked against Greater Melbourne (standing 19.0% above regional average per person over the 5 year period), which helps maintain purchaser options while bolstering established asset values. This pace sits substantially above broader Australian benchmarks, demonstrating solid developer appetite across the neighborhood. Furthermore, newly approved residential projects have consisted entirely of medium and high-density formats. An emphasis on compact dwellings provides attainable purchasing opportunities that appeal to downsizing owner-occupiers, property investors, and first-home buyers alike. Looking forward, Southbank - East is anticipated to welcome 9,449 residents through to 2041 (drawing on the most current AreaSearch quarterly estimate). If local building activity persists at existing volumes, future housing completions could fall short of resident inflows, potentially intensifying purchaser demand and reinforcing stronger upward pressure on values.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the Southbank - East SA2 recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the Southbank - East SA2 area has seen 940 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Southbank - East SA2's current population of 19,552 has been supported by 351 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the Southbank - East SA2's development activity compare to the broader region?
The Southbank - East SA2 has seen 1.91 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.86 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 0 people in the Southbank - East SA2, compared to one for every 121 in the broader region.
Is the Southbank - East SA2 keeping up with housing demand?
With the population expected to increase by 9,449 people by 2041, around 9,449 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels may be insufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 1.0 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 Southbank - East SA2?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Southbank - East SA2's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 351, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
How many dwellings will be needed to accommodate future population growth in the Southbank - East SA2?
The population in the Southbank - East SA2 is expected to grow by 9,449 people by 2041, necessitating approximately 9,449 new dwellings. This calculation is based on the current census average of 1.0 persons per dwelling in the area.
How does recent development compare to population growth in the Southbank - East SA2?
Over the past five years, the population in the Southbank - East SA2 has grown by approximately 16,724 people, while 1,756 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 9.5 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 Southbank - East SA2?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 351 approvals per year and a population of 19,552, there appears to be a supply shortfall relative to projected demand, presenting strong opportunities for residential developers. With the population expected to increase by 9,449 people by 2041, around 9,449 new dwellings will be necessary. Current approval trends may be insufficient to meet forecast demand, indicating strong development opportunities.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Southbank - East

Development applications around Southbank - East

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 24 applications for Southbank - East, 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 Southbank - East

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AreaSearch tracks 14 current infrastructure and development projects inside Southbank - East, worth an estimated $5.01 billion. A further 186 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $130.8 billion. 70 are already under construction and 58 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans residential development, communities, precincts & urban renewal and transport & logistics. 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

Major infrastructure developments, planning strategies, and public works exert a decisive influence on community growth and performance. AreaSearch has identified 43 active or planned projects expected to impact the precinct. Prominent initiatives include the Ian Potter State Theatre Refurbishment, The Fox: NGV Contemporary, Melbourne Arts Precinct Transformation, and Moray House, with key details provided below regarding 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 Southbank - East SA2?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Southbank - East SA2 include: Ian Potter State Theatre Refurbishment (Construction); The Fox: NGV Contemporary (Construction); Melbourne Arts Precinct Transformation (Construction); Moray House (Construction); and STH BNK by Beulah (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the Southbank - East SA2?
Infrastructure development impacting the Southbank - East SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Arts & Culture, and Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the Southbank - East SA2?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates substantial capital deployment exceeding $7.7 billion in projects that will impact the extended area, with a notable concentration of investment within the immediate the Southbank - East SA2 vicinity.
How does the Southbank - East SA2's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
With an infrastructure score in the top 40%, the Southbank - East SA2 demonstrates above-average development activity compared to national benchmarks.
Melbourne Arts Precinct Transformation
Category: Social Infrastructure
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2028

The $1.7 billion Melbourne Arts Precinct Transformation (MAPT) is a landmark cultural redevelopment overseen by MAP Co and delivered by Development Victoria. The project encompasses major upgrades to Arts Centre Melbourne's Theatres Building, the construction of The Fox: NGV Contemporary art gallery, and the creation of Laak Boorndap, an 18,000 sqm elevated urban garden. Construction is actively advancing across deep basement civil packages, with overall completion scheduled for 2028.

Social Infrastructure

The Fox: NGV Contemporary
Category: Arts & Culture
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Set to be Australia's largest gallery dedicated to contemporary art and design, The Fox: NGV Contemporary will span 30,000 square metres including more than 13,000 square metres of public exhibition space. Designed by Angelo Candalepas and Associates with a team of 20 leading architecture and engineering firms, the building will feature dramatic arched entries, a colossal 40-metre-high spherical orientating hall (the omphalos) and a dual-level rooftop terrace and sculpture garden with views over Melbourne. The gallery is the centrepiece of the Victorian Government's 1.7 billion dollar Melbourne Arts Precinct Transformation, which also delivers the 18,000 square metre Laak Boorndap urban garden and major upgrades to Arts Centre Melbourne's Theatres Building.The former Carlton United Breweries building on the site was deconstructed in 2024, with 95 per cent of materials diverted from landfill. Lendlease was appointed head contractor in March 2025 and is delivering the gallery alongside part of the Laak Boorndap deck structure and precinct services. Piling works are progressing on the site, with construction expected to support around 11,000 jobs across the wider precinct project. The gallery is targeted for completion in 2028.

Arts & Culture

Ian Potter State Theatre Refurbishment
Category: Arts & Culture
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A major refurbishment of the heritage-listed State Theatre at Arts Centre Melbourne, renamed the Ian Potter State Theatre following a philanthropic donation from the Ian Potter Foundation. The first significant upgrade since the venue opened in 1984, the works expand the Theatres Building footprint by 16 percent and include new lifts and accessible seating across all three levels, full replacement of seating, refreshed interiors honouring John Truscott's original design, improved acoustics, new state-of-the-art lighting, sound and broadcast technology, and upgraded heating, cooling and fire protection systems.The project also delivers a doubled-size loading dock, a new flexible rehearsal space the same size as the State Theatre stage with an adjoining function room, a new accessible stage door, two new hospitality outlets opening onto the Laak Boorndap urban garden, and four new wheelchair accessible amenities plus two all-gender amenities in the foyers. Construction commenced in March 2024 with Lendlease as principal contractor and NH Architects leading the design. The theatre is now scheduled to reopen in October 2026, six months ahead of the original schedule, as the first completed milestone of the wider 1.7 billion dollar Melbourne Arts Precinct Transformation. My Fair Lady will be the first major musical to perform in the refurbished venue from November 2026, with The Australian Ballet and Opera Australia returning as resident companies.

Arts & Culture

BLVD Residences at Melbourne Square
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

74-storey residential tower with 602 apartments, part of the $3 billion Melbourne Square precinct. Features resort-style amenities including pools, gyms, saunas, co-working spaces, and 3,745m2 of public parkland. Designed by Cox Architecture with interiors by CARR. Pursuing WELL certification for wellbeing and sustainability.

Residential Development

Moray House
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

56-storey residential tower on an island site at 42 Moray Street, Southbank, comprising 305 apartments across one, two, and three-bedroom configurations plus two double-storey penthouses. The 180-metre tower includes eight levels of commercial office and co-working space, a hotel-grade reception, ground floor cafe and bar, and two floors of wellness amenities including a day spa, yoga room, pool, gym, private dining rooms, residents' lounges, and outdoor terraces. Designed by Rothelowman architects with interiors by David Hicks.Demolition of the former Salvo head office was completed in late 2024/early 2025, with construction now underway and completion targeted for early 2027.

Residential Development

Verde Arts Precinct
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Verde Arts Precinct is an exclusive 24-level residential development featuring 173 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments in the heart of Southbank. Designed by Bruce Henderson Architects, the project features a distinctive glass facade and premium amenities including a hotel-style lobby with concierge, co-working spaces, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic city views. Strategically located adjacent to the new Anzac Station, it offers high-end urban living with seamless connectivity to the Melbourne CBD and the surrounding arts and culture district.

Residential Development

Greenline Project
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The Greenline Project is a transformational 4km urban renewal initiative creating a continuous promenade along the north bank of the Yarra River (Birrarung). Connecting five precincts from Birrarung Marr to Saltwater Wharf, the first major stage at Birrarung Marr is complete while planning and detailed design advance for the central riverfront sections. Delivered by the City of Melbourne in partnership with design studios ASPECT Studios and TCL, the project integrates native habitat restoration and Indigenous cultural design.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

The Carter Building
Category: Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The Carter Building is a $300 million luxury mixed-use development at 448 St Kilda Road, Melbourne. The 17-storey landmark, designed by Kerry Hill Architects (KHA), features a saw-cut bluestone facade inspired by the city's heritage buildings. It comprises 54 premium private residences across the upper floors and a 107-room five-star COMO Hotels and Resorts property on the lower levels - marking COMO's first appearance in Melbourne and second in Australia. Residents and guests enjoy world-class amenities including the COMO Shambhala wellness centre, a 20-metre indoor lap pool, gym, sauna, golf simulator, and concierge services.The ground level features a fine-dining restaurant, cafe, and bar curated by COMO. Construction commenced in August 2025, with the hotel and residences slated to open in early 2028.

Precincts & Urban Renewal

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Southbank - East

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15,738 residents of Southbank - East are employed, from a labour force of 16,114. Unemployment sits at 2.3%, with participation at 86.5%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 7.0% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth, so in an area growing as fast as this one it understates the likely rise in local jobs. 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 resident workforce in Southbank - East is exceptionally qualified and heavily weighted toward professional industries, recording an unemployment rate of only 2.3% and an estimated 3.6% in employment growth across the preceding twelve months. As of March 2026, 15,738 residents are gainfully employed, with the local jobless rate sitting 2.4% below the Greater Melbourne benchmark of 4.8%, while labor market participation is unusually elevated (86.5% compared to Greater Melbourne's 70.1%). Furthermore, Census records indicated that a notable 45.0% of local workers operated from home, though the influence of Covid-19 lockdown restrictions should be taken into account.

Local workers are predominantly engaged across professional & technical, accommodation & food, and finance & insurance. Specialization is especially pronounced within professional & technical, where the local concentration reaches 1.9 times the regional level. By comparison, health care & social assistance exhibits lower engagement at 8.5% against the 14.2% regional standard. A recorded ratio of 0.8 workers for each resident at the Census reflects an above-average volume of employment situated within the immediate locality. Analysis by AreaSearch of SALM and ABS data shows that over the 12 months to March 2026, employment grew by 3.6% alongside a 3.8% rise in the overall labor pool, which pushed the unemployment rate up by 0.2 percentage points. Across Greater Melbourne over the same interval, employment expanded by 2.1%, the workforce widened by 2.3%, and unemployment similarly lifted by 0.2 percentage points. Looking at longer-term trends, national employment projections released by Jobs and Skills Australia in Mar-26 provide a framework for evaluating local industry trajectory. These five- and ten-year federal forecasts, when applied across the district's industry distribution, outline expected workforce expansion. Nationally, total employment is projected to expand by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, with performance varying widely by sector. Calibrating these sector forecasts against the employment structure of Southbank - East suggests local job opportunities could increase by 7.0% over five years and 13.9% over ten years (note that this modeling represents an illustrative weighted extrapolation and does not incorporate local population forecasts).

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the Southbank - East SA2?
As of March 2026, the Southbank - East SA2 has approximately 15,738 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.3%. 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 Southbank - East SA2's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the Southbank - East SA2 stands at 2.3%, which is 2.4 percentage points below Greater Melbourne's rate of 4.8%. 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 Southbank - East SA2?
The employment landscape in the Southbank - East SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are professional & technical (19.2% of employment), accommodation & food (11.4%), and finance & insurance (9.0%). Other significant employers include health care & social assistance and retail trade.
How has employment changed recently in the Southbank - East SA2?
Over the past year to March 2026, the Southbank - East SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has rise. By comparison, Greater Melbourne saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
What is the workforce participation rate in the Southbank - East SA2?
The workforce participation rate in the Southbank - East SA2 is 86.5%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This high participation rate indicates strong workforce engagement and economic vitality. The local rate leading the Greater Melbourne average of 70.1%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
Which industries are over-represented in the Southbank - East SA2's employment market?
The southbank - east sa2 shows notable specialization in professional & technical, which employs 19.2% of the local workforce compared to 10.1% regionally. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 3 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
What are the employment growth prospects for the Southbank - East SA2?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the Southbank - East SA2's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 7.0% over the next five years and 13.9% 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 Southbank - East SA2 compare nationally?
The southbank - east 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 8.9% decline, ranking 34.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the Southbank - East SA2?
Skilled workers will find excellent opportunities in the Southbank - East SA2, with knowledge-intensive sectors comprising 46.3% of local employment. Key sectors for skilled workers include professional & technical (19.2%), finance & insurance (9.0%), and health care & social assistance (8.5%). With projected employment growth of 7.0% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Southbank - East

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Median household income in Southbank - East is $1,880 a week (about $98,000 a year), with median personal income at $1,152 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $58,169 a year against an average of $75,640. 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

The most recent postcode-level ATO figures compiled by AreaSearch for financial year 2023 indicate that earnings across the Southbank - East SA2 outstrip nationwide norms, recording a median of $58,169 alongside an average of $75,640. These figures compare favorably to Greater Melbourne's median of $57,688 and average of $75,164. Factoring in Wage Price Index growth of 9.62% since financial year 2023, updated estimates reach roughly $63,765 (median) and $82,917 (average) as of March 2026. The 2021 Census placed individual personal earnings at the 88th percentile nationally ($1,152 weekly), whereas total household income aligned with the 57th percentile.

The $1,500 - 2,999 earning bracket is the most prevalent, encompassing 39.1% of residents (7,644 people), closely tracking the broader metropolitan proportion of 32.8%. While accommodation outgoings absorb 19.3% of income, strong remuneration sustains disposable earnings at the 54th percentile, placing the district in the 9th decile on the SEIFA income measure.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the Southbank - East SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Southbank - East SA2 is approximately $63,765. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $58,169.
What is the average taxable income in the Southbank - East SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Southbank - East SA2 is approximately $82,917. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $75,640.
How does the median taxable income in the Southbank - East SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Southbank - East SA2 is approximately $63,765 compared to $63,238 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $58,169 and $57,688 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the Southbank - East SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Southbank - East SA2 is approximately $82,917 compared to $82,395 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $75,640 and $75,164 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the Southbank - East SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~39.1% / 7,644 persons) of the Southbank - East SA2's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the Southbank - East SA2 compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the Southbank - East SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 39.1% of the population. In comparison, Greater Melbourne's largest income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 32.8% of its population, according to the 2021 Census.
What is the median household income in the Southbank - East SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Southbank - East SA2 is $1,880/wk.
What is the median family income in the Southbank - East SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Southbank - East SA2 is $2,385/wk.
What is the median personal income in the Southbank - East SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Southbank - East SA2 is $1,152/wk.
How does the Southbank - East SA2's income rank nationally?
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-23, the Southbank - East SA2 had a median income among taxpayers of $58,169 with the average level standing at $75,640. This is well above average nationally and compares to levels of $57,688 and $75,164 across Greater Melbourne respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 9.62% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $63,765 (median) and $82,917 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the Southbank - East SA2?
The estimated disposable income in the Southbank - East SA2 is $6,576 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the Southbank - East SA2's disposable income compare to the region?
The southbank - east sa2's disposable income is $6,576 compared to $6,948 for Greater Melbourne, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Southbank - East

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Southbank - East had 8,532 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 0% detached houses and 98% apartments. 18% are owned with a mortgage, 71% rented and 12% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $408 a week and the median mortgage repayment $1,820 a month, a total housing cost higher than 85% of areas nationally. Rent absorbs 21.7% of household income here and mortgage repayments 22.3%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

According to the latest Census, the local housing landscape in Southbank - East featured virtually no separate houses, with 99.9% of stock classified as other dwellings (semi-detached, apartments, 'other' dwellings), contrasting sharply with the Melbourne metro profile of 67.9% houses and 32.1% other dwellings. Outright home ownership trailed metropolitan benchmarks at 11.7%, with remaining properties held under a mortgage (17.8%) or occupied by tenants (70.5%). The typical monthly home loan payment was $1,820, sitting below the Melbourne metro figure of $2,000, while median weekly rent was $408 compared to $390 across metropolitan Melbourne.

Benchmarked nationally, Southbank - East records lower mortgage repayments than the Australian median of $1,863, whereas rental costs exceed the national baseline of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the Southbank - East SA2?
In the Southbank - East SA2, 11.7% of homes are owned outright, 17.8% are owned with a mortgage, and 70.5% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the Southbank - East SA2 are houses?
According to the latest data, 0.0% of dwellings in the Southbank - East SA2 are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the Southbank - East SA2 are apartments or units?
In the Southbank - East SA2, 98.1% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 1.8% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the Southbank - East SA2?
Outright home ownership in the Southbank - East SA2 stands at 11.7%, compared to 30.7% in Greater Melbourne.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the Southbank - East SA2?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Southbank - East SA2 is $1,820, compared to $2,000 in Greater Melbourne.
What is the median weekly rent in the Southbank - East SA2?
The median weekly rent in the Southbank - East SA2 is $408, compared to $390 in Greater Melbourne.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the Southbank - East SA2?
In the Southbank - East SA2, 0.5% of rentals are $0-149/week, 21.1% are $150-349/week, 71.9% are $350-649/week, 4.7% are $650-949/week, and 1.8% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the Southbank - East SA2?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Southbank - East SA2 is $1,570, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the Southbank - East SA2?
In the Southbank - East SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 22.3% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 21.7% of their income on rent.
How crowded are homes in the Southbank - East SA2?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Southbank - East SA2 is 1.0, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the Southbank - East SA2 compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the Southbank - East SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 22.3% of income on repayments (vs 24.3% regionally), while renters spend 21.7% of income on rent (vs 20.5% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the Southbank - East SA2?
The dwelling mix in the Southbank - East SA2 consists of 0.0% detached houses, 1.8% semi-detached dwellings, 98.1% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the Southbank - East SA2?
Based on the area's tenure composition, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $1,569. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $1,820/month, and renters paying $1,767/month.
How affordable is housing in the Southbank - East SA2 relative to local incomes?
Housing in Southbank - East consumes approximately 19.3% of median household income ($8,140 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 Southbank - East SA2?
Development application data is not available for this area.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Southbank - East

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Southbank - East counted 8,532 households at the 2021 Census, an estimated 10,361 today, averaging 1.8 people each. 7% are couples with children, fewer than in 98% of areas nationally, against 30% couples without children. 43% of households are people living alone, and families average 0.4 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Family arrangements account for 43.3% of residences in the area, encompassing couples without children (30.1%), couples with children (7.2%), and single parent families (3.8%). Non-family living structures make up the remaining 56.7%, driven by lone person households at 42.6% alongside group households representing 14.0%. The local median household size stands at 1.8 people, noticeably smaller than the Greater Melbourne standard of 2.6.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the Southbank - East SA2?
As of the 2021 Census, the Southbank - East SA2 had 8,532 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 21.4% to an estimated 10,361 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median household size in the Southbank - East SA2 is 1.8 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Melbourne and reflects the area's household composition mix.
What types of households are most common?
Family households dominate at 43.3% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (42.6%), group households (14.0%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 3,694 family households, 7.2% are couples with children, 30.1% are couples without children at home, and 3.8% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the Southbank - East SA2 compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Greater Melbourne, the Southbank - East SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 42.6% (versus 24.8% regionally). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 43.3% compared to the regional 70.9%. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
What is the average family size?
Families in the Southbank - East SA2 have an average of 0.4 children, slightly below the Greater Melbourne average of 1.4. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
What are the marriage patterns in the Southbank - East SA2?
Marriage patterns reveal 26.3% of the adult population are currently married, while 65.0% have never married. This compares to 47.0% married and 38.0% never married across Greater Melbourne.
How significant are single-person households?
Single-person households represent 42.6% of all households in the Southbank - East SA2, higher than the regional average of 24.8%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Are shared living arrangements common?
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 14.0% of households, well below the Greater Melbourne average of 4.3%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
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EducationSchools & Education in Southbank - East

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65.4% of adults in Southbank - East hold a university qualification, including 39.1% with a bachelor degree and 22.7% with postgraduate qualifications, higher than 96% of areas nationally. A further 7.1% hold a vocational qualification. 1 school serves the area, with 340 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 1,140 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

Formal qualifications across Southbank - East substantially exceed state and nationwide standards, with 65.4% of residents aged 15+ holding university credentials, compared to 30.4% across Australia and 33.4% in VIC. This elevated educational profile positions the community exceptionally well for professional and knowledge-intensive industries. Bachelor degrees represent the largest cohort at 39.1%, accompanied by postgraduate qualifications (22.7%) and graduate diplomas (3.6%). Vocational training is held by 17.5% of residents aged 15+, divided between advanced diplomas (10.4%) and certificates (7.1%). Participation in study is remarkably elevated, with 31.0% of the local population currently engaged in formal learning.

Within this student cohort, 16.4% are undertaking tertiary studies, 2.1% are in primary education, and 1.3% are enrolled in secondary school.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the Southbank - East SA2 have university qualifications?
65.4% of people aged 15 and over in the Southbank - East SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 37.0% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the Southbank - East SA2 have no formal qualifications?
17.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Southbank - East SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.2% regionally.
How does the Southbank - East SA2's education level compare to national averages?
The southbank - east sa2 ranks in the 96th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
What types of qualifications are most common in the Southbank - East SA2?
The most common qualifications in the Southbank - East SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (39.1%), Postgraduate (22.7%), Advanced Diploma (10.4%).
What proportion of the Southbank - East SA2's population is currently attending educational institutions?
31.0% of the population in the Southbank - East SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, with 2.1% in primary school, 1.3% in secondary school, 16.4% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the Southbank - East SA2?
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Southbank - East SA2 is 1140, indicating above-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
How many schools are located within the Southbank - East SA2?
There are 1 schools within the Southbank - East SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 340 students.
What types of schools are available in the Southbank - East SA2?
The southbank - east sa2 includes 1 secondary school.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Southbank - East

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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Southbank - East

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Public transport in Southbank - East reaches 20 stops on 15 routes, timetabled for about 8,200 services a week. The typical home sits about 140 m from its nearest stop. Trams carry the largest share of public transport commuters. Households keep an average of 0.2 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 connectivity in Southbank - East is supported by 20 active transit stops catering to lightrail and buses. These stations are linked by 15 separate routes that collectively deliver 8,170 passenger services each week. Local accessibility is rated as excellent, with residents located an average distance of 141 meters from their nearest transit node. Given the precinct's residential focus, outward travel is common, with private vehicles serving as the primary commute mode at 32%, followed by 24% walking and 15% by train. Private vehicle access averages 0.2 per dwelling, below broader metropolitan levels, while 45.0% of residents worked remotely according to 2021 Census records (which may reflect prevailing COVID-19 settings).

Transit services operate at an average rate of 1,167 trips per day across the network, translating to roughly 408 weekly departures for each designated stop.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Southbank - East?
There are 20 public transport stops within the Southbank - East SA2.
How frequent are the transport services in Southbank - East?
the Southbank - East SA2 has 8,170 weekly trips across 15 routes, averaging 1,167 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Southbank - East?
On average, residential properties are 141 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Southbank - East

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82.4% of residents in Southbank - East report no long-term health condition, a healthier profile than 99% of areas nationally. 1.2% need daily assistance with core activities, and 56.6% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 2.8 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Health indicators across Southbank - East point to strong community outcomes, according to AreaSearch's evaluation of chronic illness and mortality metrics. Common medical ailments remain very infrequently reported across all age brackets, while private health insurance coverage is notably widespread at approximately 57% of the total population (~11,066 people). The two most prevalent health issues reported locally are mental health conditions and asthma, affecting 7.2 and 6.1% of residents, respectively. Concurrently, 82.4% of the population reported no chronic conditions, outperforming the Greater Melbourne average of 72.6%. The proportion of residents aged 65 and over sits at 4.9% (958 people), well below the 15.1% recorded across Greater Melbourne.

Health metrics for older demographics are exceptionally favorable, aligning closely with broader population benchmarks nationwide.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the Southbank - East SA2 have private health insurance?
Around 56.6% of people in the Southbank - East SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 56.7% in the broader region of Greater Melbourne.
What percentage of the population requires ongoing medical assistance in the Southbank - East SA2?
In the Southbank - East SA2, 1.2% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 5.5% of people in Greater Melbourne require similar assistance.
How prevalent is asthma in the Southbank - East SA2?
6.1% of people in the Southbank - East SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.3% of the population across Greater Melbourne is affected by asthma.
What percentage of people have diabetes in the Southbank - East SA2?
Diabetes affects 1.5% of the the Southbank - East SA2 population, while in the surrounding region, 4.1% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
What is the percentage of people with heart disease in the Southbank - East SA2?
1.1% of people in the Southbank - East SA2 have heart disease. Across the region of Greater Melbourne, 3.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the Southbank - East SA2 compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the Southbank - East SA2, 56.6% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Melbourne sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 56.7%.

Ancestry & LanguageCultural Diversity in Southbank - East

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65.8% of Southbank - East residents were born overseas and 52.6% speak a language other than English at home, more culturally diverse than 95% of areas nationally. The largest reported ancestries are Chinese (17.6%) and English (14.9%). Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Southbank - East demonstrates high cultural variety, with 52.6% of residents using a language other than English at home and 65.8% of the community born overseas. Christianity represents the most widely held religious affiliation, practiced by 30.0% of residents. The most noticeable divergence from metropolitan norms occurs in Hinduism, which accounts for 8.9% of the local population compared to 4.4% across Greater Melbourne. Regarding ancestral background (based on parental birthplace), the three most common ancestries in Southbank - East are Other at 19.8% (outstripping the 14.6% metropolitan baseline), Chinese at 17.6% (well above the 6.5% regional standard), and English at 14.9% (tracking lower than the 20.1% Greater Melbourne figure).

Distinct demographic variations are also evident across other communities: Spanish ancestry accounts for 1.2% locally (versus 0.4% regionally), Korean represents 1.9% (versus 0.3%), and Indian comprises 8.2% (versus 4.2%).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the Southbank - East SA2?
Southbank - East is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country, with 52.6% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 65.8% born overseas.
What is the most common religion in the Southbank - East SA2?
The main religion in Southbank - East was found to be Christianity, which makes up 30.0% of people in Southbank - East. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Hinduism, which comprises 8.9% of the population, compared to 4.4% across Greater Melbourne.
What are the top countries of origin in the Southbank - East SA2?
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Southbank - East are Other, comprising 19.8% of the population, which is substantially higher than the regional average of 14.6%, Chinese, comprising 17.6% of the population, which is substantially higher than the regional average of 6.5%, and English, comprising 14.9% of the population, which is notably lower than the regional average of 20.1%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Spanish is notably overrepresented at 1.2% of Southbank - East (vs 0.4% regionally), Korean at 1.9% (vs 0.3%) and Indian at 8.2% (vs 4.2%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
65.8% of the the Southbank - East SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 37.3% regionally.
What percentage of the the Southbank - East SA2 population speaks a language other than English at home?
52.6% of the population in the Southbank - East SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 35.9% in the wider region.
How many people in the Southbank - East SA2 identify as Australian Aboriginal?
0.4% of the the Southbank - East SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 0.5% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the Southbank - East SA2?
49.0% of the the Southbank - East SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 81.1% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Southbank - East

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The median resident of Southbank - East is 31, younger than 95% of areas nationally. 58.7% 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 demographic profile of Southbank - East is heavily weighted toward pre-family cohorts. Based on updated estimates as of August 2026, 62.9% of the population consists of young to middle aged adults (25 - 44), compared to 32.1% across Greater Melbourne, while middle aged and young retiree cohorts (45 - 64) represent 11.3% against a regional benchmark of 22.3%. Consequently, the median age is estimated at 31, matching the 2021 Census figure and sitting 6 years below the Greater Melbourne median of 37 recorded during the same Census, while the national Census median was 38.

Looking to 2041, young to middle aged adults are forecast to drive the majority of growth, expanding by 4,939 residents (40%) to reach a total of 17,245. Meanwhile, the fastest relative demographic expansion is expected among retiree and elderly cohorts (65+), increasing 120% to reach 2,111.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the Southbank - East SA2?
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Southbank - East SA2 at 31 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 31 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
How does the Southbank - East SA2's median age compare to broader areas?
At an estimated 31 years as at August 2026, Southbank - East is 6 years younger than the Greater Melbourne 2021 Census average (37 years) and 7 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the Southbank - East SA2?
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Southbank - East SA2 compared to the Greater Melbourne region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 42.6% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the Southbank - East SA2?
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Southbank - East SA2 compared to the Greater Melbourne region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 2.5% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
Yes, certain age groups in the Southbank - East SA2 show significant variance compared to the Greater Melbourne region. The most over-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (42.6% vs 16.4%). The most under-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (0.4% vs 2.1%) and 5-14 year-olds (2.5% vs 11.8%).
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the Southbank - East SA2?
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 4.7% of the population in the Southbank - East SA2 as at August 2026.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the Southbank - East SA2?
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 4.9% of the population in the Southbank - East SA2 as at August 2026.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Southbank - East

Data currency Refreshed

9 of 14 data sections on this page were updated within the last 12 months — the newest current to Sep 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) Aug 2026 last month 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 Aug 2026, with the 2021 Census supplying the small-area baseline.
Age profile ABS, Geoscience Australia, State governments Annual Aug 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Age cohorts are re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections, current to Aug 2026. Each cohort is held as a Census baseline and a current estimate.
Development & approvals ABS, GNAF Monthly (ABS approvals) Aug 2026 last month headline measures · Jul 2026 baseline
Property sales & rents Valuer General, Rental Board, ABS Weekly sales, quarterly rents Sep 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 Sep 2026.
Infrastructure projects Infrastructure Australia, State agencies, Local governments Daily Aug 2026 last month all 14 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 Aug 2026.
Employment ABS, DEWR, JSA Quarterly (ABS SALM) Mar 2026 6 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 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Transport ABS, State Transport Departments Each timetable release Jul 2026 2 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Services & amenities Provider directories, ACECQA Continuous Jul 2026 2 months ago 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 — 684 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for Aug 2026, not a 2021 count (16,101 at the 2021 Census → 19,552 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 Aug 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 (206041509). 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 Southbank - East 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 Southbank - East 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 Southbank - East 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 (Aug 2026), property sales & rents (Sep 2026), infrastructure projects (Aug 2026) and services & amenities (Jul 2026). Built on a Census baseline but carrying newer measures on top: population (to Aug 2026), age profile (to Aug 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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