Area profile · Greater Melbourne
Sunbury has an estimated 15,943 residents, up 16.6% since the 2021 Census, with 8 projects tracked in Sunbury.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Sunbury Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 34 kilometres northwest from Melbourne CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at around 15,943 as of Aug 2026, an increase of 2,272 people (16.6%) since the 2021 Census, when 13,671 people were recorded. This estimate reflects an estimated resident population of 15,364 from the ABS as of June 2025 and 1,201 validated new addresses since the Census date. The area has a fairly standard age composition, with a median age of 39, and consists largely of family households and couples with children. Population growth is described as moderate, alongside development activity and population drivers well above average.
Sunbury’s housing and workforce profile features a strong representation of detached houses, high levels of mortgaged homes, and a notable construction employment base, as well as elevated logistics and transport employment. Household size is above average. The area’s natural landscapes, outdoor activities, historical landmarks, vineyards and local wineries, heritage sites and museums contribute to its local character.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 10,282 in 2001 and 15,364 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 15,943 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 35 to 44, 13.8%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 36.2%.
Sunbury ranks in the 87th percentile nationally for development activity and the 74th for income.
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 Sunbury is $518 a week, up 3.0% over 12 months to Sep 2025 and 12% below Greater Melbourne.
12% below Greater Melbourne on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $345 in 2016, $521 in 2025; Units (dashed orange line): $304 in 2016, $441 in 2025. The latest is to Sep 2025.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $518 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +3.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, houses | $521 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +5.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, units | $441 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +3.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Sunbury | $511 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Sunbury, over 12 months | +2.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Melbourne - North West | $537 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Melbourne - North West, over 12 months | +3.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Greater Melbourne | $587 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Greater Melbourne, over 12 months | +4.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, VIC | $560 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, VIC, over 12 months | +4.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 8 tracked applications: 0 approved, 8 under assessment, 0 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 8 projects in Sunbury (4 under construction) and 153 more in the surrounding area.
A neighbourhood retail and civic centre spanning 9,250sqm, anchored by a full-line Woolworths supermarket with specialty stores, KingSwim…
A large-scale house and land estate in Sunbury, Victoria, planned to eventually host over 1000 families.
The Sunbury Community Hospital is a major expansion and upgrade of the former Sunbury Day Hospital into a comprehensive community health…
Residential estate on former farmland owned by same family for seven decades. Stages 5-7 under construction by Newearth Constructions.
Kimberley is a gas-free masterplanned community atop Sunburys escarpment, offering 2000 residential lots with 7-star energy efficient…
New Coles supermarket anchoring the Diggers Rest Town Centre within the Bloomdale community, together with specialty retail tenancies and…
Nestled on the picturesque banks of Jacksons Creek, Everley is a masterplanned residential community enhancing the landscape of Sunbury…
Major redevelopment of Sunbury Square Shopping Centre now complete.
Transformation of Buildings 22 and 24 at historic Sunbury Asylum site on Jackson's Hill into arts, community and cultural hub.
A $152 million two-storey aquatic and leisure centre under construction on Beattys Road, Fraser Rise within the Plumpton Precinct Structure…
A permit-approved mixed-use development comprising 5 convenience retail/commercial superlots and 34 residential lots on 5.636 hectares with…
Comprehensive school modernisation with $13.4 million investment from Victoria's 2022-23 state budget.
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 63 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2024 1, 2025 2, 2026 20, 2027 11, 2028 13, 2029 6, 2030 5, 2031 0, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 3, 2036 1. 36 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 8 substantial development applications lodged in and around Sunbury over the period covered (about 1.2 years), 6 in the last 12 months; 8 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2025 (part year) 2, 2026 (to Oct) 6.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 8 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 1.2 years) | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 6 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 16.8 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 236 | ABS building approvals | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Applications under assessment | 8 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 1.2 years) |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Sunbury SA2 include: East Village Sunbury (Construction); Canterbury Hills Estate (Construction); Sunbury Community Hospital (Completed); Alexander Park Estate (Construction); and Diggers Rest Town Centre Coles Supermarket (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Sunbury SA2 spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Retail, and Residential Development, among others.
The long-run outlook for infrastructure is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Sunbury among the top 13% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Sunbury SA2 area has seen 475 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Sunbury SA2's current population of 15,943 has been supported by 236 approvals on average over recent years.
The Sunbury SA2 has seen 16.8 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 8.7 approvals in Greater Melbourne. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 64 people in the Sunbury SA2, compared to one for every 121 in Greater Melbourne.
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Sunbury SA2's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 236, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the Sunbury SA2 has grown by approximately 1,506 people, while 1,180 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 1.3 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.
Population growth drivers in Sunbury are above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 15,943 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +16.6% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 123 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 29th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +2.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 13,671 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 2,272 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +3.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +3.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 129.55 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Sunbury SA2 was estimated to be approximately 15,943 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 15,364 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The sunbury sa2 has added approximately 2,272 people and shown a 16.62% increase from the 13,671 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Sunbury SA2 is estimated at 123 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Sunbury SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.6% per annum.
Population growth in the Sunbury SA2 is driven by: Interstate migration (63.8%), Natural increase (20.6%), Overseas migration (15.6%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 63.8% of overall population gains.
Sunbury's population aligns closely with national norms in age terms.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 39 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 46th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 15.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 18.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 26.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 52.4% | 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 | 39 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 6.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 12.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 13.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 13.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 13.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 12.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 12.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 9.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 4.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Sunbury SA2 at 39 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 39 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 39 years as at August 2026, Sunbury is 2 years older than the Greater Melbourne 2021 Census average (37 years) and comparable to the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Sunbury SA2 compared to the Greater Melbourne region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 12.8% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Sunbury SA2 compared to the Greater Melbourne region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 13.1% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Sunbury SA2 show significant variance compared to Greater Melbourne. The most under-represented age group is 85+ year-olds (1.3% vs 2.1%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 18.9% of the population in the Sunbury SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 15.6% of the population in the Sunbury SA2 as at August 2026.
The area exhibits notably strong income performance, ranking higher than 74% of areas assessed nationally through AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $64,032 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 69th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $74,568 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,106 | 2021 Census, weekly | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $850 | 2021 Census, weekly | 59th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 28.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,315 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 15.7% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Sunbury SA2 is approximately $68,258. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $64,032.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Sunbury SA2 is approximately $79,489. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $74,568.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Sunbury SA2 is approximately $68,258 compared to $63,783 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $64,032 and $59,834 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Sunbury SA2 is approximately $79,489 compared to $83,612 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $74,568 and $78,435 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Sunbury SA2's households (~36.2% / 1,686 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Sunbury SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 36.2% of households. In comparison, Greater Melbourne's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 32.8% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Sunbury SA2 is $2,106/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Sunbury SA2 is $2,315/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Sunbury SA2 is $850/wk.
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the Sunbury SA2 had a median income among taxpayers of $64,032 with the average level standing at $74,568. This is above the national average and compares to levels of $59,834 and $78,435 across Greater Melbourne respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.6% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $68,258 (median) and $79,489 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Sunbury SA2 is $7,977 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The sunbury sa2's disposable income is $7,977 compared to $6,948 for Greater Melbourne, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis places Sunbury well above average for employment performance across multiple indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.8% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 70.4% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 8,638 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 12,762 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 8,889 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Sunbury SA2 has approximately 8,638 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.8%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Sunbury SA2 stands at 2.8%, which is 2.1 percentage points below Greater Melbourne's rate of 4.9%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Sunbury SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are construction (15.3% of employment), health care & social assistance (12.2%), and retail trade (10.3%). Other significant employers include education & training and transport, postal & warehousing.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Sunbury SA2 has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Greater Melbourne saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the Sunbury SA2 is 70.4%, 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%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Melbourne.
The sunbury sa2 shows notable specialisation in construction, which employs 15.3% of the local workforce compared to 9.7% across Greater Melbourne. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The sunbury 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 2.6% decline, ranking 28th out of 37 regions nationally.
The educational profile of Sunbury 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 | 14.2% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 3.8% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 20.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 28.1% | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.6% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 12.6% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 38.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 29.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 4.4% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 10.1% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 8.6% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
20.6% of people aged 15 and over in the Sunbury SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 37.0% in Greater Melbourne.
38.7% of people aged 15 and over in the Sunbury SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.2% in Greater Melbourne.
The sunbury sa2 ranks in the 61th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Sunbury SA2 are: Certificate (28.1%), Bachelor Degree (14.2%), Advanced Diploma (12.6%).
29.2% of the population in the Sunbury SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 10.1% in primary school, 8.6% in secondary school, 4.4% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Sunbury SA2 is 1032, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 7 schools within the Sunbury SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 3,875 students.
The sunbury sa2 includes 3 primary schools, 3 secondary schools, 1 combined school.
Sunbury features high concentrations of family households and couples with children but relatively few lone person households, with a larger average household size than Greater Melbourne.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.8 people | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 16.2% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 41.0% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 27.4% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 12.4% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 1.8% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 4,658 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 5,432 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 81.9% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.7 per family | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Sunbury SA2 had 4,658 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 16.6% to an estimated 5,432 households today.
The average household size in the Sunbury SA2 is 2.8 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Melbourne and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 81.9% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (16.2%), group households (1.8%), and other household types (0.1%).
Of the 3,815 family households, couples with children account for 41.0% of all households, couples without children at home 27.4%, and single parent families 12.4%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Melbourne, the Sunbury SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Family households are notably over-represented at 81.9% (versus 70.9% in Greater Melbourne). Conversely, lone person households are under-represented at 16.2% compared to 24.8% in Greater Melbourne. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the Sunbury SA2 have an average of 1.7 children, slightly above the Greater Melbourne average of 1.4. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 50.5% of the adult population are currently married, while 35.5% have never married. This compares to 47.0% married and 38.0% never married across Greater Melbourne.
Single-person households represent 16.2% of all households in the Sunbury SA2, notably lower than the average for Greater Melbourne of 24.8%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 1.8% of households, below the Greater Melbourne average of 4.3%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
Sunbury 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 | 16.5% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 9.4% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 90.6% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 91.3% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 83.5% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.0% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
Sunbury was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 83.5% of its population born in Australia, 91.3% being citizens, and 90.6% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Sunbury was found to be Christianity, which makes up 52.8% of people in Sunbury. This compares to 43.0% across Greater Melbourne.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Sunbury are Australian, comprising 27.3% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Melbourne's 18.4%, English, comprising 26.7% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Melbourne's 20.1%, and Irish, comprising 9.0% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Maltese is notably overrepresented at 3.1% of Sunbury (vs 1.1% across Greater Melbourne), Polish at 1.0% (vs 0.8%) and Italian at 5.6% (vs 5.2%).
16.5% of the Sunbury SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 37.3% across Greater Melbourne.
9.4% of the population in the Sunbury SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 35.9% in Greater Melbourne.
1.0% of the Sunbury SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 0.5% in Greater Melbourne.
91.3% of the Sunbury SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 81.1% in Greater Melbourne.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Sunbury 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 | 14.1% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 34.3% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 98.8% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,789 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 48th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 51.6% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 0.8% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $371 | 2021 Census, weekly | 51st percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 17.6% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 20th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 19.6% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 12th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Sunbury SA2, 34.3% of homes are owned outright, 51.6% are owned with a mortgage, and 14.1% are rented.
According to the latest data, 98.8% of dwellings in the Sunbury SA2 are houses.
In the Sunbury SA2, 0.4% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 0.8% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Sunbury SA2 stands at 34.3%, compared to 30.7% in Greater Melbourne.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Sunbury SA2 is $1,789, compared to $2,000 in Greater Melbourne.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Sunbury SA2 is $1,149, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Sunbury SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 19.6% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 17.6% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Sunbury SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Sunbury SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 19.6% of income on repayments (vs 24.3% in Greater Melbourne), while renters spend 17.6% of income on rent (vs 20.5% in Greater Melbourne).
The dwelling mix in the Sunbury SA2 consists of 98.8% detached houses, 0.8% semi-detached dwellings, 0.4% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Sunbury consumes approximately 12.6% of median household income ($9,119 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Sunbury show attached dwellings contributing 11% of approvals compared to 1% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 89% of applications versus 99% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Density increases remain below national trends.
Health performance in Sunbury 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 | 54.1% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 54th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 65.9% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 5.8% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 71.5% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.5% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
Around 54.1% of people in the Sunbury SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 56.5% in Greater Melbourne.
In the Sunbury SA2, 5.8% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.5% of people in Greater Melbourne require similar assistance.
10.0% of people in the Sunbury SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.3% of the population across Greater Melbourne is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.3% of the Sunbury SA2 population, while in Greater Melbourne, 4.1% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.2% of people in the Sunbury SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Melbourne,3.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Sunbury SA2, 54.1% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Melbourne sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 56.5%.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 49 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 49th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 66 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 2,038 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 51st percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 233 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 5 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.9 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 24.7% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 66 public transport stops within the Sunbury SA2.
The Sunbury SA2 has 2,038 weekly trips across 5 routes, averaging 291 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 436 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 1.3 km away and the nearest child care centre 1.4 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 66 stops nearby, 2,038 weekly trips, access rating 49 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 22 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 2.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 2.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest dentist | 2.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 2.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 2.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 2.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 2.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 2.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 3.0 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 2 long day care centres with 274 places in Sunbury, about 3.7 children aged 0-4 per place.
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05Reports and tools
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Sunbury among the top 13% of areas assessed nationwide.
Sunbury has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 40th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Sunbury is $518 a week, +3.0% over 12 months to Sep 2025.
Population growth drivers in Sunbury are above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Sunbury's population aligns closely with national norms in age terms.
The area exhibits notably strong income performance, ranking higher than 74% of areas assessed nationally through AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis places Sunbury well above average for employment performance across multiple indicators.
The educational profile of Sunbury ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
Sunbury features high concentrations of family households and couples with children but relatively few lone person households, with a larger average household size than Greater Melbourne.
Sunbury ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Sunbury is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Sunbury is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Sunbury has an estimated 15,943 residents, up 16.6% since the 2021 Census, with 8 projects tracked in Sunbury.
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 Sunbury.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2025, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Aug 2026. Housing, households and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 14 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (210041240). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Aug 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Sunbury 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 Sunbury 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.
