Area profile · Greater Melbourne
Sunshine has an estimated 10,252 residents, up 8.5% since the 2021 Census, with 8 projects tracked in Sunshine.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Sunshine Statistical Area (Lv2), located 12 kilometres west-northwest from Melbourne CBD, is estimated by AreaSearch to have approximately 10,252 residents as of Aug 2026. Since the 2021 Census count of 9,445 people, the population is estimated to have increased by 807 people (8.5%). This estimate combines the ABS Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of 10,151 as of June 2025 with 295 validated new addresses since the Census date.
Sunshine is characterised by a high proportion of residents born overseas, a strong semi-detached presence, above-average renting, a notable 25 to 34yo demographic, an elevated administrative employment base and strong service amenity. Young adults, many in group households, are prominent, and the area is highly culturally diverse. Its population is growing at a moderate pace. Sunshine is also recognised for its multicultural community, varied shops, restaurants and community events, parks, pathways and recreational facilities, and industrial heritage visible in local heritage sites and buildings.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 7,980 in 2001 and 10,151 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 10,252 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 25 to 34, 20.9%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 31.1%.
Sunshine ranks in the 99th percentile nationally for transport & access and the 92nd for cultural diversity.
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 Sunshine is $467 a week, up 6.6% over 12 months to Sep 2025 and 20% below Greater Melbourne.
20% below Greater Melbourne on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $331 in 2016, $491 in 2025; Units (dashed orange line): $294 in 2016, $424 in 2025. The latest is to Sep 2025.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $467 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +6.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, houses | $491 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +5.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, units | $424 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 | +5.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Brimbank | $482 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Brimbank, over 12 months | +6.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Melbourne - West | $511 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Melbourne - West, over 12 months | +2.5% | 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 |
AreaSearch tracks 8 projects in Sunshine (6 under construction) and 117 more in the surrounding area.
A major transformation of Sunshine Station into a transport superhub and the complete rebuild of Albion Station as part of Melbourne…
Australia's first museum dedicated to preserving and sharing the story of Vietnamese refugee settlement in Australia.
Long-term Victorian Government urban renewal and transport precinct program centred on Sunshine Station, Sunshine CBD and Albion Quarter.
The Sunshine Priority Precinct Vision 2050 is a 30-year urban renewal strategy establishing Sunshine as the capital of Melbourne's west.
A 27-kilometre heavy rail link connecting Melbourne Airport to the Melbourne CBD via Sunshine Station and the Metro Tunnel.
The Victorian Government is investing 1.85 billion AUD to deliver 100 accessible, low-floor Next Generation G Class trams and…
Stage 1 of the Melbourne Airport Rail connecting passengers from West Footscray to Albion.
Integrated early years and community hub replacing North Sunshine Kindergarten and Dempster Park Hall.
Completed mixed-use apartment building in Sunshine town centre, delivered circa 2014 with ground-floor retail tenancies and upper-level…
Approved mixed-use masterplanned development designed by Buchan on a 2.18-hectare infill site.
A new, modern and accessible Albion Station will be rebuilt slightly east of its current location as part of Melbourne Airport Rail Stage…
LUMA is a masterplanned community being developed on the 4.7-hectare former City West Water site.
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 47 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2024 2, 2025 6, 2026 9, 2027 10, 2028 5, 2029 5, 2030 7, 2031 1, 2032 0, 2033 1, 2034 0, 2035 1. 28 have no completion year.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS building approvals | 8.1 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 80th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 81 | ABS building approvals | 74th percentile nationally |
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Infrastructure development impacting the Sunshine SA2 spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Arts & Culture, among others.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, recent residential development output has been above average within Sunshine when compared nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Sunshine SA2 area has seen 274 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Sunshine SA2's current population of 10,252 has been supported by 81 approvals on average over recent years.
The Sunshine SA2 has seen 8.1 approval 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 111 people in the Sunshine 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 Sunshine SA2's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 81, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the Sunshine SA2 has grown by approximately 51 people, while 406 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 0.1 people added for each new dwelling approval. This low ratio indicates housing supply is outpacing population growth, potentially creating market oversupply.
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.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Sunshine reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 10,252 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +8.5% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Population density | 2,167 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 9,445 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 807 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 4.73 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Sunshine SA2 was estimated to be approximately 10,252 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 10,151 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The sunshine sa2 has added approximately 807 people and shown a 8.54% increase from the 9,445 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Sunshine SA2 is estimated at 2,167 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Sunshine SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.1% per annum.
Population growth in the Sunshine SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (88.6%), Natural increase (11.4%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 88.6% of overall population gains.
Sunshine's population is younger than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 35 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 21st percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 13.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 16.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 32.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 58.8% | 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 | 35 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 10.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 20.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 16.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 9.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 8.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 3.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Sunshine SA2 at 35 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 35 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 35 years as at August 2026, Sunshine is 2 years younger than the Greater Melbourne 2021 Census average (37 years) and 3 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Sunshine SA2 compared to the Greater Melbourne region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 20.9% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Sunshine SA2 compared to the Greater Melbourne region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 3.4% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the Sunshine SA2 is broadly in line with Greater Melbourne.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 16.4% of the population in the Sunshine SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 13.3% of the population in the Sunshine SA2 as at August 2026.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $58,582 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 47th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $68,199 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,566 | 2021 Census, weekly | 39th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $706 | 2021 Census, weekly | 29th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 20.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,806 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 24.7% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Sunshine SA2 is approximately $62,448. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $58,582.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Sunshine SA2 is approximately $72,700. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $68,199.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Sunshine SA2 is approximately $62,448 compared to $63,783 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $58,582 and $59,834 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Sunshine SA2 is approximately $72,700 compared to $83,612 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $68,199 and $78,435 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Sunshine SA2's households (~31.1% / 1,045 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Sunshine SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 31.1% 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 Sunshine SA2 is $1,566/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Sunshine SA2 is $1,806/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Sunshine SA2 is $706/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the Sunshine SA2 is lower than average on a national basis, with the median assessed at $58,582 while the average income stands at $68,199. This contrasts to Greater Melbourne's figures of a median income of $59,834 and an average income of $78,435. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.6% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $62,448 (median) and $72,700 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Sunshine SA2 is $5,613 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The sunshine sa2's disposable income is $5,613 compared to $6,948 for Greater Melbourne, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Sunshine shows employment indicators that trail behind approximately 70% of regions assessed across Australia.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 7.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 70.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 5,351 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 11,515 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 5,770 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Sunshine SA2 has approximately 5,351 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 7.3%. The elevated unemployment rate suggests challenging labour market conditions. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Sunshine SA2 stands at 7.3%, which is 2.3 percentage points above Greater Melbourne's rate of 4.9%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Sunshine SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (13.6% of employment), education & training (9.1%), and retail trade (8.7%). The relatively diverse employment base, with the top three sectors comprising 31.4% of jobs, provides economic resilience. Other significant employers include manufacturing and accommodation & food.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Sunshine 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 Sunshine SA2 is 70.2%, 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 sunshine sa2 shows notable specialisation in transport, postal & warehousing, which employs 8.0% of the local workforce compared to 5.2% across Greater Melbourne. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The sunshine sa2's employment market shows weaker performance compared to most areas nationally. This suggests the need for targeted economic development initiatives. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 2.6% decline, ranking 28th out of 37 regions nationally.
Educational attainment in Sunshine sits close to the middle of locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 22.6% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 9.8% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 35.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 14.8% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 3.0% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 9.4% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 40.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 31.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 7.2% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 8.4% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 5.9% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
35.4% of people aged 15 and over in the Sunshine SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 37.0% in Greater Melbourne.
40.4% of people aged 15 and over in the Sunshine SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.2% in Greater Melbourne.
The sunshine sa2 ranks in the 51th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Sunshine SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (22.6%), Certificate (14.8%), Postgraduate (9.8%).
31.3% of the population in the Sunshine SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 8.4% in primary school, 5.9% in secondary school, 7.2% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Sunshine SA2 is 1011, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 6 schools within the Sunshine SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 901 students.
The sunshine sa2 includes 3 primary schools, 3 secondary schools.
Sunshine features high concentrations of group households and single parent families but relatively few couples without children, with an average household size in line with Greater Melbourne.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.6 people | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 25.5% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 28.9% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 21.7% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 13.6% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 7.7% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 3,365 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 3,653 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 66.8% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.3 per family | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Sunshine SA2 had 3,365 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 8.6% to an estimated 3,653 households today.
The average household size in the Sunshine SA2 is 2.6 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Melbourne and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 66.8% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (25.5%), group households (7.7%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,248 family households, couples with children account for 28.9% of all households, couples without children at home 21.7%, and single parent families 13.6%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Melbourne, the Sunshine SA2 shows distinct household patterns. The prevalence of shared households suggests a younger demographic or affordability considerations.
Families in the Sunshine SA2 have an average of 1.3 children, slightly below the Greater Melbourne average of 1.4. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 41.1% of the adult population are currently married, while 42.3% have never married. This compares to 47.0% married and 38.0% never married across Greater Melbourne.
Single-person households represent 25.5% of all households in the Sunshine SA2, similar to 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 7.7% of households, above the Greater Melbourne average of 4.3%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Sunshine is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 51.3% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 56.6% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 43.4% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 69.4% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 48.7% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.5% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
Sunshine is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country, with 51.3% of its population born overseas and 56.6% speaking a language other than English at home.
The main religion in Sunshine was found to be Christianity, which makes up 40.1% of people in Sunshine. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 11.1% of the population, substantially higher than the Greater Melbourne average of 4.2%.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Sunshine are Other, comprising 20.3% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Melbourne's 14.6%, English, comprising 14.7% of the population, which is notably lower than Greater Melbourne's 20.1%, and Australian, comprising 13.6% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Vietnamese is notably overrepresented at 13.5% of Sunshine (vs 1.9% across Greater Melbourne), Maltese at 1.4% (vs 1.1%) and Macedonian at 0.8% (vs 0.7%).
51.3% of the Sunshine SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 37.3% across Greater Melbourne.
56.6% of the population in the Sunshine SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 35.9% in Greater Melbourne.
0.5% of the Sunshine SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 0.5% in Greater Melbourne.
69.4% of the Sunshine SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 81.1% in Greater Melbourne.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Sunshine displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Melbourne.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 42.2% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 27.9% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 69.4% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,842 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 51st percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 29.9% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 22.1% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $340 | 2021 Census, weekly | 37th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 21.7% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 59th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 27.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 75th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.9 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
In the Sunshine SA2, 27.9% of homes are owned outright, 29.9% are owned with a mortgage, and 42.2% are rented.
According to the latest data, 69.4% of dwellings in the Sunshine SA2 are houses.
In the Sunshine SA2, 8.3% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 22.1% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Sunshine SA2 stands at 27.9%, compared to 30.7% in Greater Melbourne.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Sunshine SA2 is $1,842, compared to $2,000 in Greater Melbourne.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Sunshine SA2 is $1,172, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Sunshine SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 27.1% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 21.7% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Sunshine SA2 is 0.9, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Sunshine SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 27.1% of income on repayments (vs 24.3% in Greater Melbourne), while renters spend 21.7% of income on rent (vs 20.5% in Greater Melbourne).
The dwelling mix in the Sunshine SA2 consists of 69.4% detached houses, 22.1% semi-detached dwellings, 8.3% apartments, and 0.2% other dwelling types.
Housing in Sunshine consumes approximately 17.3% of median household income ($6,781 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Sunshine show attached dwellings contributing 90% of approvals compared to 31% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 10% of applications versus 69% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
Health outcomes in Sunshine are marginally below the national average with common health conditions slightly more prevalent than average across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 51.7% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 38th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 74.4% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 7.2% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 80.1% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.1% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
Around 51.7% of people in the Sunshine SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 56.5% in Greater Melbourne.
In the Sunshine SA2, 7.2% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.5% of people in Greater Melbourne require similar assistance.
7.1% of people in the Sunshine SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.3% of the population across Greater Melbourne is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.5% of the Sunshine SA2 population, while in Greater Melbourne, 4.1% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
2.5% of people in the Sunshine SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Melbourne,3.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Sunshine SA2, 51.7% 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 high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 99 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 99th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 100 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 18,482 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 99th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 102 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 32 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.0 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 27.2% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 100 public transport stops within the Sunshine SA2.
The Sunshine SA2 has 18,482 weekly trips across 32 routes, averaging 2,640 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 131 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 270 m away and the nearest school 428 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 100 stops nearby, 18,482 weekly trips, access rating 99 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 86 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 86th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 270 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 428 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 479 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 528 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest pharmacy | 556 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 652 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 860 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 958 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 3.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 3 long day care centres with 308 places in Sunshine, about 2.0 children aged 0-4 per place.
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
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An area report on Sunshine is built to order and emailed to you.
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Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Sunshine.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, recent residential development output has been above average within Sunshine when compared nationally.
Sunshine has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 45th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Sunshine is $467 a week, +6.6% over 12 months to Sep 2025.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Sunshine reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Sunshine's population is younger than the national pattern.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
Sunshine shows employment indicators that trail behind approximately 70% of regions assessed across Australia.
Educational attainment in Sunshine sits close to the middle of locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and performance metrics.
Sunshine features high concentrations of group households and single parent families but relatively few couples without children, with an average household size in line with Greater Melbourne.
Sunshine is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Sunshine displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Melbourne.
Health outcomes in Sunshine are marginally below the national average with common health conditions slightly more prevalent than average across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Sunshine has an estimated 10,252 residents, up 8.5% since the 2021 Census, with 8 projects tracked in Sunshine.
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 Sunshine.
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 (213011336). 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 Sunshine 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 Sunshine 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.
