Area profile · Greater Melbourne
Sunshine North has an estimated 13,076 residents, up 8.5% since the 2021 Census, with 11 projects tracked in Sunshine North.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Situated 13 kilometres west-northwest from Melbourne CBD, the Sunshine North Statistical Area (Lv2) presents a distinctive urban-suburban environment that balances residential, commercial, and industrial activity. Demographic analysis from AreaSearch establishes an Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of approximately 13,076 as of Aug 2026. This reflects a moderate expansion pattern, adding 1,029 people (8.5%) since the 2021 Census count of 12,047 residents. This demographic progression is underpinned by the ABS Estimated Resident Population of 12,754 as of June 2025 alongside an additional 834 validated new addresses completed following the Census date. Known for its strong community fabric, the locality is enriched by scenic parklands, abundant open greenery, and quality educational institutions that appeal to growing families.
Sunshine North is distinguished by remarkable cultural diversity, characterised by a substantial overseas-born cohort and a fusion of traditions, alongside an above-average household size and lower-quartile income levels.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 10,478 in 2001 and 12,751 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 13,076 (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, 17%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 30.6%.
Sunshine North ranks in the 97th percentile nationally for cultural diversity and the 73rd for amenities.
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 North is $468 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): $337 in 2016, $501 in 2025; Units (dashed orange line): $289 in 2016, $419 in 2025. The latest is to Sep 2025.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $468 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 | $501 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +5.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, units | $419 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 | +4.7% | 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 11 projects in Sunshine North (3 under construction) and 74 more in the surrounding area.
Stage 1 of the Melbourne Airport Rail connecting passengers from West Footscray to Albion.
Masterplanned house and land community on the Maribyrnong River, approx. 11 km from Melbourne CBD.
Approved mixed-use masterplanned development designed by Buchan on a 2.18-hectare infill site.
LUMA is a masterplanned community being developed on the 4.7-hectare former City West Water site.
Integrated early years and community hub replacing North Sunshine Kindergarten and Dempster Park Hall.
Long stalled 1920s subdivision in Sunshine North with industrial zoning and significant environmental constraints.
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.
The Sunshine Health, Wellbeing and Education Precinct is a 67 hectare health, education and employment precinct in St Albans centred around…
State-of-the-art construction training facility at VU Sunshine campus completed in 2013.
Council-led streetscape upgrade delivered for the Suffolk Road local shopping centre, improving pedestrian amenity and safety with new…
Long-term Victorian Government urban renewal and transport precinct program centred on Sunshine Station, Sunshine CBD and Albion Quarter.
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 30 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 5, 2026 4, 2027 6, 2028 6, 2029 2, 2030 4, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 2, 2034 0, 2035 1. 21 have no completion year.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS building approvals | 9.0 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 110 | ABS building approvals | 81st percentile nationally |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Sunshine North SA2 include: Melbourne Airport Rail - Sunshine to Albion Package (Construction); River Valley (Construction); Sunshine North Village (Approved); Dempster Park Children's and Community Centre (Planning); and Luma Sunshine North (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Sunshine North SA2 spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Transport & Logistics, and Residential Development, among others.
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AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places Sunshine North among the top 29% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Sunshine North SA2 area has seen 260 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Sunshine North SA2's current population of 13,076 has been supported by 110 approvals on average over recent years.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Sunshine North SA2's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 110, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the Sunshine North SA2 has grown by approximately 300 people, while 549 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 0.5 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.
Population growth drivers in Sunshine North are slightly above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 13,076 | 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 | 1,630 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 12,047 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 1,029 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +2.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +2.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 8.02 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Sunshine North SA2 was estimated to be approximately 13,076 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 12,754 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The sunshine north sa2 has added approximately 1,029 people and shown a 8.54% increase from the 12,047 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Sunshine North SA2 is estimated at 1,630 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Sunshine North SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.7% per annum.
Population growth in the Sunshine North SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (87.4%), Natural increase (12.6%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 87.4% of overall population gains.
Sunshine North's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 37 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 16.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 15.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 29.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 55.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age at the 2021 Census | 37 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 10.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 12.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 17.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 14.3% | 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 | 12.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 9.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 5.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Sunshine North SA2 at 37 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 37 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 37 years as at August 2026, Sunshine North is equal to the Greater Melbourne 2021 Census average and similarly aligned with comparable to the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Sunshine North SA2 compared to the Greater Melbourne region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 12.2% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Sunshine North SA2 compared to the Greater Melbourne region is the 35 - 44 group, making up 14.3% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the Sunshine North SA2 is broadly in line with Greater Melbourne.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 15.7% of the population in the Sunshine North SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 16.4% of the population in the Sunshine North SA2 as at August 2026.
Income figures position the area below 84% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $45,306 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 5th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $52,743 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,399 | 2021 Census, weekly | 28th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $546 | 2021 Census, weekly | 6th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 15.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,491 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 29.0% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Sunshine North SA2 is approximately $48,296. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $45,306.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Sunshine North SA2 is approximately $56,224. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $52,743.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Sunshine North SA2 is approximately $48,296 compared to $63,783 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $45,306 and $59,834 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Sunshine North SA2 is approximately $56,224 compared to $83,612 in Greater Melbourne. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $52,743 and $78,435 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Sunshine North SA2's households (~30.6% / 1,182 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Sunshine North SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 30.6% 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 North SA2 is $1,399/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Sunshine North SA2 is $1,491/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Sunshine North SA2 is $546/wk.
As per AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the Sunshine North SA2's median income among taxpayers is $45,306, with an average of $52,743. This is lower than average on a national basis, and compares to Greater Melbourne's median of $59,834 and average of $78,435. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.6% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $48,296 (median) and $56,224 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Sunshine North SA2 is $5,092 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The sunshine north sa2's disposable income is $5,092 compared to $6,948 for Greater Melbourne, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment drivers in Sunshine North are experiencing difficulties, placing it among the bottom 14% of areas assessed across Australia.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 7.8% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 61.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 6,045 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 12,464 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 6,558 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Sunshine North SA2 has approximately 6,045 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 7.8%. 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 North SA2 stands at 7.8%, which is 2.9 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 North SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are manufacturing (13.8% of employment), retail trade (12.4%), and health care & social assistance (11.9%). Other significant employers include transport, postal & warehousing and construction.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Sunshine North SA2 has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Greater Melbourne saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the Sunshine North SA2 is 61.7%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate trailing the Greater Melbourne average of 70.1%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The sunshine north sa2 shows notable specialisation in manufacturing, which employs 13.8% of the local workforce compared to 7.2% across Greater Melbourne. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The sunshine north 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.
Education in Sunshine North: university qualifications 24.3%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 977.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 17.5% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 5.3% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 24.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 15.0% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.5% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 8.7% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 52.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 30.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 6.6% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 8.7% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.8% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
24.3% of people aged 15 and over in the Sunshine North SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 37.0% in Greater Melbourne.
52.0% of people aged 15 and over in the Sunshine North SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.2% in Greater Melbourne.
The sunshine north sa2 ranks in the 30th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Sunshine North SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (17.5%), Certificate (15.0%), Advanced Diploma (8.7%).
30.6% of the population in the Sunshine North SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 8.7% in primary school, 7.8% in secondary school, 6.6% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Sunshine North SA2 is 977, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 6 schools within the Sunshine North SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 976 students.
The sunshine north sa2 includes 4 primary schools, 1 secondary school, 1 combined school.
Sunshine North features high concentrations of single parent families and group households but relatively few couples without children, with a larger average household size than Greater Melbourne.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.9 people | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 22.2% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 34.6% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 18.5% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 17.2% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 5.4% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 3,862 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 4,192 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 72.4% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.6 per family | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Sunshine North SA2 had 3,862 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 8.5% to an estimated 4,192 households today.
The average household size in the Sunshine North SA2 is 2.9 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Melbourne and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 72.4% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (22.2%), group households (5.4%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,796 family households, couples with children account for 34.6% of all households, couples without children at home 18.5%, and single parent families 17.2%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Melbourne, the Sunshine North SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the Sunshine North SA2 have an average of 1.6 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 42.4% of the adult population are currently married, while 37.7% have never married. This compares to 47.0% married and 38.0% never married across Greater Melbourne.
Single-person households represent 22.2% of all households in the Sunshine North 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 5.4% of households, above the Greater Melbourne average of 4.3%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Sunshine North 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 | 57.9% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 74.6% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 25.4% | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 76.0% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 42.1% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.4% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
Sunshine North is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country, with 57.9% of its population born overseas and 74.6% speaking a language other than English at home.
The main religion in Sunshine North was found to be Christianity, which makes up 42.1% of people in Sunshine North. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 23.0% 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 North are Vietnamese, comprising 31.8% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Melbourne's 1.9%, Other, comprising 14.4% of the population, and Chinese, comprising 11.3% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Maltese is notably overrepresented at 5.4% of Sunshine North (vs 1.1% across Greater Melbourne), Croatian at 1.1% (vs 0.7%) and Polish at 1.0% (vs 0.8%).
57.9% of the Sunshine North SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 37.3% across Greater Melbourne.
74.6% of the population in the Sunshine North SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 35.9% in Greater Melbourne.
0.4% of the Sunshine North SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 0.5% in Greater Melbourne.
76.0% of the Sunshine North SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 81.1% in Greater Melbourne.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Sunshine North 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 | 30.7% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 39.5% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 82.5% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,733 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 29.8% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 12.9% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $341 | 2021 Census, weekly | 38th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 24.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 79th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 28.6% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 83rd percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.9 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
In the Sunshine North SA2, 39.5% of homes are owned outright, 29.8% are owned with a mortgage, and 30.7% are rented.
According to the latest data, 82.5% of dwellings in the Sunshine North SA2 are houses.
In the Sunshine North SA2, 4.2% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 12.9% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Sunshine North SA2 stands at 39.5%, compared to 30.7% in Greater Melbourne.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Sunshine North SA2 is $1,733, compared to $2,000 in Greater Melbourne.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Sunshine North SA2 is $970, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Sunshine North SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 28.6% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 24.4% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Sunshine North SA2 is 0.9, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Sunshine North SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 28.6% of income on repayments (vs 24.3% in Greater Melbourne), while renters spend 24.4% of income on rent (vs 20.5% in Greater Melbourne).
The dwelling mix in the Sunshine North SA2 consists of 82.5% detached houses, 12.9% semi-detached dwellings, 4.2% apartments, and 0.4% other dwelling types.
Housing in Sunshine North consumes approximately 16.0% of median household income ($6,058 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 North show attached dwellings contributing 78% of approvals compared to 18% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 22% of applications versus 82% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
Sunshine North's residents are relatively healthy in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 46.2% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 1st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 74.3% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 8.4% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 81.7% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.7% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
Around 46.2% of people in the Sunshine North SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 56.5% in Greater Melbourne.
In the Sunshine North SA2, 8.4% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.5% of people in Greater Melbourne require similar assistance.
6.6% of people in the Sunshine North SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.3% of the population across Greater Melbourne is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 5.9% of the Sunshine North SA2 population, while in Greater Melbourne, 4.1% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
2.7% of people in the Sunshine North SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Melbourne,3.1% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Sunshine North SA2, 46.2% 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 good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 65 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 65th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 43 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 37th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 3,446 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 65th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 303 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 8 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.4 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 17.5% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 43 public transport stops within the Sunshine North SA2.
The Sunshine North SA2 has 3,446 weekly trips across 8 routes, averaging 492 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 281 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 449 m away and the nearest child care centre 510 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 43 stops nearby, 3,446 weekly trips, access rating 65 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 73 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 449 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 510 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 577 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 722 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest dentist | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 2.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 4 long day care centres with 422 places in Sunshine North, about 1.7 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 places Sunshine North among the top 29% of areas assessed nationwide.
Sunshine North has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 48% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Sunshine North is $468 a week, +6.6% over 12 months to Sep 2025.
Population growth drivers in Sunshine North are slightly above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium term trends.
Sunshine North's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
Income figures position the area below 84% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
Employment drivers in Sunshine North are experiencing difficulties, placing it among the bottom 14% of areas assessed across Australia.
Education in Sunshine North: university qualifications 24.3%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 977.
Sunshine North features high concentrations of single parent families and group households but relatively few couples without children, with a larger average household size than Greater Melbourne.
Sunshine North 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 North is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Sunshine North's residents are relatively healthy in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
Transport servicing is good 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 North has an estimated 13,076 residents, up 8.5% since the 2021 Census, with 11 projects tracked in Sunshine North.
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 North.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2025, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Sep 2026. Housing, households and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 14 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (213011337). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Sep 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Sunshine North 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 North 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.