Area profile · Greater Perth
Melville has an estimated 19,426 residents, up 11.3% since the 2021 Census, with 5 projects tracked in Melville.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The Melville Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 10.5 kilometres south-southwest from Perth CBD. As of Aug 2026, its population is approximately 19,426, up 1,974 people (11.3%) from the 2021 Census count of 17,452 people. This estimate reflects the ABS estimated resident population of 19,369 as of June 2025 and 186 validated new addresses since the Census date. Melville combines strong educational attainment and income, standout school performance, a notable proportion of residents aged 15 to 24yo, high semi-detached housing levels, and an elevated education employment base. Its population includes a high proportion of teenagers as well as middle-agedandelderly residents, and the area shows moderate expansion patterns.
In Western Australia, Melville is known for its coastal scenery, parks and reserves, recreational facilities, and diverse flora and fauna. Walking, cycling and picnicking are among the outdoor activities supported by the area. Shopping centres, dining options, galleries, museums and local events contribute to its community and cultural life.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Melville Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 10.5 kilometres south-southwest from Perth CBD. As of Aug 2026, its population is approximately 19,426, up 1,974 people (11.3%) from the 2021 Census count of 17,452 people. This estimate reflects the ABS estimated resident population of 19,369 as of June 2025 and 186 validated new addresses since the Census date. Melville combines strong educational attainment and income, standout school performance, a notable proportion of residents aged 15 to 24yo, high semi-detached housing levels, and an elevated education employment base. Its population includes a high proportion of teenagers as well as middle-agedandelderly residents, and the area shows moderate expansion patterns.
In Western Australia, Melville is known for its coastal scenery, parks and reserves, recreational facilities, and diverse flora and fauna. Walking, cycling and picnicking are among the outdoor activities supported by the area. Shopping centres, dining options, galleries, museums and local events contribute to its community and cultural life.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 14,494 in 2001 and 19,369 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 19,426 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 15 to 24, 14.9%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $4000+, 26.9%.
Melville ranks in the 92nd percentile nationally for employment drivers and the 90th for education.
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 Melville is $895 a week, up 7.1% over 12 months to Sep 2026 and 24% above Greater Perth.
24% above Greater Perth on median weekly rent
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $895 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +7.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Melville | $818 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Melville, over 12 months | +6.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Perth - South West | $717 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent, Perth - South West, over 12 months | +6.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, Greater Perth | $723 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Greater Perth, over 12 months | +6.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Median rent, WA | $714 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, WA, over 12 months | +7.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 172 tracked applications: 126 approved, 12 under assessment, 34 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 5 projects in Melville and 94 more in the surrounding area.
The proposal focuses on improving transport capacity and modal options along corridors connecting Murdoch and Cockburn Central to Fremantle to address growing congestion from population growth and high car-dependency.
Redevelopment and expansion of the former Attadale Private Hospital under Ramsay Health Care, transitioning the facility to a dedicated private rehabilitation hospital. Works included a 7-bed ward extension completed in 2019, bringing the facility to 39 licensed beds.
Modular transportable homes designed for social and affordable housing with minimal environmental impact, complemented by skills training programs for unemployed and vulnerable individuals. The project is coordinated from the headquarters in Booragoon, WA.
Blackwall Reach is a major urban renewal project in Bicton, transforming former public housing into a vibrant residential precinct. The redevelopment delivers over 400 new dwellings including a mix of social, affordable, and private apartments and townhouses.
A new purpose-built aged care facility at the historic Woodside site in East Fremantle designed to provide high-quality residential care with modern amenities, therapy spaces, and landscaped gardens for elderly residents.
Replacement of the outdoor spray park including softfall and shade sails. Refurbishment of the Health Lounge, spa, and sauna facilities including retiling, repainting, and fixture upgrades at LeisureFit Booragoon.
Proposed upgrade and expansion of the existing Point Walter Recreation and Conference Centre, providing modern and functional facilities for school and community camps, conferences, and workshops. The wider precinct is a site of deep cultural significance to the Whadjuk Noongar people, known as Dyoondalup.
Proposed mixed use development on the former Palmyra Bowling Club site, comprising 98 apartments above ground floor commercial tenancies, delivering new housing and local shops close to Fremantle in partnership between 10 Development and DevelopmentWA.
A $792 million expansion of Westfield Booragoon (formerly Garden City) in Perth's southern suburbs, co-owned by Scentre Group and Dexus. The project will grow the centre from 72,000sqm to approximately 114,620sqm, adding a new entertainment and leisure precinct with expanded cinema complex, fresh food precinct, dining and bar tenancies, 53 new specialty…
Stage 2 of the Applecross Village Redevelopment focuses on the implementation of the Riseley Activity Centre Structure Plan. The project involves major streetscape upgrades and public realm improvements at the intersection of Sleat Road and Riseley Street to foster a vibrant mixed-use precinct.
Small infill redevelopment delivering 4 two-storey grouped dwellings at 34A Polglass Way by Sincerity Group/Sincerity Building Group. City of Melville granted development approval in 2022. Sincerity is marketing house-and-land packages for "Polglass Way, Ardross" with guide pricing from $1,410,000, indicating sales/marketing underway.
Known as Mos Lane, this $75.7 million mixed-use project by Australian Development Capital replaces a dated neighbourhood shopping centre with a five-storey complex featuring 70 residential apartments and townhouses, ground-floor retail, restaurants, and a local supermarket.
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 60 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2024 1, 2025 4, 2026 16, 2027 15, 2028 12, 2029 2, 2030 3, 2031 2, 2032 2, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 3. 6 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 172 substantial development applications lodged in and around Melville over the past 5 years, 46 in the last 12 months; 12 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 1, 2022 33, 2023 30, 2024 28, 2025 41, 2026 (to Oct) 39.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 172 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 46 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 4.3 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 54th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 78 | ABS building approvals | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 126 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 12 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Melville SA2 include: The Point Attadale (Proposed); Attadale Reserve Masterplan & Sports Facilities Upgrade (Planning); Melville District Activity Centre Plan - Palmyra Precinct (Approved); Blackwall Reach Precinct Redevelopment (Construction); and Westfield Booragoon Redevelopment (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Melville SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Sports & Recreation, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Melville SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 28th percentile.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Melville among the top 20% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Melville SA2 area has seen 155 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Melville SA2's current population of 19,426 has been supported by 78 approvals on average over recent years.
The Melville SA2 has seen 4.3 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 7.4 approvals in Greater Perth. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 248 people in the Melville SA2, compared to one for every 118 in Greater Perth.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Melville SA2's approval levels have been consistent with the yearly average of 78, showing stable development patterns.
Over the past five years, the population in the Melville SA2 has grown by approximately 1,492 people, while 392 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 3.8 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
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 Melville are slightly above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 19,426 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +11.3% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Population density | 2,464 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 77th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 17,452 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 1,974 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +2.3% | 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 | 7.88 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Melville SA2 was estimated to be approximately 19,426 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 19,369 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The melville sa2 has added approximately 1,974 people and shown a 11.31% increase from the 17,452 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Melville SA2 is estimated at 2,465 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Melville SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.3% per annum.
Population growth in the Melville SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (79.6%), Interstate migration (19.8%), Natural increase (0.5%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 79.6% of overall population gains.
Melville's median age exceeds the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 42 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 65th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 19.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 16.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 24.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 49.1% | 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 | 42 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.2% | 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 | 14.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 9.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 12.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 14.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 12.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 8.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 6.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Melville SA2 at 42 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 42 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 42 years as at August 2026, Melville is 5 years older than the Greater Perth 2021 Census average (37 years) and 4 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Melville SA2 compared to the Greater Perth region is the 45 - 54 group, making up 14.2% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Melville SA2 compared to the Greater Perth region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 9.9% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Melville SA2 show significant variance compared to Greater Perth. The most over-represented age group is 85+ year-olds (3.6% vs 2.0%). The most under-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (9.9% vs 15.8%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 16.8% of the population in the Melville SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 19.2% of the population in the Melville SA2 as at August 2026.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 84% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $68,879 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 81st percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $101,732 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,292 | 2021 Census, weekly | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $995 | 2021 Census, weekly | 78th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 39.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $3,027 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 19.7% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Melville SA2 is approximately $73,728. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $68,879.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Melville SA2 is approximately $108,894. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $101,732.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Melville SA2 is approximately $73,728 compared to $68,556 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $68,879 and $64,047 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Melville SA2 is approximately $108,894 compared to $90,565 in Greater Perth. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $101,732 and $84,609 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Melville SA2's households (~26.9% / 1,725 households) is the $4000+ cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Melville SA2 is the $4000+ group, representing about 26.9% of households. In comparison, Greater Perth's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 32.0% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Melville SA2 is $2,292/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Melville SA2 is $3,027/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Melville SA2 is $995/wk.
The Melville SA2 shows a median taxpayer income of $68,879 and an average of $101,732 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. This is among the top percentile nationally, contrasting with Greater Perth's median income of $64,047 and average income of $84,609. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 7.04% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $73,728 (median) and $108,894 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Melville SA2 is $8,645 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The melville sa2's disposable income is $8,645 compared to $6,842 for Greater Perth, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The exceptional employment performance in Melville places it among Australia's strongest labour markets.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 1.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 68.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 10,823 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 17,697 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 10,983 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Melville SA2 has approximately 10,823 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 1.5%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. The area ranks in the top 25% nationally for employment performance, indicating a robust job market.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Melville SA2 stands at 1.5%, which is 2.8 percentage points below Greater Perth's rate of 4.2%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Melville SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (14.5% of employment), education & training (12.6%), and professional & technical (10.1%). Other significant employers include retail trade and construction.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Melville 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 Perth saw employment increased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the Melville SA2 is 68.7%, 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 Perth average of 69.9%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Perth.
The melville sa2 shows notable specialisation in education & training, which employs 12.6% of the local workforce compared to 9.2% across Greater Perth. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector.
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The melville sa2's employment market shows strong performance nationally, ranking in the top 25% of areas assessed by AreaSearch. This indicates robust employment conditions and economic vitality compared to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 4.5% growth, ranking 12th out of 37 regions nationally.
Educational achievement in Melville places it within the top 10% nationally, reflecting strong academic performance and high qualification levels across the community.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 27.7% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 8.3% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 40.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 18.2% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 4.4% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.3% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 30.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 30.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 6.5% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 9.7% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 9.9% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
40.4% of people aged 15 and over in the Melville SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 30.1% in Greater Perth.
30.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Melville SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 35.6% in Greater Perth.
The melville sa2 ranks in the 90th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Melville SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (27.7%), Certificate (18.2%), Advanced Diploma (11.3%).
30.6% of the population in the Melville SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 9.7% in primary school, 9.9% in secondary school, 6.5% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Melville SA2 is 1115, indicating above-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 7 schools within the Melville SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 4,343 students.
The melville sa2 includes 4 primary schools, 2 secondary schools, 1 combined school.
Melville features high concentrations of couples with children but relatively few group households, with an average household size in line with Greater Perth.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.6 people | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 24.6% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 37.5% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 25.6% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 9.4% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.0% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 6,404 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 7,128 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 73.4% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.6 per family | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Melville SA2 had 6,404 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 11.3% to an estimated 7,128 households today.
The average household size in the Melville SA2 is 2.6 people. This compares to 2.6 in Greater Perth and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 73.4% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (24.6%), group households (2.0%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 4,701 family households, couples with children account for 37.5% of all households, couples without children at home 25.6%, and single parent families 9.4%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Perth, the Melville SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the Melville SA2 have an average of 1.6 children, matching the Greater Perth average of 1.6. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 52.8% of the adult population are currently married, while 31.1% have never married. This compares to 47.6% married and 36.1% never married across Greater Perth.
Single-person households represent 24.6% of all households in the Melville SA2, similar to the average for Greater Perth of 24.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.0% of households, below the Greater Perth average of 3.5%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Melville was found to be slightly above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 26.7% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 11.6% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 88.4% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 90.8% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 73.3% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.5% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
Melville was found to be above average in terms of cultural diversity, with 11.6% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 26.7% born overseas.
The main religion in Melville was found to be Christianity, which makes up 54.1% of people in Melville. This compares to 45.0% across Greater Perth.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Melville are English, comprising 29.6% of the population, Australian, comprising 23.8% of the population, and Irish, comprising 8.4% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Croatian is notably overrepresented at 1.4% of Melville (vs 0.8% across Greater Perth), Welsh at 0.9% (vs 0.7%) and Italian at 7.1% (vs 4.2%).
26.7% of the Melville SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 37.7% across Greater Perth.
11.6% of the population in the Melville SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 22.0% in Greater Perth.
0.5% of the Melville SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Greater Perth.
90.8% of the Melville SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 83.0% in Greater Perth.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Melville 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 | 17.3% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 42.5% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 76.5% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,420 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 86th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 40.2% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 20.3% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $420 | 2021 Census, weekly | 71st percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 18.3% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 26th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 24.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 53rd percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
In the Melville SA2, 42.5% of homes are owned outright, 40.2% are owned with a mortgage, and 17.3% are rented.
According to the latest data, 76.5% of dwellings in the Melville SA2 are houses.
In the Melville SA2, 3.1% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 20.3% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Melville SA2 stands at 42.5%, compared to 29.3% in Greater Perth.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Melville SA2 is $2,420, compared to $1,907 in Greater Perth.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Melville SA2 is $1,287, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Melville SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 24.4% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 18.3% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Melville SA2 is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Melville SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 24.4% of income on repayments (vs 23.6% in Greater Perth), while renters spend 18.3% of income on rent (vs 18.8% in Greater Perth).
The dwelling mix in the Melville SA2 consists of 76.5% detached houses, 20.3% semi-detached dwellings, 3.1% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Melville consumes approximately 13.0% of median household income ($9,924 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Melville show attached dwellings contributing 14% of approvals compared to 24% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 86% of applications versus 76% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Melville's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 69.5% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 91st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 72.2% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 4.8% | 2021 Census | 39th 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 | 0.6% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
Around 69.5% of people in the Melville SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.1% in Greater Perth.
In the Melville SA2, 4.8% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 4.6% of people in Greater Perth require similar assistance.
6.3% of people in the Melville SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.8% of the population across Greater Perth is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 2.8% of the Melville SA2 population, while in Greater Perth, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.9% of people in the Melville SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Perth,3.3% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Melville SA2, 69.5% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Perth sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 59.1%.
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 | 55 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 55th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 80 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 2,288 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 54th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 243 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 11 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.6 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 11.9% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 80 public transport stops within the Melville SA2.
The Melville SA2 has 2,288 weekly trips across 11 routes, averaging 326 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 220 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 444 m away and the nearest school 533 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 80 stops nearby, 2,288 weekly trips, access rating 55 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 49 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 49th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 444 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 533 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 545 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 686 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 913 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 943 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 2.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 5.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 5.5 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 6 long day care centres with 401 places in Melville, about 2.0 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 Melville among the top 20% of areas assessed nationwide.
Melville has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 28th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Melville is $895 a week, +7.1% over 12 months to Sep 2026.
Population growth drivers in Melville are slightly above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium term trends.
Melville's median age exceeds the national pattern.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 84% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
The exceptional employment performance in Melville places it among Australia's strongest labour markets.
Educational achievement in Melville places it within the top 10% nationally, reflecting strong academic performance and high qualification levels across the community.
Melville features high concentrations of couples with children but relatively few group households, with an average household size in line with Greater Perth.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Melville was found to be slightly above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Melville is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Melville's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
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 in line with the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Melville has an estimated 19,426 residents, up 11.3% since the 2021 Census, with 5 projects tracked in Melville.
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 Melville.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2026, 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 (507041181). 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 Melville 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 Melville 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.
