Palm Island vs Townsville

Palm Island and Townsville are two different types of Queensland environments. Palm Island is a car-dependent area where 44.4% of people speak a First Nations language and the typical First Nations household income is $950, which is much lower than most areas. In contrast, Townsville is very walkable and has far higher First Nations Year 12 completion rates at 47.5%, compared to 25.9% on Palm Island. Townsville also has a much larger First Nations population of 7,375 people and a typical First Nations household income that is well higher at $1,395.

These two places have moved apart in their access to local services. While both areas have a significant First Nations presence, the gap in walkability is stark; 90% of Townsville homes are within a 10-minute walk of public transport, while 0% of homes on Palm Island have the same access. This gap extends to daily needs, with 66.1% of Townsville residents able to walk to groceries, whereas 0% of people on Palm Island can do so.