Kununurra vs Lajamanu

Kununurra and Lajamanu are remote areas in different states with very different profiles. In Kununurra, First Nations household income is far higher at $1,369, compared to $714 in Lajamanu. Year 12 completion for First Nations people is also far higher in Kununurra at 22.4%, while only 5% of First Nations people in Lajamanu finished school. The two places differ sharply in language and layout; 98.3% of people in Lajamanu speak a First Nations language, which is far higher than the 19.6% in Kununurra.

These gaps in income and education have stayed wide over time. Both areas share some basic traits, such as having almost no homes within a short walk of public transport. While Kununurra is somewhat walkable, Lajamanu is mostly car-dependent. However, residents in Lajamanu have far better access to essentials on foot, with 100% of homes within a 15-minute walk of groceries, health services, and schools.