Barwon Four vs Lightning Ridge

Barwon Four and Lightning Ridge are two rural New South Wales areas with very different outcomes for First Nations people. Barwon Four has a First Nations unemployment rate of 40.9%, which is far higher than in Lightning Ridge at 18.7%. This gap is seen in education and income too; Year 12 completion is far higher in Lightning Ridge at 28.1% compared to 13.0% in Barwon Four, and the typical First Nations household income in Lightning Ridge is $949, well higher than the $634 in Barwon Four.

Both areas have a First Nations median age of 27, which is the same for both. While Lightning Ridge has a far larger First Nations population, with 342 people compared to 73 in Barwon Four, the two areas have tracked similarly in this regard. In terms of local layout, Barwon Four has a little more street connectivity, though its walkable amenities are mostly parks, while Lightning Ridge has a wider mix of culture and food options.