Townsville - Mackay vs Alice Springs

Townsville - Mackay and Alice Springs are far apart, with the former being a vast Queensland region and the latter a smaller Northern Territory hub. They differ most in their layout and First Nations demographics. Alice Springs is more compact and is described as somewhat walkable, while Townsville - Mackay is mostly car-dependent. There are stark differences in language and education: 36.5% of people in Alice Springs speak a First Nations language, but First Nations Year 12 completion is far higher in Townsville - Mackay at 42.6% compared to 23.4% in Alice Springs.

These areas have tracked differently over time, with the gap in First Nations Year 12 completion now sitting at 19 points. Both places have a strong First Nations presence, though the population is far larger in Townsville - Mackay. In Alice Springs, a much higher share of homes are within a 15-minute walk of schools, groceries, and public transport. This accessibility is reflected in the walkability score, which is well higher in Alice Springs than in Townsville - Mackay.