South Hedland vs Tennant Creek

South Hedland and Tennant Creek are both large, remote regional areas, but they differ sharply in their social and economic profiles. South Hedland has a much larger First Nations population, with 8,113 people compared to 3,302 in Tennant Creek. There is a significant gap in outcomes for First Nations people between the two; South Hedland has far higher Year 12 completion (32.8% versus 14.7%) and a typical household income that is $948 higher than in Tennant Creek. In contrast, First Nations people are far more likely to speak a First Nations language in Tennant Creek, where 58.6% do so, compared to 29.3% in South Hedland.

These two areas have followed similar paths since 2011, maintaining a consistent level of walkability with scores of 3.9 and 4.2, which are both considered car-dependent. They also share a typical First Nations age of 26 years and very similar flat terrain. While South Hedland has far more homes within walking distance of public transport, Tennant Creek is far more walkable for daily needs, with 76.9% of homes within 15 minutes of groceries compared to 40.9% in South Hedland.