Mean terrain slope

Average terrain slope across the area, as a percent grade. Steeper ground shortens how far people will walk; it is already folded into the walkability score through the elevation-aware pedestrian network, and is shown here on its own for context. It is calculated as a percentage of the relevant population or dwellings, so it can be compared fairly between large and small areas.

Terrain quietly shapes walkability: a hillside trims how far you can comfortably walk in the same time, which is why the score is computed on grade-aware walking routes.

Worth knowing: It is neither good nor bad on its own — hilly areas are often prized — and it describes the general street grade, not the specific path to any one destination.

Across the 2,455 SA2 areas with data, Mean terrain slope ranges from 0.5% to 49.2%, with a typical (median) area at 5.3%. Most areas cluster toward the lower end, with a smaller number of much higher areas stretching the range.

Use the interactive map to compare Mean terrain slope down to statistical area 2 (sa2) and postcode level, or search any suburb, postcode or council area to see its value in context against state and national figures.