Walgett

The typical resident is 44, which is noticeably older than the national figure. First Nations people make up 21.2% of the population, far above the 3.2% national average, while seniors aged 65 and over account for 21.8%.

Most residents were born in Australia, and those with a recorded ancestry are predominantly Australian or English. Only 8.5% of the population was born overseas, a figure far below the national average of 27.7%.

English is the primary language here, with only 5.3% of people using another language at home. This is far below the national figure of 22.3%, and very few people speak little or no English.

Christianity remains the most common faith at 41.9%. Those reporting no religion make up 29.5% of the community, which is well below the national figure of 38.9%.

Education levels are much lower than most areas, with only 29.9% of people completing Year 12. Just 8.9% of adults hold a bachelor degree or higher, far below the national figure of 26.3%.

Typical incomes are among the lowest in the country, with the usual household earning $1,001 a week. This is far below the national figure of $1,746, and only 9.9% of households earn $3,000 or more weekly.

About 6.1% of people need help with daily activities, which is slightly higher than most areas. Long-term health conditions are reported at 26.4%, about the same as the rest of the country.

Volunteering rates are lower than most areas at 14.8%. Participation in unpaid care and housework is also well below the national average, with only 15.4% doing 15 or more hours of housework weekly.

There are 1,113 First Nations people in the area, who have a typical age of 29. Unemployment is much higher than the national figure at 15.3%, and typical household incomes are well below the national average.

Many residents live alone—37.4% of households—which is far above the national figure of 25.6%. One-parent families are also very common, making up 22.8% of homes.

Homes are generally affordable, with a typical weekly rent of $180. Ownership is high, as 41.4% of homes are owned outright, far above the national figure of 31%.

Cars are essential here, as 57.5% of people drive to work and very few use public transport. Only 0.3% commute by public transport, which is lower than most areas.

The population is relatively stable, with only 24.9% of people moving in the last five years. This is far below the national figure of 40.7%.

Agriculture, forestry, and fishing are the main industries, employing 26.3% of the workforce. While 63.5% of workers are in full-time roles, the overall unemployment rate of 6.7% is higher than the national figure.

The area faces significant challenges, with an overall advantage score that is smaller than about 85% of other areas. Population growth has also been negative, falling 2.7% since 2021.

The climate is hot and dry, with an average maximum temperature of 28.4°C. This is higher than the state average, and annual rainfall is also lower than the New South Wales average.

Recorded offences are among the highest at this level, particularly for assault, burglary, and property damage. Drug offence rates are also much higher than in most other areas.

The area is somewhat walkable, and there are far more walkable amenities per 1,000 residents than the state average. However, only 36.6% of homes are within a 10-minute walk of public transport.