Kowanyama

The population is far younger than the national average, with 25.9% being children under 15. De facto relationships are much more common here than in other areas, though the number of people aged 65 and over remains very low at 6.3%.

Almost everyone in the community was born in Australia, with only 1.2% born overseas, which is far below the national figure.

English is the primary language used at home for 85.8% of residents. The proportion of people using another language at home has fallen since 2011 and is now well below the state and national averages.

Christianity is the most common affiliation at 75.9%. Those reporting no religion make up 10.5% of the population, which is far below the national figure of 38.9%.

Educational attainment is much lower than the national average, with only 17.7% of residents completing Year 12. Just 3.8% of adults hold a bachelor degree or higher.

Typical incomes are far below the national average, with the usual household earning $1,132 a week. Only 7.3% of households earn $3,000 or more weekly.

Residents report fewer long-term health conditions and mental health conditions than the national average. Additionally, the 2.6% of people needing help with daily activities is well below the national figure.

Unpaid care for children is very common here, though overall volunteering rates have fallen since 2011 and are now far below the national average.

First Nations residents face significant challenges, with a very high unemployment rate of 48.8% and a typical personal income of $324, both of which are far below the national figures.

Homes are much larger than usual, with an average of 3.7 people per household. One-parent families are very common, making up 37.7% of all families.

Renters make up 85.4% of the community, though the typical weekly rent of $115 is far below the national average. Outright home ownership is very low at 5.3%.

The area is highly car-dependent, with 46.2% of homes having no motor vehicle and no public transport services available. Most people walk to work or use a car.

The community is very stable, with only 9.0% of people moving in the last five years, which is far below the national average.

The unemployment rate is very high at 40.6%, and only 39.4% of adults are working or looking for work. Most employed residents work in public administration, safety, or education.

Kowanyama is ranked among the most disadvantaged areas in the country, scoring a 1 out of 10 for overall advantage and access to resources.

The area is very wet and warm, with average annual rainfall of 1,381mm, which is far above the Queensland average.

Recorded offences are among the highest at this level, with assault and property damage being the most common crime types.

The area is car-dependent with a walkability score of 0.5. While 96.3% of homes are within a 15-minute walk of a school, there is no nearby access to groceries, health services, or parks.