Townsville

The population is younger than the national figure, and it is becoming more diverse with a First Nations population that is well above the state and national levels. There is also a high proportion of people in de facto relationships compared to most other areas.

Most residents were born in Australia, and the area has far fewer overseas-born people than the national average. English and Australian are the most common ancestries, which is consistent with the low percentage of people using a language other than English at home.

While the number of people using another language at home is higher than in most similar areas, this is still far below the national figure. English remains the dominant language for nearly 84% of the community.

About 40% of residents report no religion, which is about the same as the state average. This represents a significant shift in the community, with the figure rising by 18 percentage points since 2011.

The area has a higher number of people with bachelor degrees than most similar areas, though this is still well below the national average. Qualifications in engineering, management, and health are the most common.

Typical weekly personal and household incomes are higher than in most similar areas and sit around the state and national figures. Pay has risen noticeably since 2011, and more people are earning $2,000 or more per week.

Mental health conditions are much more common here than in most other areas. Overall, the rate of long-term health conditions and the need for daily help are about the same as the state and national figures.

This community has a very high proportion of people who have served in the Defence Force compared to the rest of the country. However, volunteering rates are much lower than in most similar areas.

The First Nations community is large and relatively young, with a typical age of 22. Year 12 completion rates are well above the national average, though unemployment is a little higher than the state figure.

Homes here tend to be larger, and there is a much higher rate of one-parent families than in most other areas. About 26% of residents live alone.

Renting is much more common here than across Australia, while far fewer people own their homes outright. Detached houses are very popular, and typical weekly rents are a little below the state and national figures.

Most people rely on cars, as very few workers use public transport or work from home. While there are many bus stops, the number of people working from home is far below the national figure.

The area is quite mobile, with 42.9% of people moving in the last five years. This is higher than in most similar areas, though the number of recent overseas arrivals has fallen since 2011.

More adults are working or looking for work than in most similar areas, and full-time employment is well above the national average. Health care, public safety, and education are the top industries.

The area is generally more advantaged than 70% of similar regions, partly due to strong job skills. It is also seeing healthy growth in both population and new dwelling approvals.

The climate is hot and wet, with annual rainfall far above the Queensland average. Minimum temperatures are also well above the state figure.

Townsville faces significant challenges with crime, as recorded offences are much higher than in most other areas. Theft and drug offences are the most common issues, and the crime rate has risen sharply over five years.

While many homes are within a short walk of public transport and parks, they are far less likely to be near groceries or health services than in the rest of the state. The overall walkability is just about average for Queensland.