7265, TAS

This is an older community where the typical resident is 48, noticeably older than across Tasmania. While the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population is much higher than in most similar areas, the total population is small and has fallen by 15% since 2011.

The area is overwhelmingly Australian-born, with 82.4% born here. Those born overseas make up only 8.6% of the population, which is far below the national figure.

English is the only language used at home by nearly every resident. No one in the area reported using another language at home, a figure far below the national average.

More than half of the population (51.5%) report having no religion, which is far above the national figure. This trend has grown significantly, rising by 27 points since 2011.

Education levels are much lower than in most areas, with only 7.6% of adults holding a bachelor degree. However, the number of people who completed Year 12 has risen by 8 points since 2011 to 37.6%.

Typical incomes are among the lowest at this level, with a typical household earning $927 a week, far below the national figure of $1,746. No households earn $3,000 or more per week.

Health challenges are common here, as 33.5% of people have a long-term health condition. Those needing help with daily activities make up 7.3% of the population, which is much higher than in most similar areas.

Volunteering is a strong feature, with 23.8% of people volunteering, well above the national figure. This is alongside a high rate of unpaid care, with 21.6% of people providing care for others.

One-parent families are very common here, making up 22.1% of households, which is well above the national figure. Homes are generally small, with only 2.1 people per home.

Housing is very stable, with 52.6% of homes owned outright, far above the national figure. Most residents live in separate houses, and rental rates are much lower than in most areas.

The area is entirely dependent on cars, as no one commutes via public transport. About 49% of homes have two vehicles, and 15% have three.

The community is very stable, with far fewer people moving in the last five years compared to the rest of the country. There have been no recent arrivals from overseas.

Agriculture, forestry and fishing is the primary industry, employing 40.9% of the workforce. Only 51.4% of adults are working or looking for work, which is well below the national figure.

The area is ranked among the most disadvantaged in the country, scoring just 1 out of 10 for overall advantage. This is reflected in the very low access to money and resources.

The area is almost entirely car-dependent, with a walkability score of 0.3. Residents cannot walk to groceries, health services or parks, though half live within a 15-minute walk of a school.