Wauchope

The population is noticeably older than the national figure, with 22.8% of residents aged 65 and over. This senior population is much higher than in most similar areas, and the typical resident is 43.

Most residents were born in Australia, and the area has among the lowest proportions of overseas-born people at 8.0%. This is far below the New South Wales figure of 29.3%.

English is the primary language for almost everyone here, with only 2.1% of people using another language at home. This is far below the national average of 22.3%.

Religious views have shifted quickly, as the number of people with no religion rose by 22 points since 2011 to reach 39.2%. Over half the population still identifies as Christian.

Educational qualifications are much lower than in most areas, with only 12.1% of adults holding a bachelor degree. Year 12 completion also sits far below the national figure at 38.7%.

Typical incomes are well below the state and national figures, with a typical weekly household income of $1,355. Only 12.7% of households earn $3,000 or more per week.

Health challenges are common here, as 35.1% of people have a long-term health condition. This is well above the national average, and 7.9% of residents need help with daily activities.

Unpaid care is a significant part of local life, with 14.9% of people providing such support. This is among the highest rates for similar areas.

The First Nations community is a prominent part of the town, with 1,018 people identifying as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander. This group is noticeably younger than the general population, with a typical age of 18.

Homes tend to be larger than average, with 2.6 people per household. One-parent families make up 17.9% of the community, which is well above the national figure.

Housing is dominated by separate houses, which make up 91.2% of dwellings. Home ownership is strong, with 40.1% of homes owned outright, far above the national figure of 31%.

Cars are essential, as only 0.3% of people commute by public transport. Very few residents work from home (9.5%), which is far below the New South Wales average of 31%.

The town is seeing significant movement, with 41.6% of people having moved in the last five years. However, recent arrivals from overseas remain very low at 4.6%.

The local workforce is largely employed in health care and social assistance, and construction. Only 55.3% of adults are working or looking for work, which is well below the national average.

Wauchope has a mid-range level of access to money and resources but ranks quite low for overall advantage compared to other areas. There are 1,133 businesses operating in the town.

The area is very wet, with an average annual rainfall of 1,376mm, which is far above the New South Wales average of 515mm.

The town is mostly car-dependent, with a low walkability score of 3.4. Many residents live far from essential services, as only 37.7% can walk to groceries within 15 minutes.