Myrtleford

Myrtleford is far older than the state and national average, with 27.6% of people aged 65 and over. This shift is clear in the trends, as the typical age has risen to 50 and the number of children has fallen since 2011.

The community is predominantly Australian-born, with only 14.3% born overseas, which is far below the national figure. Italian ancestry is notably common here, making up 18.4% of the population.

English is the main language for 84.7% of residents. Only 10.2% use another language at home, a figure far below the Victorian average.

Most residents identify as Christian, though the number of people with no religion has risen sharply by 18 points since 2011 to reach 36.6%.

Education levels are much lower than in most areas, with only 41.8% of residents completing Year 12. However, this has improved by 11 points since 2011.

Typical weekly household income is $1,226, which is well below the national figure. Only 11.6% of households earn $3,000 or more a week, though this is higher than it was in 2011.

Health needs are high here, with 34.2% of people living with a long-term condition. This is well above the national figure, and 7.5% of residents need help with daily activities.

Volunteerism is much higher than in most areas, with 19.5% of people volunteering. Unpaid care is also common, with 14.6% of the community providing support to others.

There are 72 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the area. The typical age for First Nations residents is 28, which is noticeably older than the state average.

Living arrangements are often smaller, with 29.8% of people living alone. This is well above the national average, and the typical home has only 2.3 people.

Housing is very stable, with 47.5% of homes owned outright and 93.7% being separate houses. Weekly rent is much lower than the national figure at $250.

Cars are essential here, as 61.5% of workers drive to work and only 0.4% use public transport. Most homes have at least one vehicle, and 39.7% have two.

The population is relatively stable, as the 31.8% who moved in the last five years is well below the national figure. Recent overseas arrivals make up 8.7% of the community.

Unemployment is very low at 2.5%, which is a little below the national figure. Many locals work in health care, manufacturing, or agriculture.

The town has a lower overall advantage score than 69% of similar areas. Recent population growth has also been among the lowest in the region, falling by 1.7% since 2021.

Myrtleford is wetter than most of Victoria, with average annual rainfall of 1,072mm. Temperatures are slightly lower than the state average.

The area is only somewhat walkable, and only 49.1% of homes are within a 15-minute walk of basic amenities. Public transport is very limited, with a typical walk to the nearest stop taking 83 minutes.