Paynes Crossing

The area is far older than the state and national figures, with 48% of people aged 65 and over. In contrast, children under 15 make up only 8% of the population, which is far below the national average of 18.2%.

While 78% of residents were born in Australia, 20% were born overseas, a figure much higher than in most similar areas. English is the most common ancestry at 64%.

English is the only language used at home, and no one in the community speaks little or no English. This is far below the national figure of 22.3% for people using another language at home.

A large majority of residents, 66%, report having no religion. This is far above the national figure of 38.9%.

The community is relatively well qualified, with 24.4% of adults holding a bachelor degree or higher. Over half of residents have completed Year 12, though this is still well below the state average.

Typical weekly personal income is just $409, far below the national figure of $805. Despite this, 24.4% of people earn $2,000 or more a week, which is far above the national average.

Reflecting the older age of the community, 12% of people need help with daily activities, which is well above the national figure of 5.8%.

Community spirit is high, with 24.4% of residents volunteering, far above the state average of 13%. Additionally, 12.5% of people have served in the Defence Force, a much higher rate than most areas.

There are no Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people recorded in this area.

Most homes are occupied by couples without children, though one-parent families make up 26.3% of the group, which is far above the national figure of 14.1%.

Typical weekly rent is $330, which is well below the New South Wales average of $420. Monthly home-loan payments typically average $1,992.

The area is entirely dependent on cars, as there are no public transport stops or routes available. The drive to the city is very long, taking about 235 minutes.

The community has seen significant movement recently, with 41.8% of people moving in the last five years, a figure slightly above the national average.

Only 44.4% of adults are working or looking for work, far below the national figure of 61.1%. The unemployment rate is very high at 20.0%.

The area is completely car-dependent with a walkability score of 0.0. There are no shops, health services or schools within a 15-minute walk, and the terrain is quite steep.