Smiths Lake

This is an older community, where the typical resident is 49 and over a quarter of the population is aged 65 or more. De facto relationships are also much more common here than in most other areas.

The population is predominantly Australian born, with 78.9% born here. Those born overseas make up 12.4% of the community, which is far below the New South Wales figure.

English is the primary language for 89.3% of residents. Only 3.5% of people use another language at home, a figure far below the state and national averages.

Over half the community (50.8%) reports having no religion, which is far above the national figure of 38.9%.

While 17.2% of adults hold a bachelor degree or higher, this is well below the national average. Year 12 completion sits at 43.5%, also far below the state figure.

Incomes are generally low, with the typical household earning $1,210 a week, which is well below the national figure. Only 11% of households earn $3,000 or more weekly.

Long-term health conditions are more common here than in most areas, affecting 31.2% of residents. Arthritis is the most reported condition at 11.4%.

Unpaid housework is very common, with 28.8% of people doing 15 or more hours a week, well above the national figure. There is also a higher rate of former Defence Force members than in most areas.

First Nations people make up 3.8% of the population. In this group, the typical age is 27, and the typical personal income is $487, which is a little below the national figure.

Homes are generally smaller in size, with 2.3 people per dwelling. Single-parent families are much more common here than in most other areas, making up 15.6% of households.

Housing is dominated by large, detached homes, with 86.6% having three or more bedrooms. Nearly half (46.7%) of these homes are owned outright, far above the national figure.

Cars are essential, as 0% of the population commutes by public transport. However, 91.7% of homes are within a 10-minute walk of a transport stop.

The area has seen significant movement, with 39.7% of people moving house in the last five years. Recent arrivals from overseas are uncommon, at just 3%.

Fewer adults are working or looking for work (50.5%) compared to the national figure. The most common industries for those employed are construction, health, and hospitality.

The area is mostly car-dependent, with a walkability score of 3.8. While most residents can walk to groceries, no one lives within a 15-minute walk of a school or health service.