Woy Woy

The community is far older than the state and national averages, with 28.1% of residents aged 65 and over. This is reflected in a smaller number of children, as those under 15 make up only 15.1% of the population.

English and Australian are the most common ancestries, with 41.6% and 38.0% respectively. While 19% of residents were born overseas, this is well below the national figure of 27.7%.

English is the main language for 85.1% of the community. About 9.1% of people use another language at home, which is much higher than in similar areas, though still far below the state average.

About 40.4% of residents report no religion, which is a little above the national figure. Christianity remains the most common affiliation at 49.1%.

Educational attainment is far below the state average, with only 15.1% of adults holding a bachelor degree or higher. Around 41.5% of residents completed Year 12, which is also well below the national figure.

Household incomes are much lower than in most areas, with a typical weekly household income of $1,151. This is well below the national figure of $1,746.

Health needs are high here, with 38.6% of people living with a long-term health condition—far above the national figure of 27.7%. Consequently, the proportion of people needing help with daily activities is also much higher than most areas.

Volunteering is much lower than in most areas at 10.4%. However, 12.9% of the community provide unpaid care, which is a little above the state average.

Woy Woy has one of the largest First Nations populations at this level. This community faces challenges with a lower Year 12 completion rate of 29.6% and an unemployment rate of 13.7%, which is well above the state average.

Living arrangements are distinctive, with 37.1% of people living alone—far above the national figure. One-parent families are also much more common here than in most areas.

Rental demand is high, as 38.3% of households rent, which is well above the state average. The housing stock is smaller than usual, with only 63% of homes having three or more bedrooms.

Public transport is a major feature, with a very high number of stops and a commuting rate that is a little above the national figure. This is reflected in the fact that 15.6% of homes have no motor vehicle, which is well above the national figure.

About 37% of residents have moved in the last five years, which is higher than in most similar areas. Recent overseas arrivals make up 6% of the population, well below the national average.

Fewer adults are working or looking for work compared to the state average, at 46.7%. The unemployment rate of 6.4% is a little above the national figure, with many residents working in health care and social assistance.

The area is very walkable, with 99.9% of homes within a 10-minute walk of public transport and a park. Most residents can also reach health services and schools within a 15-minute walk.