Urban Centre · Area profile
Walkerston
4 km²
A population increase of 91% since 2011 has transformed Walkerston into a rapidly growing community of 3,567 people. It is a strikingly young area where the typical resident is just 35, and children make up nearly a quarter of the population. This growth is matched by rising wealth, with typical family incomes now well above the national figure. It is a place of large family homes and high employment, situated in the Mackay region of Queensland.
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The community is noticeably younger than the state and national average, with children under 15 making up 23% of the population. Meanwhile, seniors aged 65 and over are well below the national figure at 12.6%.
The area is far less diverse than most of Australia, with 84.2% of residents born in Australia and only 6% born overseas. English, Scottish, and Irish ancestries are the most common following Australian.
English is the primary language for almost everyone here, with only 1.7% of people using another language at home, which is far below the national figure.
Religious affiliation is higher here than in most areas, as the 35.1% of people reporting no religion is well below the national figure.
While a very small number of residents hold a bachelor degree, a higher than usual 43% have completed Year 12. Many adults hold a Certificate III or IV, which is the most common qualification level.
Income levels are high and have risen sharply since 2011, with a typical family now earning $2,445 a week. This is well above the national figure, and 24.9% of households earn $3,000 or more weekly.
Residents are generally healthier than those in most other areas, with much lower rates of long-term health conditions and fewer people needing help with daily activities.
Caring for children is a common unpaid activity here, with 31.3% of people doing so, which is well above the national figure. However, volunteering is slightly below the state average.
Homes are typically larger than average with 2.7 people per household, reflecting a high proportion of couples with children. People living alone are much less common than in most areas.
The landscape is dominated by separate houses, with 88.3% of homes having three or more bedrooms. While rental rates have fallen since 2011, typical weekly rents remain around $360.
Cars are essential here, as only 2.5% of homes have no motor vehicle. Very few people work from home, at a rate far below the national figure.
The area has become more stable over time, as the proportion of people who moved in the last five years fell significantly since 2011. Recent overseas arrivals are also well below the national average.
The job market is strong, with a very low unemployment rate of 2.6% and a higher than average proportion of full-time workers. Many residents work in mining, health care, or retail.
The area is somewhat walkable, and almost every home is within a short walk of a park. However, fewer people can walk to schools or groceries compared to the state average.