Coffs Harbour – LGA

• Population 79,423, 15% of the North Coast population. Projected to increase by 2% by 2031 (compared to 5% increase North Coast).
• Population density: 67 residents per km2 (17 per km2 North Coast).
• 6% identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander (6% North Coast).
• Median age 44 (47 North Coast, 39 NSW) lowest across the North Coast LGAs.
• 7% of population born in non-English speaking countries (1% North Coast, 19% NSW, 16% Australia).
• 23% aged 65 years or over, projected to increase by 16% by 2031 (18% increase North Coast and 29% NSW).

• Nearly 1 in 4 children assessed as vulnerable in one or more areas of early childhood development
• Full immunisation rates for children are similar to the NSW and Australian rates
  • 95% of 1-year-old children (94% in NSW and Australia)
  • 92% of 2-year-old children (92% NSW and Australia)
  • 95% of 5-year-old children (94% NSW and Australia).

• • 60% of people aged 65 years and over had at least one long-term health condition.
  • 2% of the population live with dementia (2% NSW and Australia). Expected to increase as the 65 years and over population increases.
  • 53% of survey respondents reported the ageing population is one of the most serious health concerns in the community.
  • 57% of survey respondents found accessing services for older people difficult. Challenges included a lack of services and difficulty in organising services.

Opportunity: Enhance healthy ageing strategies and targeted preventative health initiatives. Continue to work in partnership to support recruitment and retention of the healthcare workforce and enhance integration and coordination of care. 

Did you know: Care finders is a free service. It exists to support vulnerable people who have no one else who can support them to learn about, Care Finders. 

HNC works in partnership with Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations to improve health outcomes for Aboriginal people. Galambila Aboriginal Health Service provides culturally appropriate primary healthcare services and support to Coffs Harbour’s Aboriginal population including chronic conditions management, child and maternal health, mental health, health checks, allied health, youth dental and outreach to Yarrawarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Pete’s Place.

• 26% of people had an Aboriginal health check in Coffs Harbour  – Coastal SA3 

Connection to country and culture is key for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander peoples social and emotional wellbeing. Programs that Aboriginal peoples identified to help keep Aboriginal communities healthy and strong:

• Exercise and fitness
• Women’s health
• Art and cultural programs
• Yarning circles
• Health screening services

• 61 per 1,000 people need assistance due to age or severe disability (75 per 1,000 North Coast, 58 per 1,000 NSW). 
• 2% of people report very low proficiency in English (5% NSW). Higher than the North Coast average.
• 10 per 1,000 people experienced domestic and family violence. Increased 37% from 2021, the second highest in the North Coast and higher than NSW average (4 per 1,000).
• The median total personal income was $688 per week ($652 North Coast) (NSW $813).
• Index of Relative Socio-Economic Disadvantage (IRSD) score of 972.
• 4 in 5 survey respondents indicated housing availability as a concern in the community. Other areas of concern are cost of living and problematic alcohol and other drug use.

Opportunity: Through partnerships, increase and strengthen access to health supports and care for people impacted by family and domestic violence.

• 2 in 1000 people experience homelessness (4 in 1000 in North Coast and NSW, 9 in 1000 in Australia).
• 3 in 1000 people at risk of homelessness (4 in 1000 in North Coast, NSW and 7 in 1000 in Australia).
• 624 people experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. This is the second highest number in the North Coast region.

There is limited availability of affordable housing in the Coffs Harbour LGA. Of the 120 rental properties available

• 2 properties were affordable to a couple with 2 children on minimum wage receiving FTB A and B
• no other properties were affordable for individuals or couples receiving benefits and pensions or on minimum wage.

Adequate access to affordable housing is fundamental to the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities.

• 38% single or lone households (25% NSW) and 9% group homes (4% NSW)

Social isolation can increase health risks.

Opportunity: Enhance support by integrating services for individuals experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity.