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Parramatta, a dynamic suburb nestled in the heart of Greater Western Sydney, has experienced significant demographic shifts in recent years, reflecting its evolution into a thriving multicultural hub. As revealed by the 2016 census conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Parramatta's population stood at 25,798, marking a substantial increase from previous years.
Ethnic diversity thrives within Parramatta, with India emerging as the most common country of birth, representing 29.8% of the population. Notably, Australian-born residents constitute 24.3%, showcasing the suburb's cosmopolitan character. Other prominent birthplaces include China, the Philippines, South Korea, and Nepal, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of cultures. Despite this diversity, only a fraction, 6.5%, identify their ancestry as Australian, underscoring the suburb's multicultural roots.
Religiously, Parramatta reflects a spectrum of beliefs, with Hinduism emerging as the most common response at 28.5%, followed closely by "No Religion" at 21.4%. Catholicism, Unstated, and Islam also hold significant presence, highlighting the suburb's religious pluralism and tolerance.
Age distribution in Parramatta paints a picture of youthful vigor, with a median age of 31 years, compared to the national median of 37. While children under 15 years constitute 16.2% of the population, those aged 65 years and over make up 6.8%, indicating a balanced age distribution favoring young adults.
In terms of income, Parramatta residents boast an average weekly household income of $1,739, surpassing the national average of $1,234, reflecting the suburb's economic vitality and prosperity.
Housing trends reveal a preference for apartment living, with 81.6% of dwellings categorized as flats, units, or apartments. Separate houses account for 10.2%, while semi-detached dwellings comprise 6.7%, reflecting Parramatta's urban density and vertical growth.
Parramatta's rich history is further enriched by its notable residents, including sports figures, artists, activists, and scholars, who have left an indelible mark on the suburb's cultural legacy.
Education plays a pivotal role in shaping Parramatta's future, with a range of primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions catering to diverse learning needs. From the oldest public school, Arthur Phillip High School, to esteemed Catholic institutions like Our Lady of Mercy College, Parramatta's educational landscape embodies excellence and innovation.
As Parramatta continues to thrive and grow, its demographics serve as a testament to its resilience, openness, and inclusive spirit, fostering a vibrant community that embraces diversity and celebrates unity amidst change and progress.