Australia has been ranked one of the top 15 countries in the world to raise a family, and it’s hard to disagree. Our kids grow up in a place where good quality homegrown produce is the norm, crime rates are low, playgrounds and parks are around every corner, internationally admired beaches are on our doorstep, and, of course, Vegemite toast, babyccinos and fairy bread are all acceptable breakfast foods. Not all suburbs across our fair land are created equal, however. While unique factors might come into play for your family, most of us agree that quality schools, proximity of amenities, housing affordability and decent employment opportunities are the backbone of our wish list. So, where do you find these unicorn suburbs?
We’ve considered these key family-friendly characteristics and collated a list of eight of the top Australian suburbs for raising a family, presented in no particular order.
Subiaco, Perth, WA
Ranked as the most liveable place in Australia in the 2023 Australia Liveability Census, Subiaco is the perfect place to raise your family and see potential gains in your property investment. While the median house price is currently on the high side – sitting around $1,600,000 – it’s continuing on its upward trajectory and pegged for further growth over the coming years. Subiaco’s growing appeal comes from its proximity to the Perth CBD (only 6kms away), its abundance of highly rated schools of all levels, the bustling sporting and event hub, the Subiaco Oval, a fantastic Farmers Market, a strong sense of community, and shopping and dining options aplenty. Think you could see your tribe fitting into Subiaco life? Reach out to First National Real Estate Genesis for expert local insight into the area.
Camberwell, Melbourne, VI
Another Australian Liveability Census front-runner, Camberwell in Boroondara Municipality, Victoria, is a prestigious and popular suburb for families. The current median house price of $2,500,000 means it’s not accessible for everyone; however, for families looking for something in that price range, you can’t go past Camberwell. It’s got a reputation for excellent schooling, has a mix of stately grand homes, historic residences, and newer modern homes, enjoys fantastic transport links to the CBD and offers families the perfect blend of an urban and suburban lifestyle. Camberwell has been pinpointed as an area for growth and investment in the Melbourne 2030 Metropolitan Strategy, too, making it a fabulous place to raise a family and a smart investment. Is your family ready to make a move? For the best guidance on the area, speak to a local at First National Real Estate Janssen & Co.
Amaroo, Canberra, ACT
Amaroo is a known crowd favourite in Canberra, a real paradise for families. Here, you’ll find local universities like the University of Canberra College, well-revered local schools, spacious private homes with big backyards, expansive parklands, walking reserves, and a vibrant, neighbourly atmosphere. Also on Amaroo’s side is its lively local village – where you’ll find most of what you need – and it’s a very reasonable 25-minute commute to Canberra CBD. Median house prices are around $950,000 with median gross yields of 3.7%, making it a great place to settle down with the potential for future growth.
Palmerston, Darwin, NT
Hugely popular with young families, Palmerston is the second largest city in the Northern Territory and just 20km from Darwin’s CBD. The area is on the cusp of significant infrastructure developments over the next few years; however, it is already well-serviced with shopping centres, libraries, a huge (and free) waterpark and some of the Northern Territory’s top-ranked education options. Palmerston also has plenty of picturesque green spaces and well-kept bike paths, making it popular for lovers of an outdoor lifestyle. Considering putting down roots in Palmerston? First National Real EstateO'Donoghues know Darwin property inside and out. Get in touch today and gain valuable local insight.
Moonah, Hobart, TA 
With a demographic of mostly families and young professionals, Moonah is favoured as a place to call home thanks to its low crime rate, quiet, wide streets, and excellent access to public transport. Bordered by the charming backdrop of the Derwent River, Moonah is jam-packed with outdoor activities like walking, cycling and beachgoing, and also boasts an impressive foodie scene with a cluster of great restaurants around Main Road. A current median house price of $600,000 makes Moonah an affordable up-and-coming suburb for young families and first-home buyers.
Lane Cove, Sydney, NSW
Lush, leafy Lane Cove sits in the heart of the Lower North Shore of Sydney, and while only a 20-minute bus or drive from the CBD, its village-like atmosphere means you’ll feel a world away from the bustling metropolis. It’s a sought-after suburb for young families thanks to fantastic schooling options, abundant amenities, and a central location. There’s also a thriving community vibe, plenty of parks and playgrounds, and a bustling town centre replete with restaurants, cafes, and supermarkets. There really isn’t any need to leave – which can be useful with little tikes in tow. Could a move to the ‘burbs of Sydney be on the cards for your family? Chat with the First National Real Estate Regency Realty team for the best local advice and guidance on Lane Cove and its surrounds.
Banksia Park, Adelaide, SA
Just northeast of Adelaide's city centre, Banksia Park is a suburb on the rise. Surrounded by parks, ovals and walking trails, it’s a great choice for those looking for a family-friendly suburb with a strong sense of community and a peaceful lifestyle – while remaining easily connected to vibrant city life. It’s also home to plenty of quality schools like Banksia Park International High School, which has low crime rates and a relatively affordable median house price of $628,000. This has crept up nearly 4% year on year, indicating that the appeal of Banksia is no secret! Contact the local team at First National Real Estate Burton Groves for the inside scoop on setting down roots for your family in Banksia Park.
Indoorpilly, Brisbane, QLD 
Indooroopilly, or Indo, as it’s known to locals, is a lovely green suburb nestled alongside the Brisbane River. Add to this some of Queensland’s best secondary schools, a park around every corner, easy access to public transport and just a 7km commute to the CBD, and it’s easy to see why it's become a popular pick for families. There’s also a Westfield Shopping Centre, a café precinct, and some stunning large family homes to further seal the deal. With a median house price of $1,400,000 and an almost 2% growth year on year, you’d be best to secure your prized slice of Indooroopilly sooner rather than later. Contact the local experts at First National Real Estate Metro today.
Find your home-sweet suburbia
Whether it's by the beach or among towering gum trees, we’re blessed to live in a country that is among the very best for bringing up children. And across Australia, there are some particularly fantastic family-friendly suburbs where the living is easy, and our kids are destined to thrive. If any of the locations explored in this article have you thinking about creating a new home base for your family, reach out to your local First National Real Estate team. We’ll provide you with exclusive local area insights and help you find the perfect home-sweet home for your tribe.
DISCLAIMER
The following advice is of a general nature only and intended as a broad guide. The advice should not be regarded as legal, financial, or real estate advice. You should make your own inquiries and obtain independent professional advice tailored to your specific circumstances before making any legal, financial, or real estate decisions. Click here for full Terms of Use.