Fernleigh
NSW 2479 • New South Wales
About Fernleigh
Fernleigh is a small rural locality in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, situated in the hinterland between Lismore and Ballina. With a population of around 298 residents, it covers approximately 11.5 square kilometres of gently rolling farmland and subtropical bushland. The area falls within the Richmond federal electorate and is known for its quiet semi-rural character, attracting those who value space and privacy within reach of coastal amenities.
Life in Fernleigh revolves around the natural landscape, with residents drawn to hobby farming, bush walking, and the relaxed pace of rural living. The nearby towns of Lismore and Ballina provide access to schools, supermarkets, medical services, and the broader Northern Rivers community. Fernleigh sits within a region celebrated for its lush green scenery, diverse birdlife, and proximity to some of Australia's most iconic beaches along the Byron Bay coastline.
Fernleigh falls under postcode 2479 and is governed by the Ballina Council (Local Government Area). For federal elections, residents vote in the electorate of Richmond, while state elections fall under the Lismore electorate.
Location
Ad
Income
ATO taxable income Postcode 2479
Median taxable income for individual taxpayers in postcode 2479, comparing the 2019–20 and 2023–24 financial years.
Source: ATO Taxation Statistics 2023–24, Individuals Table 8 (median & average taxable income by postcode). Covers all individuals who lodged a return in postcode 2479; postcodes with fewer than 200 lodgments are suppressed by the ATO.
Transport & Commute
Commute to Lismore
🛣️ Car is the primary mode of transport; Lismore is the nearest major service centre
No footpaths or public transport; a private vehicle is essential for all daily needs
Supermarkets Nearby
No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.
Schools
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Bangalow Public School ICSEA 10886687 1434 45-71 Byron St
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Coorabell Public School ICSEA 10666684 7281 21 Mango Lane
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Fernleigh Public School ICSEA 1032451 Fernleigh Rd
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Newrybar Public School ICSEA 108202 6687 1343 10 Broken Head Road
Demographics
Population Growth
Gender Distribution (Census 2021)
Crime Statistics LGA-wide
These are the latest 2025 rates for the Ballina Local Government Area, which contains Fernleigh. Rates are per 100,000 residents; trends compare 2 and 10 year periods ending Dec 2025.
Source: NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR)