Blackwater

Population
4,618
Nearest Capital
795km
Nearest Airport
Emerald airport 80km
Median house price
$255,000
Oct temp (°C)
31 / 18

Living in Blackwater

Welcome to Blackwater, the Coal Capital of Queensland, where rewarding careers and a family-friendly lifestyle come together.

Education is available from early learning through to high school, and the town’s new hospital, opened in 2025, provides modern healthcare for residents. Homes are more affordable than in metro areas, and NBN full-fibre keeps you well connected to work, family, and friends.

Shops cover daily essentials, and for anything extra, Emerald is just a short 50 minute drive away. Outdoor enthusiasts have plenty to explore, from Bedford Weir, a local favourite for camping, fishing, and water sports, to Blackdown Tableland National Park, with walking trails, scenic lookouts, and the stunning Gudda Gumoo (Rainbow Falls). The town also features beautiful green spaces, including the Japanese Gardens and Ghungalu Nunee.

Life in Blackwater revolves around community and recreation. Team sports, local events, and family activities are popular, and with many residents having moved for work, newcomers quickly find themselves part of a supportive, like-minded network.

The town is supported by five nearby coal mines, providing a variety of jobs that help drive the local economy and attract skilled workers to the region.

Community

Blackwater’s community is hardworking, close-knit, and welcoming—strong mining roots, country hospitality, and a mix of families and professionals.

Amenities within 25km of Blackwater

Except hospitals & libraries, which are based on a radius of 50km

Post Office
3
Library
2
Bars & Eateries
22
Doctors & Allied Health
4
Hospital
2
Groceries & Convenience
1

Data source: Department of Health Commonwealth declared hospitals [2021], Australia Post. Google [2021]

Jobs

Blackwater offers strong job opportunities in mining, trades, hospitality, administration, and support services—ideal for skilled and entry-level workers.

Jobs in Blackwater

Median Salary Per Year
$53,900
Median Personal Income Per Week
$1,036
Median Family Income Per Week
$1,094

Data source: ABS [2016, 2017]

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Moving to Blackwater as a teacher has definitely allowed me to develop my skills a lot quicker. I've been able to move through the ranks and had extra opportunities that I don't think I would have been given elsewhere. Abbey

Housing

Blackwater housing is affordable, with rising values, high rental yields, and strong demand—ideal for investors and families alike.

Comparison to median State house price
-59%

Property in Blackwater

Median House Price
$255,000
Rental House Median Price Per Month
$792
Attached Dwelling Median Price
$266,500

Data source: ABS, [2019], LGA updated [2021], Corelogic [2025]

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    Education

    Blackwater offers public schooling, TAFE pathways, and university access—ideal for practical learning, apprenticeships, and career-focused education.

    Number of Institutions
    7

    Schools And Universities in Blackwater

    Education within 25KM of Blackwater

    Childcare Centres
    4
    c&k blackwater community kindergarten
    c&k blackwater community childcare centre
    Secondary Schools
    1

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    Towns Nearby

    Towns around Blackwater offer quiet living, mining-linked jobs, strong community ties, and access to nature and regional services.

     

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