Data Domain Archives - Page 2 of 5

What’s The Difference Between Proptech and Contech?

Sep 16, 2024 | Data Domain

In real estate and construction, proptech and contech have emerged in more recent years with the potential to disrupt and digitise.

These technologies are driving innovation across industries, yet they each serve distinct roles.

We uncover the nuances and distinctions between proptech and contech here.

Defining Proptech and Contech

Proptech

Proptech is the broad umbrella term encompassing all digital innovations that enhance and streamline processes within the real estate industry.

It covers everything from property management and transactions to marketing and customer engagement.

While its reach can extend to the construction phase of property development, proptech’s focus is on optimising the entire lifecycle of real estate—from conception to management.

Here are examples of startups and more established proptech companies making waves in real estate:

Archistar specialises in AI-driven architectural design and property analytics, helping developers and architects assess building potential.
Propic uses AI and machine learning to enhance real estate processes such as sales, property management and customer service automation.
Little Hinges specialises in digital property marketing solutions with virtual property tours, floorplans, virtual staging, global platform and an Insights portal.
Equiem provides tenant engagement technology for commercial real estate, focusing on improving communication and services between landlords and tenants.
CoreLogic, a provider of financial, property, consumer information services known for their comprehensive real estate data services, is also a leading player in AI-powered housing data and analytics.
AirBNB is well known as a short-term rental platform, however, Airbnb’s disruption and influence on the traditional property management and rental markets has defined its role in the proptech sector.
Zillow is a comprehensive platform connecting renters, buyers and sellers to facilitate seamless transitions into their dream homes.

Contech

While proptech may briefly address construction, contech is solely focused on the construction process, providing solutions that improves safety, efficiency and/or precision on the job site. In general, it refers to the technologies that directly impact the planning, design and building of structures.

Here are some notable contech companies making an impact on the construction industry:

Autodesk is known for their Design and Make Platform for planning, design, construction and project operation.
Procore’s cloud-based construction management platform streamlines every process from pre-construction to closeout.
Built Robotics has a mission to build the robots that build the world.
Rhumbix is a software company which consolidates and digitises field reporting workflows into one app.
Matterport is a spatial data company focused on digitising and indexing the built world with their all-in-one 3D data platform.
cmBuilder offers 4D construction site logistics with fast & easy cloud-based workflows, powerful sequencing simulation capabilities, and unparalleled real-time collaboration.

Key Differences Between Proptech and Contech

Scope of Application:

Proptech covers a broad spectrum of digital tools and platforms used across the real estate industry, including everything from smart property management systems to online marketplaces that simplify buying, selling, and renting properties.
Contech is focused on the construction phase of property development. It involves tools and technologies that assist architects, engineers and builders in creating physical structures, from advanced construction materials to innovative design software.

Target Audience:

Proptech primarily targets real estate professionals, including developers, property managers, realtors, investors, and tenants. Its tools are designed to enhance customer experiences, streamline transactions and provide valuable market insights.
Contech caters specifically to construction professionals—architects, contractors, engineers, and construction workers— with a focus on improving the efficiency, safety and/or quality of the construction process.

Technological Impact:

Proptech typically integrates technologies such as Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, Virtual and Augmented Reality, IoT and Blockchain. These innovations have the power to transform traditional real estate practices, offering smarter, more efficient ways to manage properties, conduct transactions and interact with clients.
Contech typically leverages technologies like Building Information Modeling (BIM), prefabrication, robotics, drones or wearable tech. These tools are generally designed to enhance and optimise the construction process, reduce risks and improve productivity on-site.

Proptech and Contech: Better Together

While proptech and contech operate in different domains, their intersection is where the magic happens.

Proptech’s digital solutions often complement contech’s innovations, creating a seamless flow from project planning and construction to property management and sales.

For instance, a real estate developer might use contech to design and build a property, then rely on proptech platforms to market, lease or sell the units.

Proptech and contech both offer powerful tools that drive efficiency, safety and profitability in real estate and construction.

By leveraging these technologies, professionals can navigate industry complexities with greater agility and success.

At The Proptech Cloud, we believe in the game-changing power of both proptech and contech.

Together, they’re reshaping the future of real estate—one innovative solution at a time.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Subscribe to receive the latest blogs and data listings direct to your inbox.

Alternative Data: What Is It, Who Uses It And Why It Matters

Discover the powerful intel alternative data can offer. Learn why businesses and investors are turning to non-traditional data sources for deeper insights and smarter decisions.

What Is A Geohash And How Is It Used?

Discover what a geohash is, how it works, and its real-world applications in mapping, logistics and data analysis.

What Is A Cadastre?

Learn how cadastres capture property boundaries, ownership details, and values, and see how technology is transforming them with 3D models, GIS and digital platforms.

Top Property and Proptech Events in Australia 2025

These industry events provide valuable opportunities to learn from industry leaders, explore emerging technologies, and network with peers who are shaping the future of the sector.

The Shifting Landscape of Property Ownership in Australia

Uncover the ways in which fintech and proptech are revolutionising property ownership in Australia, making it more accessible and dynamic than ever before.

What is a Coordinate Reference System (CRS)?

Sep 12, 2024 | Data Domain

TL;DR

A Coordinate Reference System (CRS) is a framework that uses coordinates to accurately locate places on Earth’s surface.

In real estate, CRS is crucial for defining property boundaries, aiding in surveys, mapping, and even in property valuation.

There are different types of CRS, each serving specific mapping needs.

For property and urban planning, CRS ensures precise land registration, zoning, and infrastructure development, helping reduce disputes and enhance planning accuracy.

Imagine you’re taking part in a global treasure hunt or a real-life challenge like The Amazing Race, where the Earth itself is your game board. To navigate to your next destination, you rely on a giant map. But how do you know where exactly to go? You need a set of rules to interpret the map accurately and describe specific locations.

This is where a Coordinate Reference System (CRS) comes in.

Think of CRS like a universal language for maps, providing a framework for assigning coordinates (like X and Y on a grid) to different locations on Earth.

With this system in place, everyone can refer to the same locations using a consistent method, ensuring clarity and accuracy when navigating or sharing geographic data.

Let’s dive deeper into what a CRS is and why it’s essential for interpreting the world around us.

Coordinate Reference System (CRS)

A Coordinate Reference System (CRS) is a system that uses numbers to precisely pinpoint locations on maps or the Earth’s surface, ensuring everyone uses the same rules for describing positions.

By defining sets of coordinates and a standardised framework, it offers a consistent way to specify locations, making it possible for maps and geographic data to be accurately interpreted and shared.

A CRS typically includes a reference point, a set of axes, and a unit of measurement.

What is a CRS used for?

A Coordinate Reference System (CRS) is used to accurately represent, map, and interpret coordinates in a specific geographic or projected space. It enables precise location referencing on the Earth’s surface, ensuring that geographic data can be shared and understood consistently.

CRS is widely used in geography to study the Earth’s physical features, environments, and human interactions with these landscapes. It’s also crucial in cartography, where it ensures that maps are created with accurate geographic information, allowing for reliable navigation and analysis across various fields and applications.

Different Types of CRS

Geographic CRS: Based on a spherical or ellipsoidal model of the Earth’s surface, commonly using latitude and longitude coordinates.
Projected CRS: Maps the three-dimensional spherical or ellipsoidal Earth onto a two-dimensional plane, such as a map or a flat surface. Examples include Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) and State Plane Coordinate Systems.
Vertical CRS: Specifies elevations or depths relative to a reference surface (e.g., sea level).

Some examples of commonly used CRS include:

Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) system,
Geographic Coordinate System (GCS), and the
Military Grid Reference System (MGRS).

Practical applications of CRS in property and real estate

Coordinate Reference Systems (CRS) play a vital role in real estate and proptech by providing a standardised way to accurately represent geographic locations. Here are some practical applications:

Property Mapping and Visualisation

CRS allows for exact delineation of property boundaries, and accurate property boundaries are essential for legal and planning purposes.
CRS can be used by proptechs to create interactive property maps, allowing users to explore listings in a spatial context.

Location-Based Services

CRS can be used to calculate distances between properties and amenities like schools, parks, or public transport for proximity analysis.
Create virtual boundaries, or geofences, around properties for targeted marketing or notifications.

Urban Planning and Development

Ensure new developments comply with local zoning regulations by accurately positioning them within zoning maps.
Precise spatial data derived from CRS can be used in the planning of utilities and infrastructure for new real estate developments

Property Valuation

Accurately analyse and compare property locations, boundaries and size, and their impact on value.
Determine a property’s elevation and proximity to flood zones for risk assessment and insurance purposes.

Virtual and Augmented Reality

Virtual property tours are possible with the creation of georeferenced 3D models of properties.
Overlay property information on real-world views using mobile devices for use in augmented reality applications.

Data Integration and Analysis

Combine property data with other geographic information like demographics, crime rates, or environmental data for comprehensive analysis.
Perform complex spatial queries to identify properties meeting specific geographic criteria.

As can be seen in these examples, by leveraging Coordinate Reference Systems, real estate professionals and proptech companies can provide more accurate, data-driven services and make better-informed decisions based on spatial relationships and geographic context.

Originally published: 4 October, 2023

Last updated: 12 September, 2024

Alternative Data: What Is It, Who Uses It And Why It Matters

Discover the powerful intel alternative data can offer. Learn why businesses and investors are turning to non-traditional data sources for deeper insights and smarter decisions.

What Is A Geohash And How Is It Used?

Discover what a geohash is, how it works, and its real-world applications in mapping, logistics and data analysis.

What Is A Cadastre?

Learn how cadastres capture property boundaries, ownership details, and values, and see how technology is transforming them with 3D models, GIS and digital platforms.

Top Property and Proptech Events in Australia 2025

These industry events provide valuable opportunities to learn from industry leaders, explore emerging technologies, and network with peers who are shaping the future of the sector.

The Shifting Landscape of Property Ownership in Australia

Uncover the ways in which fintech and proptech are revolutionising property ownership in Australia, making it more accessible and dynamic than ever before.

The Property Lifecycle

Aug 22, 2024 | Data Domain

Discover the property lifecycle and how it brings together various sectors such as government, legal, construction, finance, and insurance, while connecting a wide range of professionals.

This infographic offers a high-level overview of the key phases and processes.

Alternative Data: What Is It, Who Uses It And Why It Matters

Discover the powerful intel alternative data can offer. Learn why businesses and investors are turning to non-traditional data sources for deeper insights and smarter decisions.

What Is A Geohash And How Is It Used?

Discover what a geohash is, how it works, and its real-world applications in mapping, logistics and data analysis.

What Is A Cadastre?

Learn how cadastres capture property boundaries, ownership details, and values, and see how technology is transforming them with 3D models, GIS and digital platforms.

Top Property and Proptech Events in Australia 2025

These industry events provide valuable opportunities to learn from industry leaders, explore emerging technologies, and network with peers who are shaping the future of the sector.

The Shifting Landscape of Property Ownership in Australia

Uncover the ways in which fintech and proptech are revolutionising property ownership in Australia, making it more accessible and dynamic than ever before.

Why Is It So Difficult To Parse Addresses?

Aug 5, 2024 | Data Domain

Precise address data is fundamental to a multitude of services.

The ability to accurately dissect and interpret address components is important for the accurate delivery of mail, managing customer databases, integrating geographic information systems and more.

This blog explores what address parsing is and why it presents such unique challenges.

Discover the intricacies behind making sense of seemingly simple address data and why getting it right is more complicated than it first appears.

TL;DR

Address parsing involves breaking down addresses into their individual components (like street name, city, state, and postcode/ZIP code) to make them understandable for computers.

It’s challenging due to variations in address formats, international differences, ambiguous elements, complex building details, and lack of standardisation.

Despite these difficulties, commercial address parsers achieve high accuracy, and emerging machine learning techniques offer potential for developing custom solutions.

What is Address Parsing?

In essence, address parsing is breaking down and identifying the individual components of an address to make it more understandable and usable for computers. This process ensures that each part of the address is correctly identified, interpreted and standardised for greater accuracy in subsequent applications.

Let’s take a letter that you receive in the mailbox.

On the front, there’s a block of text with your name, street address, city (or suburb or town), state, and postcode (or ZIP code). All these combined tell the postman where to deliver the letter.

Now, let’s say you have a robot assistant, and you want to teach it to understand and organise this information.

You’d instruct the robot to recognise the different parts of the address: This part is the person’s name. This is the street they live on. This part tells us the city, and so on.

Address parsing is like teaching the robot to recognise and separate these individual parts of the address. So, instead of seeing one big block of text, the robot (or computer program) sees the address as different pieces of information:

name,
street,
city,
state, and
ZIP code/postcode.

This helps computers and software understand and manage addresses more efficiently, just like how you can easily tell apart the street name from the city when you look at the address on a letter.

Why is Address Parsing Difficult?

Address parsing is difficult because addresses vary greatly in format and structure, both within and across countries. Ambiguous elements (e.g., “St.” for “Street” or “Saint”), complex building details, misspellings and multiple languages add to the challenge.

Additionally, addresses often change due to renaming or updates, and there is very little standardisation in how people enter addresses.

These factors make it hard to create a parser that can accurately interpret all possible address variations.

These are some examples that demonstrate the complexity involved.

Example 1

Address = 64 YORK STREET SYDNEY NSW 2000.

64 = Street number,
YORK = Street name,
STREET = Street type,
SYDNEY = Suburb,
NSW = State,
2000 = Postcode

Done, why do people tell me it is difficult….?

Example 2

Address = 6/64 THE BOULEVARDE STRATHFIELD NSW 2135

6 = Unit number
64 = Street number
THE = Street name
BOULEVARDE = Street type
STRATHFIELD = Suburb
NSW = State
2135= Postcode

Wait, the street name is “THE”?
It should be the “THE BOULEVARDE”!
Boulevarde is a street type as well, but not in this instance! We need a rule for that!

Example 3

Address = WTC BLDG A / TWR 4 MATTHEW FL LEVEL 1 18-38A SIDDELEY ST, DOCKLANDS VIC 3008

This address is significantly more difficult to parse than previous examples, however the address still includes many prefixes that can assist with parsing.

It is not uncommon for many of these prefixes to removed to look more like this address:

Address = WTC A / TWR 4 MATTHEW 1 18-38A SIDDELEY ST, DOCKLANDS VIC 3008

Without the BLDG and LEVEL prefixes, we now have additional complexity to deal with.

Challenges with Address Parsing

Variability in formats
Addresses can be written in numerous formats.
For instance, “123 Maple St. Apt 4B” and “Apt 4B, 123 Maple Street” represent the same location but are formatted differently.
International differences
Different countries have different address structures. What’s common and straightforward in one country might be unusual in another. For instance, some countries might include districts or regions in their addresses, while others don’t.
Ambiguous elements
Some parts of an address can be confused for others.
For instance, “St.” could be short for “Street” or “Saint.”
Without context, determining the correct interpretation can be tough.
Complex building details
Addresses can have complex unit numbers, building names, floor numbers, and so forth.
Parsing these details correctly, especially when they’re in non-standard formats, can be difficult.
Misspellings and typos
People often make mistakes when entering addresses. A parser needs to be robust enough to handle and possibly correct common misspellings or recognise when an address might be invalid.
Multiple languages and scripts
In multilingual countries or regions, addresses might be written in different languages or scripts. Parsing these requires the program to be aware of multiple linguistic structures.
Historical changes and inconsistencies
Cities change, streets get renamed, postal codes get updated. An address parser needs to be updated regularly to account for these changes, or it should be robust enough to recognise and possibly map outdated addresses to their current counterparts.
Abbreviations and Synonyms
There are multiple ways to refer to the same thing in addresses. For example, “Avenue” might be written as “Ave,” “Av,” or “Avnue.” A parser must recognise all these variations as referring to the same concept.
Lack of standardisation
Unlike some data types where a strict format can be enforced, addresses are often entered by users who have no idea about the backend system’s preferred format.
Embedded information
Sometimes, addresses can contain extra information that’s not strictly part of the address but is crucial for delivery, like instructions or landmarks.

Is Accurate Address Parsing Possible?

Most commercial address parses achieve parsing accuracy at a rate of 97/98%+.

They achieve this through constant development, testing and refinement of their software over many years.

Is it possible to build your own address parsing solution and achieve similar results?

Maybe.

New capabilities and accessibility of machine learning algorithms mean self-developed address parsing solutions may be able to produce results that are acceptable for your use case. But it is worth noting, the solution won’t be easy to develop and there will be inaccuracies. You should carefully weigh up the effort to develop an address parsing solution vs buying a solution off the shelf.

Address Parsing Software Providers

Australia:

Geoscape Australia: Provides geospatial data solutions, including address parsing and geocoding for Australian addresses.
Precisely: They offer global solutions, including for Australia, in the realm of data quality and address management.
Equifax Australia: Offer address cleansing and geocoding solutions.

USA:

SmartyStreets: Offers address validation, geocoding, and parsing primarily for the U.S. but also internationally.
Melissa Data: Provides data quality solutions, including address validation, correction, and parsing for the USA and other countries.
Pitney Bowes: Global solutions, including for the U.S., in data quality and address management.

Canada:

Canada Post: Their AddressComplete solution provides parsing, validation, and autocomplete for Canadian addresses.
DMTI Spatial: Offers Canadian geospatial data solutions, which include address parsing and validation.

UK:

PCA Predict (Loqate): Provides address lookup, validation, and parsing solutions predominantly for the UK but also globally.
Allies Computing: Their PostCoder web service offers address lookup and validation for the UK and other countries.
Royal Mail: They have solutions for address validation and parsing for UK addresses.

It’s worth noting that many of these providers offer services for multiple countries, not just the ones listed under their respective headers. For example, a company that provides services in the USA might also cater to UK or Australian addresses.

When considering an address parsing provider, it’s essential to check if they cover the specific regions and countries you need, and if they offer the depth of functionality (e.g., address validation, geocoding, etc.) that your project requires.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Subscribe to receive the latest blogs and data listings direct to your inbox.

Alternative Data: What Is It, Who Uses It And Why It Matters

Discover the powerful intel alternative data can offer. Learn why businesses and investors are turning to non-traditional data sources for deeper insights and smarter decisions.

What Is A Geohash And How Is It Used?

Discover what a geohash is, how it works, and its real-world applications in mapping, logistics and data analysis.

What Is A Cadastre?

Learn how cadastres capture property boundaries, ownership details, and values, and see how technology is transforming them with 3D models, GIS and digital platforms.

Top Property and Proptech Events in Australia 2025

These industry events provide valuable opportunities to learn from industry leaders, explore emerging technologies, and network with peers who are shaping the future of the sector.

The Shifting Landscape of Property Ownership in Australia

Uncover the ways in which fintech and proptech are revolutionising property ownership in Australia, making it more accessible and dynamic than ever before.

How Proptech Is Revolutionising Real Estate

Jul 9, 2024 | Data Domain, Technology Application

Real estate, the world’s largest asset class, valued at a staggering $7.56 trillion, has long been a sleeping giant when it comes to technological innovation. But now, it’s waking up. Recent years have witnessed an unprecedented surge in proptech.

What is Proptech?

PropTech is short for Property Technology which, as its name suggests, is the dynamic intersection of property and technology.

Broadly, it refers to the innovative use of technology in the real estate industry and covers a wide range of tech solutions and innovations aimed at disrupting and digitising various aspects of the real estate sector, including property management, leasing, sales, construction, investment and others.

Proptech tackles key issues in how we use and benefit from real estate. It’s already streamlining processes and transactions, creating new opportunities, addressing pain points, cutting costs, enhancing connectivity, productivity and boosting convenience for residents, owners, landlords and other stakeholders.

Why the Surge in Proptech?

Several key factors have contributed to the rapid rise of proptech. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly accelerated the need for virtual, no-touch experiences, driving technological innovation across the sector.

Technological advancements with practical applications in real estate have also played a crucial role. Examples of innovations include:

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) enhancing property viewing experiences.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) providing data-driven insights and personalised recommendations.
Internet of Things (IoT) enabling smart home features and efficient property management.
Blockchain Technology allowing fractional property ownership, offering new ways for buyers and sellers to connect and potentially cutting costs by removing intermediaries out of the transaction process.
Drone Technology offering virtual tours and aerial views,

Increased connectivity and the availability of real estate data, have improved customer experiences and enabled faster, more informed decisions in real estate transactions, planning and development.

Regulatory changes have also revolutionised the way real estate operates.

Regulatory changes serve as a catalyst for proptech innovation. By creating new challenges and setting higher standards, regulations drive the development of advanced technologies and solutions that help businesses comply, operate more efficiently, and enhance their services. This continuous push for innovation ensures that the real estate industry evolves to meet modern demands.

The pressing issue of housing affordability has spurred creative approaches to real estate ownership and investment too. Proptech and financial technology (fintech) are democratising property investment, making it more accessible through crowdfunding platforms, fractional ownership, and Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs).

The potential for disruption and innovation in the real estate sector has attracted significant investor interest. Corporate venture capital units and accelerator programs further support and fast-track proptech startup funding.

Proptech’s Potential to Reimagine Real Estate

Proptech has gained significant traction in recent years as real estate professionals and investors recognise the potential of technology to disrupt.

According to PropTechBuzz, hundreds of Australian proptech startups are leveraging the power of advanced technologies like big data, AI, AR and generating over $1.4 billion of direct economic output.

Yet, we are only on the cusp of proptech’s true potential.

Signs show that this fledgling industry has yet to reach its pinnacle.

A recent Deloitte survey Global Real Estate Outlook Survey of real estate owners and investors across North America, Europe, and Asia/Pacific reveals:

Many real estate firms address years of amassed technical debt by ramping up technology capabilities. 59% of respondents say they do not have the data, processes, and internal controls necessary to comply with these regulations and expect it will take significant effort to reach compliance.
Many real estate firms aren’t ready to meet environmental, social, and governance (ESG) regulations. 61% admit their firms’ core technology infrastructures still rely on legacy systems. However, nearly half are making efforts to modernise.

Barriers to progress still exist.

A survey of 216 Australian property companies from 2021 by the Property Council of Australia and Yardi Systems show that

There is the perception that solutions must be specially developed or customised (34%).
26% of respondents see changing existing behaviours as the biggest obstacle to overcome, followed by cost (23%) and time constraints (11%).

The Future of Proptech

The future of proptech is looking bright.

As new technology, trends, and other contributing factors converge to accelerate innovation in the real estate (and its neighbouring) sectors, new ideas take flight and promise to disrupt traditional processes.

Proptech brings exciting benefits, boosting the real estate industry’s digital presence, productivity and enhancing experiences for everyone involved.

It fosters innovation and automation, adding convenience, efficiency, transparency and accuracy to administrative and operational tasks.

Additionally, proptech holds the promise of better access to data and analytics and the integration of sustainability practices.

As technology continues to advance and consumer preferences evolve, proptech is likely to play an increasingly prominent role in shaping the future of the real estate industry.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Subscribe to receive the latest blogs and data listings direct to your inbox.

Alternative Data: What Is It, Who Uses It And Why It Matters

Discover the powerful intel alternative data can offer. Learn why businesses and investors are turning to non-traditional data sources for deeper insights and smarter decisions.

What Is A Geohash And How Is It Used?

Discover what a geohash is, how it works, and its real-world applications in mapping, logistics and data analysis.

What Is A Cadastre?

Learn how cadastres capture property boundaries, ownership details, and values, and see how technology is transforming them with 3D models, GIS and digital platforms.

Top Property and Proptech Events in Australia 2025

These industry events provide valuable opportunities to learn from industry leaders, explore emerging technologies, and network with peers who are shaping the future of the sector.

The Shifting Landscape of Property Ownership in Australia

Uncover the ways in which fintech and proptech are revolutionising property ownership in Australia, making it more accessible and dynamic than ever before.

What is the Australian Statistical Geography Standard (ASGS)?

May 30, 2024 | Data Domain

Jump ahead ↓

What is the Australian Statistical Geography Standard (ASGS)?
Updates of the ASGS
ASGS framework of geographic regions
What tools can be used for representing and analysing ASGS?
What is the ASGS used for?
The essential role of ASGS

What is the Australian Statistical Geography Standard (ASGS)?

The Australian Statistical Geography Standard (ASGS) is essentially a framework used to classify and organise geographical areas across Australia for the purpose of collecting, analysing, and disseminating statistics.

Edition 3 ASGS 2021 – Sydney Statistical Area 3 (SA3)
Source: ABS Maps

By organising Australia into a system of statistical areas, the ASGS can be used to perform standardised location-based analysis on things that matter to your business. For example, where your customers live or shop, where your competitors operate, where you have business assets located or where weather patterns are observed.

The ASGS is a detailed way of representing Australia’s geographical diversity in statistical data.

By dividing the country into hierarchical levels of statistical areas, ranging from broad regions to specific localities, it allows accurate and meaningful analysis of various data, including population, economic and environmental statistics – ultimately, to better understand where people live and how communities are formed.

The ASGS was introduced in 2011 to replace the previous Australian Standard Geographical Classification (ASGC).

Edition 3 ASGS 2021 – Sydney Central Business District (CBD) Statistical Area 1 (SA1) and Statistical Area 2 (SA2).
Source: ABS Maps

Edition 3 ASGS 2021 – Sydney CBD Statistical Area 2 (SA2) and Statistical Area 3 (SA3).
Source: ABS Maps

Edition 3 ASGS 2021 – Sydney CBD Statistical Area 3 (SA3) and Statistical Area 4 (SA4).
Source: ABS Maps

Updates of the Australian Statistical Geography Standard (ASGS)

The ASGS is revised and refreshed every five years to reflect changes in the population, demographics, the country’s development and geographic boundaries to ensure it remains relevant and useful for statistical purposes.

The third edition, linked to the 2021 Census, began rolling out in July 2021 and includes updates to various geographic categorisations, ending with the Remoteness Structure in March 2023.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) oversees the ASGS and reviews it to ensure it meets current needs, incorporating feedback from public consultation. Additionally, they offer the online tool, ABS Maps, for exploring and comparing these statistical areas.

ASGS Edition 3 hierarchy of statistical areas

The Australian Statistical Geography Standard (ASGS) is represented through a hierarchical framework of statistical areas.

The ASGS is split into ABS and non ABS Structures. Of these, ABS Structures are geographies designed by the ABS for the purposes of releasing and the analysis of statistics.

The hierarchy is made up of several nested levels, which enables a flexible and consistent approach to understanding and managing geographic data.

Here is the ASGS Edition 3 Structures as published by the Australian Bureau of Statistics:

Main Structure and Greater Capital City Statistical Areas

Mesh Blocks: The smallest geographic unit, designed to cover all of Australia without gaps or overlaps. Mesh Blocks are the building blocks for larger statistical areas. Read more about Mesh Blocks>
Statistical Areas Level 1 (SA1): Groups of Mesh Blocks with populations between 200 and 800 people. They are used in the Census of Population and Housing.
Statistical Areas Level 2 (SA2): Aggregates of SA1s, generally with populations between 3,000 and 25,000 people. They represent functional areas that interact socially and economically.
Statistical Areas Level 3 (SA3): Groups of SA2s, reflecting regional cities and large urban transport hubs.
Statistical Areas Level 4 (SA4): Aggregates of SA3s, representing labour markets or regions with similar socioeconomic characteristics.
Greater Capital City Statistical Areas (GCCSA): Represent each of the eight state and territory capital cities.

Special Purpose Regions

Indigenous Structure

Indigenous Regions and Areas: Defined to facilitate the statistical analysis of the distribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations. The three hierarchical levels are: Indigenous Locations, Indigenous Areas and Indigenous Regions.

Remoteness Structure

Remoteness Areas: Classify areas based on their remoteness from services and population centres. The five remoteness classes are: Major Cities, Inner Regional, Outer Regional, Remote and Very Remote.

Significant Urban Areas, Section of State, Urban Centres and Localities

Urban Centres and Localities (UCLs): Define urban and rural areas based on population size and density.
Section of State (SOS): SOS groups the UCLs into classes of urban areas based on population size.
Classifying urban areas in several different ways is to allow statistical data to be made available to Australian towns and cities and for statistical analysis.

Non ABS Structures

Non ABS Structures: These are administrative regions that are not defined or maintained by the ABS. They include eight geographies: Local Government Areas, State Electoral Divisions, Commonwealth Electoral Divisions, Destination Zones, Postal Areas, Suburbs and Localities, Australian Drainage Divisions and Tourism Regions.

What tools can be used for representing and analysing ASGS?

These tools collectively offer a comprehensive approach to representing and analysing ASGS data.

They provide the necessary geographic context and detailed spatial data required for thorough analysis.

A combination of these resources can enable data professionals to enhance their analytical capabilities and produce insightful visualisations to support planning and informed decision making.

ABS Maps: An online tool provided by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) that allows users to explore and compare different statistical areas defined by the ASGS.
Geographic Information System (GIS) Files: GIS is a framework for gathering, managing, and analysing spatial and geographic data, encompassing a broad range of tools and functionalities. GIS files (formats may include shapefiles, GeoJSON, and KMLare) available for download, allowing for detailed spatial analysis using software like ArcGIS or QGIS.
Online Data Portals: Platforms such as the ABS Data Explorer or Australian National Map provide access to a variety of geographic data layers. This allows users to visualise and download data in different formats for analysis.
Statistical and Data Visualisation Software: R, Python (with libraries like Geopandas and Folium), and Tableau can be used to import ASGS data for advanced statistical analysis and visualisation, enabling the creation of custom maps and visual representations of the data.
Spatial Databases: Databases such as PostGIS that are optimised for storing and querying spatial data and facilitates efficient management and analysis of large geographic datasets.
Printed Maps and Documentation: Detailed maps and explanatory notes published by the ABS, outlining the boundaries and characteristics of each statistical area.

What is the ASGS used for?

One of ASGS’s primary uses is for the Census, the study of Australia’s population.

The ASGS is integral to Australia’s Census as it defines geographic boundaries, facilitates detailed data collection and enumeration, enables comprehensive data analysis and reporting, and supports informed decision-making, resource allocation, policy making and planning by government agencies.

However it is also used broadly by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) and other entities.

The ASGS is versatile enough to support a wide array of activities involving the accurate collection of geographic and statistical data across Australia, making it a fundamental element in analysis.

Detailed demographics: The ASGS allows businesses to segment customers based on detailed geographic and demographic data. By using Statistical Areas (SA1 to SA4), companies can identify distinct customer groups within specific regions, tailoring marketing strategies and product offerings to the unique characteristics of each segment.
Targeted marketing: Businesses can use Mesh Blocks or SA1 regions to create hyper-local marketing campaigns, ensuring that promotional efforts are targeted towards areas with the highest potential for engagement and conversion.
Real estate and urban planning: The ASGS provides a robust framework for organising geographic areas to satisfy a broad range of uses in real estate. It can be used to enhance analysis of localities for a better understanding of local demographic through to reporting of property-related data. Examples include: analysis of housing trends, planning of urban developments, identifying growth areas or conducting property valuations with a clear understanding of geographic distinctions.
Accurate market data aggregation: The hierarchical structure of the ASGS enables businesses to aggregate and report market data accurately across various geographic levels, from local neighborhoods (SA1) to larger regions (SA4). This helps in understanding market trends and consumer behavior across different areas.
Market trend analysis: By comparing data across different Census periods using consistent ASGS boundaries, businesses can track market trends and demographic shifts, aiding in long-term strategic planning and investment decisions.
Business and market analysis: Companies leverage the ASGS for market analysis, site selection and strategic planning as it can help businesses understand demographic trends and geographical distributions of markets to inform targeted marketing and business expansion strategies.
Retail demand forecasting: Retailers can use ASGS data to forecast demand for products in different geographic areas. By understanding population density, age distribution, and income levels within mesh blocks or SA2 areas, businesses can optimise inventory levels to match local demand.
Supply chain efficiency: The ASGS framework helps retailers plan efficient distribution routes and manage stock levels more effectively, ensuring that products are available where they are needed most without overstocking or stockouts.
Competitor analysis: Businesses can use ASGS-defined regions to map out the geographic locations of competitors, analysing their market coverage and identifying potential gaps or opportunities for expansion.
Market share estimation: By integrating ASGS data with sales and demographic information, companies can estimate market share within specific regions, helping to assess competitive strengths and weaknesses.
Environmental risk assessment: The ASGS allows for precise mapping of environmental risks such as flood zones, bushfire-prone areas, and pollution levels. By overlaying environmental data with population and infrastructure data from the ASGS, businesses can assess the potential impact of environmental risks on their operations.
Environmental regulation compliance and planning: Companies can use ASGS data to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and to plan mitigation strategies for at-risk areas. This helps in safeguarding assets and maintaining operational continuity.
Research and academia: Researchers and academics use the ASGS for conducting spatial analysis and regional studies, allowing detailed investigations into socio-economic, environmental, and demographic conditions across different regions.

The essential role of ASGS

The Australian Statistical Geography Standard (ASGS) plays a foundational role in statistical geography, allowing users to analyse and visualise statistics based on location. Its extensive applications, regular updates, and strong endorsement by the ABS ensure its implementation and integrity.

As such, the ASGS remains an essential framework and a mainstay in Australian geographic and statistical analysis—an indispensable tool for ensuring the accuracy, consistency, and relevance of geographic data across various domains.

How to Incorporate Mesh Blocks into Datasets

Incorporating mesh blocks into datasets involves several steps to ensure seamless integration and effective utilisation of geographical information. Here’s a guide on how to incorporate mesh blocks into datasets.

Learn more

Subscribe to our newsletter

Subscribe to receive the latest blogs and data listings direct to your inbox.

Next Entries »

Defining Proptech and Contech

Proptech

Contech

Key Differences Between Proptech and Contech

Scope of Application:

Target Audience:

Technological Impact:

Proptech and Contech: Better Together

Subscribe to our newsletter

Read more from The Proptech Cloud

TL;DR

Coordinate Reference System (CRS)

What is a CRS used for?

Different Types of CRS

Practical applications of CRS in property and real estate

Read more from The Proptech Cloud

Read more from The Proptech Cloud

TL;DR

What is Address Parsing?

Why is Address Parsing Difficult?

Example 1

Example 2

Example 3

Challenges with Address Parsing

Is Accurate Address Parsing Possible?

Address Parsing Software Providers

Australia:

USA:

Canada:

UK:

Subscribe to our newsletter

Read more from The Proptech Cloud

What is Proptech?

Why the Surge in Proptech?

Proptech’s Potential to Reimagine Real Estate

The Future of Proptech

Subscribe to our newsletter

Read more from The Proptech Cloud

Table of Contents

What is the Australian Statistical Geography Standard (ASGS)?

Updates of the Australian Statistical Geography Standard (ASGS)

ASGS Edition 3 hierarchy of statistical areas

Main Structure and Greater Capital City Statistical Areas

Special Purpose Regions

Indigenous Structure

Remoteness Structure

Significant Urban Areas, Section of State, Urban Centres and Localities

Non ABS Structures

What tools can be used for representing and analysing ASGS?

What is the ASGS used for?

The essential role of ASGS

How to Incorporate Mesh Blocks into Datasets

Subscribe to our newsletter

Read more from The Proptech Cloud

Recent Posts

Recent Comments

Data Listings