Spatial Political Economy and the Persistence of Disadvantage: An Analysis of Fairfield in Greater Western Sydney

Abstract

Persistent disadvantage remains a critical challenge for Australian public policy, primarily because traditional responses overlook localised experiences. This thesis investigates why Fairfield became the most disadvantaged local government area in New South Wales. Utilising a spatial political economy approach, it examines the geographical, historical, and institutional elements driving persistent disadvantage in Fairfield.

The study employs a case-study methodology using empirical analysis. First, it uses Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data, including the 2021 Census, to analyse Fairfield's demographic and socioeconomic features. Second, it critically engages with federal, state, and local policy reports to provide an institutional perspective on governance. Finally, the research is situated within broader academic literatures exploring inequality and disadvantage across diverse policy topics in the Australian context.

Analysis reveals that Fairfield's disadvantage stems from two interacting structural pressures. Data shows that concentrated humanitarian settlement creates unique community susceptibilities, especially post-arrival and during economic shocks. Concurrently, a reliance on lower-wage employment and lower female labour market participation constrain local incomes. Together, these factors create an accumulative effect persisting across generations and dampening social mobility.

In response, this thesis advocates for place-based policy and reformed fiscal arrangements within the Australian federation. It proposes a framework that empowers local decision-makers and facilitates community-led policy design. This research provides a scalable model for pursuing greater social opportunity across Australian communities grappling with similar vulnerabilities.