Hay
Hay ranks =72nd of 128 overall in NSW, with core operations the area most needing attention.
"Outback NSW's vast flat plains — Hay, the Murrumbidgee, and endless sky"
See where Hay ranks: Best Councils in New South Wales 2026
New South Wales · rural council · Pop. 2,861
Data last updated: 2023-24 · Data confidence: high
Overall Score
50 out of 100
#11 of 15 rural councils in NSW
#72 in New South Wales
Score Breakdown
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| Sustainability | 44/100 |
| Community Services | 63/100 |
| Lifestyle & Amenity | 51/100 |
| Core Operations | 40/100 |
What This Means For You
Among rural councils, Hay performs strongest in Community Services (scoring 63 out of 100 against peers), with room to improve in Core Operations (currently 40 out of 100).
What Makes This Place Unique
Outback NSW's vast flat plains — Hay, the Murrumbidgee, and endless sky
Hay is a small outback town on the Murrumbidgee River surrounded by vast flat plains.
Known For
- Shear Outback — Australian shearers' hall of fame
- Murrumbidgee River heritage
- Dunera Museum — WWII internment history
- Vast flat pastoral landscape
Living Here
Very remote, very flat, very hot in summer. Strong community spirit.
Hidden Gem
The Dunera Museum — telling the remarkable story of WWII internees held at Hay, a nationally significant story.