Geospatial Information Systems (GIS) offer valuable perspectives into the spatial dispersion of benefits and drawbacks across different locales, rendering them indispensable instruments for grasping the intricate composition of our present-day globe. This study employs geospatial information systems (GIS) to scrutinize the diverse topography of Sydney, Australia. Sydney, an international city, is distinguished by its varied socioeconomic backgrounds, vibrant urban development, and unique tapestry of cultures. As part of our effort to understand the spatial dimensions of advantages and disadvantages, we offer five maps that examine important facets of daily living in this dynamic city. Map One, which explores the spatial distribution of Sydney’s unemployment rates in 2016, is where our analytical journey starts. The intricate relationships between employment, economic prosperity, and transportation infrastructure are made clear by these maps. We use scholarly sources cited according to the Harvard referencing style to bolster our interpretations and conclusions. We hope to discover the distinctive features of Sydney’s urban environment and obtain important knowledge about the elements that influence the lives of its citizens as we make our way through these maps. We hope that this investigation will add to the conversation on urban development, spatial fairness, and the creation of a more inclusive and equitable city.

Results

Map 1: Unemployment vs. Advantages and Disadvantages in Sydney (2016)

The spatial distribution of Sydney’s unemployment rates 2016 is graphically depicted in Map 1. This map uses a color gradient, wherein lighter colors and higher jobless concentrations represent lower unemployment rates indicated by darker colors. The map’s sharp contrast draws attention to how unevenly distributed the city’s economic chances are. The central business center (CBD) and its surrounding areas are designated with lighter hues, which indicate lower unemployment rates. At the same time, the western suburbs are clearly defined with deeper tones, which indicate elevated rates. The complex relationship between unemployment and spatial advantages or disadvantages in the city is highlighted by this difference.

These disparities in unemployment are emblematic of broader spatial disadvantage issues in Sydney. In the works of Baum, O’Connor, and Stimson (2005), Dodson and Sipe (2008), and Burke and Hulse (2015), the authors delve into the complexities of advantages and disadvantages in Australian cities. The concentration of unemployment in certain areas exacerbates problems such as limited access to public transport (Currie & Delbosc, 2011) and housing unaffordability, especially in economically thriving regions (Dodson & Sipe, 2008).

Map 2: Level of Advantage and Disadvantage of Population Born Overseas in Sydney

Map 2 shows the differences in advantages and disadvantages among Sydney’s foreign-born population. It makes use of a color spectrum to illustrate these disparities, with lighter hues denoting locations with greater advantage and darker reddish-green hues reflecting levels of disadvantage and areas with a higher concentration of residents who were born abroad suffering disadvantage. The graphic shows that socioeconomic situations are unique in places with many residents born abroad. The map’s darker tones indicate that areas with a high immigrant population also tend to be more disadvantaged.

This map highlights the intricate relationship between immigration and socioeconomic circumstances. It demonstrates that although immigration increases diversity, inequities in space are not always eliminated. Even highly immigrant areas may experience economic difficulties. Transportation problems, such as restricted access to public transportation, can make life more difficult for locals in locations where a large percentage of the population was born abroad. Furthermore, the affordability of housing for both native-born people and those born abroad is impacted by the high cost of housing in economically thriving areas.

Map 3: Advantages and Disadvantages in Sydney Relative to Education Levels and Weekly Income.

Map 3 visualizes the socioeconomic disparities in Sydney, considering education levels and weekly income as key indicators. The map employs a