Borroloola

NT 854 • Northern Territory

755
Population (2021)
N/A
Median Income
12.56 km²
Area
N/A
Median Rent
RemoteRuralOutbackRiverside

About Borroloola

Borroloola is a remote township in the Northern Territory's Gulf Country, situated on the McArthur River approximately 970 kilometres south-east of Darwin and 70 kilometres inland from the Gulf of Carpentaria. With a 2021 Census population of 755 residents, the community is predominantly Aboriginal and plays a significant cultural and administrative role for the surrounding Yanyuwa, Garrwa, Gudanji, and Mara peoples. The township covers around 12.5 square kilometres and serves as a service hub for a vast and sparsely populated region of the Top End.

Borroloola offers essential services including a hospital, police station, school, and small shopping facilities, reflecting its role as a regional centre for remote Gulf Country communities. The area is renowned for its exceptional barramundi, bream, and king salmon fishing in the McArthur River and surrounding waterways, drawing dedicated recreational anglers from across Australia. The surrounding landscape features dramatic escarpments, ancient rock formations, and the nearby Sir Edward Pellew Islands, making it a destination for adventurous travellers and outback enthusiasts.

Borroloola falls under postcode 854 and is governed by the local council Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Barkly electorate.

📍 Location

Postcode
854
Urban Area
N/A
LGA / Council
N/A
Federal Electorate
State Electorate
Type
Locality
Timezone
Darwin (UTC+9:30)
Coordinates
-16.50°, 136.42°
Statistical Area
N/A
Area
12.56 km²
Elevation
0m

🚌 Transport & Commute

Bus Services

  • Limited charter/community transport — Katherine / Darwin 8-12 hours by road

Commute to Darwin CBD

Distance
970 km
By Train
No train service
By Car (Peak)
Approximately 10-12 hours via the Carpentaria Highway
By Car (Off-Peak)
Approximately 10-12 hours via the Carpentaria Highway

🛣️ Accessible by Carpentaria Highway and Tablelands Highway; regular light aircraft service via Borroloola Airport

Walkability Almost All Errands Require a Car

Borroloola's remote location means a vehicle or light aircraft is essential for travel beyond the township

🛒 Supermarkets Nearby

No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.

🎓 Schools

No schools listed for this postcode.

👥 Demographics

Census 2016
0
Census 2021
755
0% growth

Population Growth

Gender Distribution (Census 2021)

Income 2016
N/A
Income 2021
N/A
0% increase

Income Comparison

📊 Population: ABS Census 2021
💰 Income: ABS Census 2021

Nearby Suburbs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Borroloola known for? +

Borroloola is best known for its world-class barramundi, bream, and king salmon fishing in the McArthur River and Gulf of Carpentaria waterways. It also holds deep cultural significance as a centre for the Yanyuwa, Garrwa, Gudanji, and Mara Aboriginal peoples.

How far is Borroloola from Darwin? +

Borroloola is approximately 970 kilometres south-east of Darwin CBD by road, making it around a 10-12 hour drive via the Carpentaria and Tablelands highways. Regular light aircraft services provide a much faster connection.

Does Borroloola have public transport? +

Borroloola has no rail or regular bus services. The primary transport options are private vehicle, charter transport, and light aircraft via Borroloola Airport. A car is essential for getting around in the region.

What is the population of Borroloola? +

According to the 2021 Census, Borroloola has a population of 755 residents. The community is predominantly Aboriginal and serves as a service hub for a large surrounding remote region.

Is Borroloola a good place to live? +

Borroloola suits those seeking a remote outback lifestyle with a strong connection to country, fishing, and Aboriginal culture. It offers essential services but limited retail and entertainment options; most residents value its natural environment and community spirit.

What is the postcode for Borroloola? +

The postcode for Borroloola, NT is 854.