Capel
WA 6271 • Rest of WA
About Capel
Capel is a charming rural town in Western Australia's South West region, located 212 kilometres south of Perth and positioned midway between Bunbury and Busselton on the scenic Capel River. With a population of around 2,600 residents, this historic township was established in 1897 and has evolved from traditional dairy farming into a diverse agricultural hub featuring hobby farms, wineries, and innovative pursuits like alpaca farming and viticulture. The town enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters.
Life in Capel centres around rural tranquillity and outdoor recreation, with residents enjoying access to stunning attractions like Peppermint Beach for swimming and sunrise watching, and the renowned Tuart Forest National Park offering bushwalking and wildlife viewing. The area features local wineries, cafes serving farm-fresh produce, and proximity to Forest Adventures South West for high-rope courses and zip-lining. The community attracts families seeking affordable rural living, retirees drawn to the peaceful lifestyle, and professionals who appreciate the balance of country charm with reasonable access to larger centres.
Capel falls under postcode 6271 and is governed by Capel Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Collie-Preston electorate.
Location
Transport & Commute
Nearest Train Stations
Bus Services
- SW120 Perth-Bunbury-Busselton — Perth/Bunbury/Busselton 3h 20m to Perth, 30m to Bunbury
- South West Coach Lines — Regional connections 45m to Bunbury, 30m to Busselton
Commute to Perth
🛣️ Regional location - limited public transport options
Rural setting requiring private vehicle for most daily needs
Supermarkets Nearby
No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.
Schools
-
Barlee Road
Housing Costs 2021 Census
Demographics
Population Growth
Gender Distribution (Census 2021)
Income Comparison
Country of Birth 2021 Census
Top Countries of Birth (excl. Australia)
- 1. England 155
- 2. New Zealand 66
- 3. South Africa 24
- 4. Scotland 15
- 5. Canada 13
- 6. India 10
- 7. Ireland 10
- 8. Netherlands 9
- 9. Germany 8
- 10. United States 8
- 11. Indonesia 4
- 12. Wales 4
- 13. Hong Kong 3
- 14. Italy 3
- 15. Malaysia 3
Ancestry 2021 Census
Top ancestries reported (people may report up to two)