Koo Wee Rup
VIC 3981 • Greater Melbourne
About Koo Wee Rup
Koo Wee Rup is a country town 63 kilometres southeast of Melbourne in the Cardinia Shire, where former swampland has been transformed into some of Australia's most productive market gardens. The Aboriginal name meaning 'blackfish swimming' reflects the area's wetland origins. With a population of around 4,000, this farming community has grown steadily as a gateway to South Gippsland and the Bass Coast.
The town is famous as Australia's premier asparagus-growing district, with rich black soils supporting diverse vegetable cultivation. Life centres on the main street with its historic pub, local shops, and genuine country atmosphere. Koo Wee Rup attracts farming families, tree-changers seeking affordable rural living within reach of Melbourne, and those who appreciate the flat, open landscapes and strong agricultural heritage. The town has been proposed as a site for a third Melbourne airport.
Koo Wee Rup falls under postcode 3981 and is governed by Cardinia Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Bass (Eastern Victoria) electorate.
Location
Transport & Commute
Nearest Train Stations
Bus Services
- V/Line Coach 1720 — Melbourne (Southern Cross) via Dandenong 1h 5min
- V/Line Coach 1722 — Yarram, Leongatha Regional
- Ventura 842 — Pakenham Station 25 min
Commute to Melbourne CBD
🛣️ Former rail station closed 1994; local advocacy for rail reinstatement; most residents work locally or commute to Pakenham/Dandenong
Town centre walkable with shops, schools, and services; car essential for farming areas and regional trips
Supermarkets Nearby
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Woolworths25 -65 Station Street North Koo Wee Rup 3981 VIC
Schools
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Ballarto Road
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Moody Street
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Rossiter Road
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Station Street
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 117
- 2. New Zealand 62
- 3. Italy 41
- 4. Philippines 16
- 5. Cambodia 15
- 6. India 12
- 7. Ireland 12
- 8. Scotland 12
- 9. Sri Lanka 12
- 10. United States 12
- 11. Thailand 11
- 12. Germany 10
- 13. Fiji 9
- 14. Netherlands 9
- 15. South Africa 9
Ancestry 2021 Census
Top ancestries reported (people may report up to two)