Leonora

WA 6438 • Western Australia

657
Population (2021)
N/A
Median Income
11073.77 km²
Area
N/A
Median Rent
Mining TownRemoteOutbackHistoricRural

About Leonora

Leonora is a small gold mining town in the Goldfields-Esperance region of Western Australia, located 833 kilometres north-east of Perth and 237 kilometres north of Kalgoorlie, within the Shire of Leonora. The town recorded a population of 657 at the 2021 Census, with a slight male majority reflecting its mining heritage. Established in 1897 following gold discoveries in the area, Leonora sits at an elevation of 376 metres in the semi-arid outback interior, characterised by red earth landscapes, low scrub, and expansive open skies.

Leonora is closely tied to its rich mining history, most notably the Sons of Gwalia gold mine in the adjacent locality of Gwalia, which once brought international recognition and remains a significant heritage site. The town provides essential services to the surrounding region including a school, medical centre, and local shops, catering to both permanent residents and itinerant mining workers. The isolation and frontier character of Leonora appeal to those drawn to outback life, and the broader Goldfields region attracts visitors interested in its unique landscape and gold rush history.

Leonora falls under postcode 6438 and is governed by the local council Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Kalgoorlie (Mining and Pastoral) electorate.

📍 Location

Postcode
6438
Urban Area
N/A
LGA / Council
N/A
Federal Electorate
Type
Locality
Timezone
Perth (UTC+8)
Coordinates
-28.90°, 121.09°
Statistical Area
N/A
Area
11073.77 km²
Elevation
0m

🚌 Transport & Commute

Bus Services

  • Limited regional coach services — Kalgoorlie Approx. 3 hours

Commute to Perth CBD

Distance
833 km
By Train
No direct train service; nearest rail at Kalgoorlie (237km south)
By Car (Peak)
8-9 hours
By Car (Off-Peak)
8-9 hours

🛣️ Accessible via the Great Eastern Highway and Goldfields Highway; very remote location

Walkability Almost All Errands Require a Car

The small town centre provides basic services on foot, but travel by car is essential for most daily needs

🛒 Supermarkets Nearby

No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.

🎓 Schools

👥 Demographics

Census 2016
0
Census 2021
657
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 Leonora known for? +

Leonora is best known for its gold mining heritage, dating back to the 1895 gold rush. The nearby Sons of Gwalia gold mine in the adjacent locality of Gwalia is one of the most historically significant mining sites in Western Australia and an iconic Goldfields landmark.

How far is Leonora from Perth? +

Leonora is approximately 833 kilometres north-east of Perth, making it around an 8 to 9 hour drive via the Great Eastern Highway and Goldfields Highway. It is also 237 kilometres north of Kalgoorlie.

Does Leonora have public transport? +

There is no rail passenger service to Leonora. Limited regional coach connections to Kalgoorlie are available, but a private vehicle is the most practical way to travel to and from the town.

What is the population of Leonora? +

According to the 2021 Census, Leonora had a population of 657, with a slight male majority typical of mining communities. The town serves as a service hub for the surrounding Goldfields region.

Is Leonora a good place to live? +

Leonora suits those who enjoy outback living and a strong community spirit in a remote setting. Its isolation is significant — Perth is over 8 hours away — but for those connected to the mining industry or drawn to the Goldfields' rugged landscape and history, it offers a unique lifestyle.

What is the postcode for Leonora? +

The postcode for Leonora, Western Australia is 6438.