Orbost
VIC 3888 • Rest of VIC
About Orbost
Orbost is a rural town in the Shire of East Gippsland, Victoria, situated 375 kilometres east of Melbourne where the Princes Highway crosses the Snowy River. With a population of around 2,264, the town serves as a service centre for the surrounding farming and forestry communities. The median age of 53 reflects a mature demographic, and incomes sit below metropolitan averages with a median personal weekly income of $489.
Orbost offers a relaxed country lifestyle with access to the Snowy River National Park, nearby coastal town of Marlo (16 km away), and the broader East Gippsland wilderness. The town has local shops, schools, sporting facilities, and a hospital. It appeals to retirees, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking an affordable rural lifestyle away from the city. The surrounding region is known for farming, timber, and eco-tourism.
Orbost falls under postcode 3888 and is governed by East Gippsland Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Gippsland East (Eastern Victoria) electorate.
Location
Transport & Commute
Bus Services
- V/Line Coach — Bairnsdale (connecting to Melbourne train) ~1h 15min
- V/Line Coach — Lakes Entrance ~45min
Commute to Melbourne
🛣️ Remote location; Bairnsdale (93km west) is the nearest major town with rail. Regional centre is Bairnsdale or Sale.
Small town centre is walkable for daily errands, but most residents rely on cars for broader services and commuting.
Supermarkets Nearby
No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.
Schools
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Bonang Highway
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Jorgenson Street
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Rupert Street
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Ruskin Street
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Arnold Street
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Raymond Street
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Bonang-gelantipy Road
Housing 2021 Census
46 state housing + 9 community housing dwellings (ABS 2021 Census)
Educational Institution Attending 2021 Census
School Sector Breakdown
Demographics
Population Growth
Gender Distribution (Census 2021)
Income Comparison
Country of Birth 2021 Census
Top Countries of Birth (excl. Australia)
- 1. England 61
- 2. Philippines 16
- 3. New Zealand 13
- 4. Germany 11
- 5. Italy 10
- 6. Netherlands 10
- 7. South Africa 9
- 8. Thailand 7
- 9. United States 7
- 10. Scotland 5
Ancestry 2021 Census
Top ancestries reported (people may report up to two)