Port Fairy
VIC 3284 • Rest of VIC
About Port Fairy
Port Fairy is a charming coastal town in south-western Victoria, located at the mouth of the Moyne River approximately 290 kilometres west of Melbourne. With a population of around 3,300, this historic fishing village was established in the 1840s and retains much of its 19th-century character. The town features over 50 heritage-listed buildings and was voted the world's most liveable small community in 2012.
The town offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle with beautiful beaches, excellent fishing, and a thriving arts and food scene. The annual Port Fairy Folk Festival draws thousands of visitors each March. Griffiths Island, connected by a causeway, is home to a short-tailed shearwater colony and historic lighthouse. Port Fairy attracts retirees, sea-changers, and holiday-home owners seeking an authentic seaside community away from the bustle of larger centres.
Port Fairy falls under postcode 3284 and is governed by Moyne Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the South-West Coast (Western Victoria) electorate.
Location
Transport & Commute
Nearest Train Stations
Bus Services
- V/Line Coach — Warrnambool 30 min
- V/Line Coach — Melbourne via Warrnambool 4 hr 30 min
Commute to Melbourne CBD
🛣️ No direct train. V/Line coach connects to Warrnambool station for train to Melbourne.
The compact town centre is very walkable with shops, cafes, and the beach all within easy reach. A car is needed for trips beyond town.
Supermarkets Nearby
No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.
Schools
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Albert Street
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9-11 William Street
Housing 2021 Census
30 state housing + 0 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 101
- 2. New Zealand 52
- 3. South Africa 14
- 4. Netherlands 12
- 5. Germany 9
- 6. Ireland 9
- 7. Indonesia 8
- 8. Scotland 8
- 9. Philippines 7
- 10. China 6
Ancestry 2021 Census
Top ancestries reported (people may report up to two)