Scamander

TAS 7215 • Tasmania

803
Population (2021)
N/A
Median Income
17.61 km²
Area
N/A
Median Rent
CoastalBeachsideRuralRetiree-HavenHoliday Destination

About Scamander

Scamander is a small coastal town at the mouth of the Scamander River on Tasmania's picturesque north-east coast, within the Break O’Day Council local government area. Located approximately 18 kilometres from both St Helens and St Marys, and around 146 kilometres north-east of Launceston, the town has a population of 803 spread across 17.6 square kilometres. The median household income of approximately 4,231 reflects a largely seasonal and tourism-oriented economy, with a mix of permanent residents, holiday homeowners, and retirees drawn by the relaxed coastal setting. The town has 340 dwellings, suggesting a significant proportion of holiday and part-time occupancy.

Scamander is a popular holiday destination, renowned for its wide sandy beaches, surf breaks, and bream fishing in the Scamander River. Basic amenities including a general store and caravan park are available locally, while more comprehensive services — including supermarkets, medical centres, and schools — are found in St Helens just 18 kilometres to the north. There is no rail service to Scamander, and bus connections are very limited, making a private vehicle essential for year-round residents. The town's affordable, laid-back beachside character attracts sea-changers, retirees, and holiday-makers seeking an authentic Tasmanian coastal lifestyle away from the crowds.

Scamander falls under postcode 7215 and is governed by the local council Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Lyons (Prosser) electorate.

📍 Location

State
Postcode
7215
Urban Area
N/A
LGA / Council
N/A
Federal Electorate
State Electorate
Type
Locality
Timezone
Hobart (UTC+10)
Coordinates
-42.31°, 148.28°
Statistical Area
N/A
Area
17.61 km²
Elevation
0m

🚌 Transport & Commute

Bus Services

  • TassiLink coach service — Launceston / St Helens 20 min to St Helens; 2.5-3 hr to Launceston

Commute to Hobart CBD

Distance
235 km
By Train
No train service
By Car (Peak)
2.5-3 hr to Hobart; 1.5-2 hr to Launceston
By Car (Off-Peak)
2.5 hr to Hobart; 1.5 hr to Launceston

🛣️ St Helens is the nearest regional service centre (~18 km). Accessible via the Tasman Highway.

Walkability Almost All Errands Require a Car

Small coastal town with very limited walkable amenities; a car is necessary for most errands

🛒 Supermarkets Nearby

No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.

🎓 Schools

👥 Demographics

Census 2016
0
Census 2021
803
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 Scamander known for? +

Scamander is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, surf, and fishing at the mouth of the Scamander River on Tasmania's north-east coast. It's a popular holiday destination offering swimming, surfing, and bream fishing in a relaxed, uncrowded setting.

How far is Scamander from Launceston? +

Scamander is approximately 146 kilometres north-east of Launceston, typically a 1.5 to 2 hour drive via the Tasman Highway. Hobart is approximately 235 kilometres to the south, about a 2.5 to 3 hour drive.

Does Scamander have public transport? +

Public transport in Scamander is very limited. TassiLink coach services connect the town to St Helens and Launceston, but services are infrequent. There is no passenger rail in the region, and a private vehicle is strongly recommended.

What is the population of Scamander? +

According to the 2021 Census, Scamander has a permanent population of 803 residents. However, with 340 total dwellings, a significant proportion of properties are likely holiday homes or part-time residences, especially given the town's popularity as a tourist destination.

Is Scamander a good place to live? +

Scamander suits those seeking an affordable, quiet coastal lifestyle in Tasmania's beautiful north-east. It's well-suited to retirees, sea-changers, and remote workers who value natural amenity and don't require access to major urban centres. Services are limited locally, with St Helens providing the nearest supermarket and medical facilities.

What is the postcode for Scamander? +

The postcode for Scamander is 7215, in Tasmania.