Shoalwater
WA 6169 • Greater Perth
About Shoalwater
Shoalwater is a coastal suburb in the outer southern reaches of Perth, located approximately 47 kilometres from the Perth CBD within the City of Rockingham. Home to around 4,368 residents with a median age of 49, it has a noticeably mature community character with a high proportion of retirees and established households. The suburb has a significant British-born population, with residents from England, Scotland, and Wales forming a distinctive part of the community alongside long-term Perth residents.
Shoalwater's defining feature is its spectacular natural setting — the suburb borders the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, which encompasses Shoalwater Bay, Cape Peron, and the iconic Penguin Island, home to a colony of little penguins and a popular destination for snorkelling, kayaking, and wildlife watching. The coastal lifestyle is the primary drawcard, with beaches, reserves, and waterfront parklands providing everyday recreation. Nearby Rockingham city centre offers comprehensive shopping and services, and Rockingham train station connects residents to Perth CBD via the Mandurah Line in approximately 50 minutes.
Shoalwater falls under postcode 6169 and is governed by Rockingham Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Rockingham electorate.
Location
Transport & Commute
Nearest Train Stations
Bus Services
- Transperth bus routes — Rockingham Station / Rockingham City Centre 5-15 min
Commute to Perth CBD
🛣️ Kwinana Freeway provides direct freeway access to Perth; Transperth bus connects to Rockingham Station
Most daily errands require a car; coastal walks and parklands are accessible on foot, but retail and services need driving
Supermarkets Nearby
No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.
Schools
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21 Gibb Road
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Waimea Road
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Malibu Road
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43 Rand Avenue
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30 Gnangara Drive
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Lonsdale Crescent
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109 Coronata Drive
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2 Swallowtail Parade
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2 Swallowtail Parade
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Axminster Road
Housing 2021 Census
75 state housing + 8 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 525
- 2. New Zealand 139
- 3. Scotland 71
- 4. South Africa 63
- 5. Wales 36
- 6. Ireland 32
- 7. Germany 31
- 8. Philippines 29
- 9. India 25
- 10. Netherlands 19
Ancestry 2021 Census
Top ancestries reported (people may report up to two)