Bellbrae

VIC 3228 • Rest of VIC

1,346
Population (2021)
$40,352
Median Income
50.80 km²
Area
77m
Elevation
CoastalRuralRetiree-FriendlyGrowth SuburbSurf Coast

About Bellbrae

Bellbrae is a peaceful rural locality on Victoria's Surf Coast, nestled between Torquay and Anglesea in the Surf Coast Shire. With a population of around 1,350 residents as of the 2021 Census, it has experienced significant growth of over 55% since 2016. The suburb has a median age of 52, reflecting its popularity with retirees and established families. Bellbrae sits on the inland side of the Great Ocean Road corridor, offering a quieter alternative to the coastal towns.

Life in Bellbrae revolves around its semi-rural character, with large blocks and leafy surroundings providing a country feel just minutes from the coast. The Bellbrae Country Market and local wineries are popular draws, while everyday shopping is available in nearby Torquay. The area attracts families seeking space and nature lovers who enjoy the proximity to Bells Beach and the Great Otway National Park. With predominantly English and Australian heritage, the community has a relaxed, outdoorsy atmosphere.

Bellbrae falls under postcode 3228 and is governed by Surf Coast Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Polwarth (Western Victoria) electorate.

📍 Location

State
Postcode
3228
Urban Area
N/A
Federal Electorate
State Electorate
Type
Rural
Timezone
Melbourne (UTC+10)
Coordinates
-38.34°, 144.24°
Statistical Area
Rest of VIC
Area
50.80 km²
Elevation
77m

🚌 Transport & Commute

Bus Services

  • V/Line Geelong-Apollo Bay — Geelong or Apollo Bay 30 min to Geelong

Commute to Melbourne CBD

Distance
107 km
By Train
N/A (no direct train)
By Bus
N/A
By Car (Peak)
1 hr 30 min
By Car (Off-Peak)
1 hr 15 min

🛣️ Nearest train station is Waurn Ponds (~30 min drive). Most residents drive to Geelong (30 min) or commute via the Princes Freeway to Melbourne.

Walkability Car-Dependent

Rural area with no footpaths or public transport within the suburb. A car is essential for daily activities.

🛒 Supermarkets Nearby

No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.

🎓 Schools

🏠 Housing Costs 2021 Census

Median Rent (weekly)
$380
Median Mortgage (monthly)
$2,300
Avg Household Size
2.5 people
Median Age
52 years

👥 Demographics

Census 2016
865
Census 2021
1,346
55.6% growth

Population Growth

Gender Distribution (Census 2021)

Income 2016
$33,852
Income 2021
$40,352
19.2% increase

Income Comparison

📊 Population: ABS Census 2021
💰 Income: ABS Census 2021

🌍 Country of Birth 2021 Census

Born in Australia 1,025
Born Overseas 160

Top Countries of Birth (excl. Australia)

  • 1. England 76
  • 2. Germany 10
  • 3. Scotland 10
  • 4. Netherlands 9
  • 5. South Africa 9
  • 6. New Zealand 6
  • 7. France 5
  • 8. Italy 5
  • 9. Ireland 3
  • 10. Thailand 3

🧬 Ancestry 2021 Census

Top ancestries reported (people may report up to two)

English 565
Australian 430
Irish 226
Scottish 202
German 80
Dutch 32
Italian 28
Maltese 19
Welsh 18
Australian Aboriginal 12

👨‍👩‍👧 Parents' Birthplace 2021 Census

852
Both parents born in Australia
199
Both parents born overseas
140
One parent AU, one overseas

🛐 Religion 2021 Census

No Religion
49.2%
Christianity
37.1%
Judaism
0.3%
Buddhism
0.2%

📊 Age Distribution 2021 Census

0-4 years
51 (3.8%)
5-14 years
185 (13.7%)
15-19 years
71 (5.3%)
20-24 years
27 (2.0%)
25-34 years
67 (5.0%)
35-44 years
163 (12.1%)
45-54 years
142 (10.5%)
55-64 years
168 (12.5%)
65-74 years
182 (13.5%)
75-84 years
204 (15.2%)
85+ years
91 (6.8%)

Nearby Suburbs