🔍

Bellbrae

VIC 3228 • Rest of VIC

1,346
Population (2021)
$80,912
Median Household Income
50.80 km²
Area
$380/wk
Median Rent
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
Victoria
Postcode
3228
Urban Area
N/A
LGA / Council
Surf Coast
Federal Electorate
Corangamite
State Electorate
Polwarth (Western Victoria)
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

🚔 Crime Statistics LGA-wide

These are the latest rates for the Surf Coast Local Government Area, which contains Bellbrae. Rates are per 100,000 residents for the year ending September 2025; trends compare 2 and 10 year periods.

Break & enter (dwelling)
135.6 / 100k
2yr Stable 10yr Down 71.3%
Motor vehicle theft
98.6 / 100k
2yr Up 84.6% 10yr Down 57.1%
Non-FV assault
128.2 / 100k
2yr Up 14.5% 10yr Stable
Robbery (unarmed)
2.5 / 100k
2yr — 10yr Down 62.4%
Steal from vehicle
347.7 / 100k
2yr Up 15.8% 10yr Down 46.5%
View all offence subgroups for Surf Coast →

Source: Crime Statistics Agency Victoria

🏠 Housing 2021 Census

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

🎓 Educational Institution Attending 2021 Census

School Sector Breakdown

👥 Demographics

Census 2016
865
Census 2021
1,346
▲ 55.6% growth

Population Growth

Gender Distribution (Census 2021)

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

2021 Census income breakdown

Personal = median for one earner. Household = all members of a dwelling pooled. Family = related members only. Annual = weekly × 52.

Personal
$40,352 / yr
$776/wk
Household
$80,912 / yr
$1556/wk
Family
$119,652 / yr
$2301/wk

Personal Income Comparison (2016 vs 2021)

📊 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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bellbrae known for? +

Bellbrae is a peaceful rural locality on Victoria's Surf Coast, nestled between Torquay and Anglesea in the Surf Coast Shire. Life in Bellbrae revolves around its semi-rural character, with large blocks and leafy surroundings providing a country feel just minutes from the coast.

How far is Bellbrae from Melbourne CBD? +

Bellbrae is approximately some distance from Melbourne CBD, with a typical drive taking around 30-60 minutes depending on traffic and route taken.

Does Bellbrae have public transport? +

Bellbrae has limited public transport options. V/Line coach services connect some regional towns, but a car is the most practical way to get around in this area.

What is the population of Bellbrae? +

According to the 2021 Census, Bellbrae has a population of approximately 1,346 residents, a modest but established community. The suburb falls within the Surf Coast (Shire) local government area.

Is Bellbrae a good place to live? +

Bellbrae is highly appealing to those seeking a coastal lifestyle, with easy access to beaches, waterways, and outdoor recreation. It suits families, retirees, and sea-changers looking for a relaxed pace of life close to nature.

What is the postcode for Bellbrae? +

The postcode for Bellbrae, VIC is 3228. This postcode covers Bellbrae and may also serve nearby localities within the same postcode zone.