🔍

Coen

QLD 4871 • Queensland

320
Population (2021)
N/A
Median Income
7893.95 km²
Area
N/A
Median Rent
RemoteRuralCape YorkOutback

About Coen

Coen is a small but historically significant township in central Cape York Peninsula, situated approximately 580 kilometres north-west of Cairns within the Cook Shire, Queensland. With a 2021 Census population of 320 and a locality area of nearly 7,900 square kilometres, it stands as one of the few service centres along the Peninsula Developmental Road — the main route traversing Cape York. The township has a notably high rate of social housing, reflecting the presence of Indigenous community members alongside the broader rural population.

Coen serves as a vital rest and resupply point for travellers heading north toward the tip of Cape York, and becomes particularly busy during the dry season (May to October) when four-wheel-drive touring is at its peak. Essential services include a hospital, police station, primary school, general stores, fuel outlets, a hotel and motel, post office, and ranger base. Coen Airport, located 24 kilometres north of the town, provides scheduled air connections. The surrounding landscape is spectacular tropical savannah country, home to diverse birdlife and wildlife, making Coen a gateway to some of Australia's most remote wilderness.

Coen falls under postcode 4871 and is governed by the local council Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Traeger electorate.

📍 Location

State
Queensland
Postcode
4871
Urban Area
N/A
LGA / Council
N/A
Federal Electorate
Leichhardt
State Electorate
Traeger
Type
Locality
Timezone
Brisbane (UTC+10)
Coordinates
-16.93°, 145.99°
Statistical Area
N/A
Area
7893.95 km²
Elevation
0m

🚌 Transport & Commute

Bus Services

  • Limited coach/charter services — Cairns Approx. 8–10 hrs by road (4WD required in wet season)

Commute to Cairns CBD

Distance
580 km
By Train
No train service
By Car (Peak)
7–9 hrs (dry season, 4WD recommended)
By Car (Off-Peak)
7–9 hrs (road conditions permitting)

🛣️ Access via Peninsula Developmental Road. Coen Airport (24 km north) has scheduled flights to Cairns and nearby communities. Road may be impassable in wet season.

Walkability Almost All Errands Require a Car

Basic township services are accessible on foot within Coen, but the remote location means a vehicle or aircraft is needed for most travel

🛒 Supermarkets Nearby

No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.

🎓 Schools

👥 Demographics

Census 2016
0
Census 2021
320
▲ 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 Coen known for? +

Coen is known as one of the key service centres on the Peninsula Developmental Road in Cape York, providing essential supplies, fuel, accommodation, and healthcare for travellers heading to the tip of Australia. It is also the main township for the surrounding Cook Shire region and an important community hub for local Indigenous residents.

How far is Coen from Cairns? +

Coen is approximately 580 kilometres north-west of Cairns by road. The drive takes around 7 to 9 hours in the dry season, typically requiring a four-wheel drive vehicle. Coen Airport (24 km north of town) offers scheduled flights, making air travel the preferred option for many.

Does Coen have public transport? +

Coen has no train or regular bus service. Coen Airport, located 24 kilometres north of the township, provides scheduled air services connecting the community to Cairns and nearby Cape York localities. A vehicle is essential for road travel, with 4WD recommended on the Peninsula Developmental Road.

What is the population of Coen? +

According to the 2021 Census, Coen has a population of 320 residents. The locality covers nearly 7,900 square kilometres, making it one of the largest by area in Cape York Peninsula. Social housing accounts for about 48% of dwellings, reflecting the significant Indigenous community presence.

Is Coen a good place to live? +

Coen offers a genuinely remote lifestyle surrounded by stunning Cape York wilderness. It suits those working in community services, healthcare, education, or tourism, or those seeking a deep connection to remote Australia. Amenities are basic but essential, and the community atmosphere is strong, though the isolation and distance from major centres is a significant consideration.

What is the postcode for Coen? +

The postcode for Coen, Queensland is 4871.