Paynesville
VIC 3880 • Rest of VIC
About Paynesville
Paynesville is a picturesque waterside town in the Shire of East Gippsland, Victoria, situated 293 kilometres east of Melbourne on the Gippsland Lakes between Lake King and Lake Victoria. With a population of around 3,636, it is known as Victoria's Boating Capital. The town has a higher proportion of retirees and a lower median income typical of regional holiday towns, reflecting its appeal as a sea-change destination.
The town offers a relaxed lakeside lifestyle centred around boating, fishing, and water sports on the Gippsland Lakes. A short ferry ride connects Paynesville to Raymond Island, famous for its wild koala colony. Local amenities include cafés, restaurants, a yacht club, and a vibrant arts community. It's popular with retirees, holidaymakers, and anyone seeking a quiet coastal lifestyle away from the city.
Paynesville falls under postcode 3880 and is governed by East Gippsland Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Gippsland East (Eastern Victoria) electorate.
Location
Transport & Commute
Bus Services
- V/Line Coach — Bairnsdale to Paynesville 25 min from Bairnsdale
Commute to Bairnsdale
🛣️ Regional town; nearest train station is Bairnsdale (V/Line to Melbourne, ~3.5 hours). Most residents rely on private vehicles.
Town centre is walkable with shops and waterfront, but a car is needed for most errands and travel to Bairnsdale.
Supermarkets Nearby
No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.
Schools
-
31-47 Ashley Street
Housing Costs 2021 Census
Demographics
Population Growth
Gender Distribution (Census 2021)
Income Comparison
Country of Birth 2021 Census
Top Countries of Birth (excl. Australia)
- 1. England 255
- 2. New Zealand 58
- 3. Netherlands 41
- 4. Scotland 38
- 5. Germany 29
- 6. India 19
- 7. Philippines 19
- 8. United States 13
- 9. South Africa 10
- 10. Wales 9
- 11. China 7
- 12. Nepal 7
- 13. Canada 5
- 14. Fiji 5
- 15. Malta 5
Ancestry 2021 Census
Top ancestries reported (people may report up to two)