Lexi Webster
Albany is a port city located on the south coast of Western Australia, about 408km south of Perth. It is the southernmost town and seaport in the state, inhabited by the Minang Noongar Aboriginal people for around 18,000 years before Europeans arrived. The city covers an area of 4,312.3 square kilometres, including the Greater Albany metropolitan area, the Port of Albany, and the surrounding agricultural district and national parks. Albany has a population of approximately 38,000 people, making it the largest population centre in the Great Southern region.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | South coast of Western Australia |
| Distance from Perth | 408-410 km |
| Distance from Fremantle | 386 km |
| Population | 31,574 (2006); 33,650 (2011); 36,000 (2016); 37,800 (2018); 38,000+ (2025) |
| Area | 4,312.3 sq km |
| Industries | Agriculture, timber products, tourism, aquaculture |
| Historical Sites | Albany Heritage Park, National ANZAC Centre, Princess Royal Fortress, Patrick Taylor Cottage, Old Farm Strawberry Hill, St John's Church |
| Natural Attractions | The Gap, Natural Bridge, West Cape Howe National Park, Bibbulmun Track, Bald Head Walk, Torndirrup National Park, Stirling Ranges |
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What You'll Learn
Population: 37,800 (2018)
Albany, Western Australia, had a population of 37,800 in 2018. It is a city with a rich history and a diverse range of attractions, making it a popular tourist destination. Located on the southern coast of Western Australia, Albany was initially inhabited by the Minang Noongar Aboriginal people for thousands of years before European settlement. The city boasts a Mediterranean climate, with dry, warm summers, mild winters, and pleasant springs and autumns.
The population of Albany has grown over the years, with an estimated population of 34,632 by the end of June 2025. The city is known for its natural environment and heritage preservation, attracting tourists from all over. Albany's main industries include aquaculture, agriculture, timber products, and tourism, contributing to its economic growth and appeal.
The religious makeup of Albany is predominantly Christian, with 55.8% of the population identifying as Christian in some form. However, the largest single religious group is those with no religion, making up 36.9% of the population. The population density of Albany is 111 people per square kilometre, and the average age is 42 years old.
Albany has a diverse workforce, with technicians and trade workers making up the largest portion at 16.1%. Professionals, community and personal service workers, labourers, and clerical and administrative workers also make up significant portions of the workforce. The city's major industries, such as aged care, supermarkets, hospitals, cafes, and education, provide employment opportunities for its residents.
Albany's population also consists of a significant number of males, with 73.9% male and 51.2% female, according to the census. The city's growth and development have been carefully managed, with a mayor and councillors serving in the local government. Albany continues to be a popular destination for tourists and those seeking a cooler climate, contributing to its vibrant and diverse community.
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Distance from Perth: 408km
The distance from Perth to Albany, Western Australia, is approximately 408 kilometres or 242 miles by plane and 262 miles or 422 kilometres by car. The drive from Perth to Albany takes around 4.5 to 5 hours without stopping. The trip can be done via the Albany Highway, a relatively straight road that is sealed all the way, or via the coast and Margaret River along the South West Edge road trip. The flight time is about an hour, but considering the time required to get to the airport and check in, the time savings compared to the drive are minimal.
Albany is the southernmost town and seaport of Western Australia, lying on the northern shore of Princess Royal Harbour in King George Sound. The area was inhabited by the Minang Noongar Aboriginal people for about 18,000 years before being encountered by Europeans in 1791. The town has a population of over 38,000 people, making it the biggest population centre in the Great Southern region. It is the region's administrative, commercial, and retail centre and is known for its agriculture, timber products, and tourism.
Albany has a mild summer climate and serves as a resort town for Perth residents. It is a popular location for whale watching during the annual migration of humpback and southern right whales from May to October. The town also has a whaling museum, housed in a former whaling station. Other attractions include the Western Power Wind Farm, the Museum, Albany Convict Gaol, The Princess Royal Fortress (known as The Forts), and Patrick Taylor Cottage, one of Western Australia's oldest dwellings.
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Industries: Agriculture, timber, aquaculture, tourism
Albany, Western Australia, is a port city in the Great Southern region, 418 kilometres southeast of the state capital, Perth. The city's main industries are tourism, fishing, timber, and agriculture.
Agriculture has long been a key industry in Albany. The Old Farm, Strawberry Hill, established in 1827, is the oldest farm in Western Australia. It was founded as a government farm to feed colonial soldiers stationed around King George Sound. Today, the property is a museum, vested in the National Trust of Western Australia.
Albany is also a significant timber industry hub. The city is a major export hub for wood chips and logs from certified plantation forests. New Forests Timber Products, for example, exports timber products from Albany to markets across the Asia-Pacific region. The company sources its timber from certified forestry estates, specialising in high-quality hardwood and softwood chips and logs from eucalyptus plantations.
Aquaculture is another important industry in Albany. The Albany Shellfish Hatchery, for instance, produces shellfish spat on a large commercial scale, including oysters, mussels, and scallops.
Albany is also a popular tourist destination, known for its natural environment and heritage preservation. The city boasts a range of historical sites, including the Museum, Albany Convict Gaol, The Princess Royal Fortress, and Patrick Taylor Cottage, one of Western Australia's oldest dwellings. The city's rugged coastline features natural sights such as the "Natural Bridge" and the "Gap", as well as pristine white-sand beaches. Albany is also the southern terminus of the Bibbulmun Track walking trail.
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Historical sites: The Forts, Old Farm, St John's Church
Albany, Western Australia, is a port city with a rich colonial past that is reflected in its historic buildings and scenic streetscapes. The city was founded on 26 December 1826 as a military outpost and is the oldest colonial settlement in Western Australia.
Historical Sites: The Forts, Old Farm, St Johns Church
The Forts
The Princess Royal Fortress, commonly known as The Forts, was opened in 1893 and was the first federal defence of Australia. The fortress was staffed by eight officers and five men of the South Australian Permanent Artillery in 1902. In 1956, all coastal defences were closed.
Old Farm
The Old Farm, Strawberry Hill, was established in 1827 as a government farm to feed colonial soldiers stationed around King George Sound. It is the oldest farm in Western Australia. The homestead became the home of the Government Resident in 1833 and is an example of a colonial gentleman's residence. The property is now a house museum.
St Johns Church
The Church of St John the Evangelist, also known as St John's Church, is an Anglican Church built in the colonial style. Construction began in 1841, and it was consecrated in October 1848. The tower was added in 1851, and various other changes and additions were made in the ensuing years. The church is constructed from locally quarried stone and is framed by peppermint trees, which are native to the area. St John's Church is the oldest church in Western Australia.
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Natural beauty: White beaches, rugged coast, mountain ranges
Nestled on the edge of a placid harbour, Albany in Western Australia is a haven of natural beauty. With its rugged coastline, pristine white beaches, and nearby mountain ranges, it offers a wealth of scenic delights for visitors to explore and enjoy.
The coastline of Albany is a sight to behold, characterised by sculpted rocks and peaceful sandy beaches. The 'Natural Bridge' and the 'Gap' are notable features along this rugged shore, providing a dramatic contrast to the serene waters that lap against them. The beaches of Albany are renowned for their fine white sand, which stretches for miles and is complemented by the brilliant blue of the sea. Little Beach, with its huge rock formation, is a favourite among visitors, offering stunning visuals and a unique experience.
The Torndirrup National Park is another gem, boasting beautiful beaches and nature trails through fragrant bushland. For those seeking adventure, the Two People's Bay Nature Reserve is a must-visit, with its secluded beaches and picturesque landscapes. The Bibbulmun Track, a 1000-kilometre bushwalking trail, invites walkers to immerse themselves in the natural surroundings, offering a journey through fragrant bushland and along the rugged coastline.
Albany is also conveniently located near two low mountain ranges, the Porongurups and the Stirling Ranges. The Stirling Ranges, formed as Australia separated from Antarctica, hold cultural significance for the local Aboriginal people, the Mineng and Koreng/Goreng sub-groups of the Noongar Nation. Bluff Knoll, the highest peak in this range, stands at 1,099 metres (3,606 feet) above sea level, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
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Frequently asked questions
Albany's population was 37,800 in 2018. Other sources state the population to be over 36,000 in 2016 and over 38,000 in 2025.
The City of Albany local government area covers 4,312.3 square kilometres, including the Greater Albany metropolitan area, the Port of Albany, the surrounding agricultural district, and some national parks.
Albany is located 408km to 450km south of Perth, Western Australia's capital. It takes around 4 to 5 hours to drive from Perth to Albany, and just over an hour to fly.
