The Region

Fronting the Indian and Southern oceans and covering 24,000 square kilometres the South West is the most populous and economically diverse of WAs regions. Archaeological evidence shows that South West Aboriginal history dates back some 45,000 years. The Noongar people are the overall traditional owners and have widespread cultural and heritage links throughout the region.

Immerse Yourself

A picture-perfect pocket of WA with its endless stretches of pristine beaches, quirky animal encounters, and stunning natural attractions you’ll want to stay and work here forever. For the thrill seekers, the surfers, kayakers and abseilers adventure abounds. There is also a plethora of peaceful pursuits for those who are looking to chill.

Image The Margaret River. Courtesy Tourism Western Australia

Explore our South West Districts

One of WAs most recognised regions, it comprises Bunbury Geographe, Warren Blackwood and the Capes Region.

Click on a region to learn more.

Let your placement take you on an adventure!

Our South West is a magnet for those who love to experience life. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a meanderer, foodie or an artie, here are some highlights of this unforgettable region.

*Images courtesy Tourism Western Australia.

Koomal Dreaming

Wadandi custodian Josh ‘Koomal’ Whiteland will introduce you to the world's oldest living culture. Taste native foods, discover bush medicine, and experience traditional fire lighting. Image: Koomal Dreaming, Ngilgi Cave Ancient Lands Experience*

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Pristine beaches

Picture-perfect beaches along Cape Naturaliste, Geographe and Eagle Bay. Walk the Cape to Cape Track with prime views of the coastline, whales and wildflowers. Image: Eagle Bay Beach, Dunsborough*

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Marvelous marine life

Visit Bunbury's Dolphin Discovery Centre to experience their Marine Discovery & Interpretive Centre with its coral aquariums and 360-degree Dolphinarium. Meet and swim alongside Bunbury's local dolphins or join a dolphin eco cruise. Image: Dolphin Discovery Centre*

An iconic stroll

Stroll the 1.8km heritage listed Busselton Jetty. The longest timber-pilled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. Take a tour of the Underwater Observatory - one of six in the world - your window to Australia's greatest artificial reef. Image: Busselton Jetty*

World's largest dam wall mural

Visit Wellington National Park in Collie. Enjoy hiking the many trails or drive to Wellington Dam to see the world's largest dam wall mural. The area is now also a mecca for mountain bikers.

Ancient fossils

Leeuwin National Park boasts several hundred caves, with six open to the public including Mammoth Cave, a multi-chambered cave which is home to many ancient fossil remains. Also explore Jewel Cave, Lake Cave, Ngilgi Cave, Calgardup and Giants Cave. Image: Ngilgi Cave, Yallingup*

A-Maze-Ing antics

Enjoy the only hedge maze in Margaret River. Set amongst 5 hectares of beautiful gardens, you can also enjoy an 18-hole mini golf course, outdoor games, puzzles and homemade treats from the cafe! Image: A Maze'n Experience, Margaret River*

Rock-hopping, shore-scrambling

Coasteering experiences described as a blend of rock-hopping, shore-scrambling, swell-riding, and rock jumping for the ultimate aquatic adventure. See parts of the South West coast close-up that would otherwise be inaccessible. Image - Margaret River Adventure Co*

Mountain Bike mecca

Freestyle your way through 300kms of purpose-built trails in WAs Mountain Biking hot spots from Dwellingup to Collie. Visit the MTB mecca of Margaret River, known for its variety of newly built trails to suit all skill levels, all set within a uniquely pristine wilderness. Image: Margaret River Mountain Bike Tours*

Escape to the Cape

An iconic walking trail that runs along the Leeuwin-Naturaliste ridge. Spectacular coastal and forest scenery and an ever-changing display of colourful wildflowers and native flora will greet you as you venture along the Cape to Cape Track. Between September and December, you might even sight a migrating humpback whale. Image = Contos Beach, Cape to Cape Track*

What a drop

The Margaret River region is home to some of Australia's best wine. You'll find over 200 boutique wineries producing epic drops with 20% of fine wine in Australia coming from the region. Discover a world of passionate producers, creative chefs and hospitality heroes. It's also an awesome place to learn about fresh, seasonal produce by visiting the weekly Farmers Market. Image = Fraser Gallop Winery*

Tall timbers to enthrall

Unique for its proximity to the coast, you'll find the Boranup Karri Forrest just south of Margaret River. You'll feel dwarfed by the massive trees that line the road. Growing up to 60 metres in height, this is the furthest west that the tall pale-bared Karri trees grow. Image = Boyanup Forest, Margaret River*

An enviable lifestyle, a warm community

Known for its enviable lifestyle, safety and sense of community, our South West boasts high happiness levels and extensive allied health, nursing and midwifery employment opportunities.

You’ll find the South West a warm welcoming beacon with opportunities to get involved, be it social clubs, local events, community groups or volunteering projects.

Rich Indigenous history

The original inhabitants of the South West, the Noongar people have a rich cultural heritage and are known for their deep connection to the land.

Collaborative melting pot

The South West is a melting pot for artists and culturalists, community and collaborations. The perfect destination to come together with like-minded people.

Environmentally-minded

A community that values sustainability and a close relationship with the environment.

Something for everyone

Interested in food and wine, arts and culture, or local traditions? You’ll be spoilt for choice in the state’s South West with an exciting and diverse range of events to enjoy.

An annual events calendar boasts live music and festivals, adventure races including the Margaret River Pro and Cape to Cape MTB challenge, museum and art exhibits to theatrical performances and tours.

BASIS Student Led Clinic

Protected: BASIS Clinic

From 16th April
Northcliffe Family and Community Centre and Manjimup Wellness and Respite Centre

South West Career Expo

May 7th 2025
Bunbury Catholic College Gymnasium

Children’s University Workshops

April 14th 2025
Bunbury

Learning on the Run

Dates from Monday 31st March
Various Locations in

The Region

Immerse Yourself

Explore our South West Districts

Leschenault

Leschenault - Harvey Region

Leschenault Estuary - Attraction - Tourism Western Australia

Bunbury

Things to do, Where to stay & Events

City of Bunbury

Busselton

Tourism Western Australia

City of Busselton

Wellington

Wellington National Park

14 Things to do in Donnybrook-Balingup

Leeuwin

Edge of the world: the great Cape Leeuwin

Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park

Warren

Warren National Park - Attraction

Warren National Park - Nature Play WA

Blackwood

Sculptures in Boyup Brook

Mountain bike near Nannup