Strategic proximity

The centre of the Shire of Moorabool is located approximately 80 kilometres west of Melbourne, it abuts the Melton, Wyndham, Greater Geelong, Golden Plains, Ballarat, Hepburn and Macedon Ranges local government areas. 

The Shire is large and diverse covering 2,110 square kilometres with a population of approximately 27,000 (2008) and is experiencing significant growth.

Moorabool is increasingly becoming a lifestyle destination. More and more people are relocating to Moorabool to experience a more relaxed style of living whilst enjoying the higher incomes derived from metropolitan areas.

The Shire is central to the main western transport corridor that runs between Melbourne and Adelaide of which travels through the heart of the municipality, it is also well served by the Ballarat-Melbourne fast train and its own aerodrome. Moorabool Shire provides easy access to major national and international sea, air and rail transport and freight nodes within approximately 50 kilometres of Bacchus Marsh

Bacchus Marsh is the predominant township of the Shire. It is a mere 45 kilometres from the heart of Melbourne and is well placed to support population and employment growth. Home to approximately 17,000 (2008) the town has experienced strong population, commercial and industry growth over recent years due to its strategic foresight and proximity to metropolitan Melbourne.

Excellent services existing now and planned for the future will see the Moorabool Shire and even more attractive prospect: 

• The new fast train service
• Incorporation of Bacchus Marsh into zone 2 of the metropolitan public transport ticketing system, approximately 45 minute train service to Melbourne CBD from Bacchus Marsh
• The planned development of the Deer Park by-pass
• The lifestyle appeal of the Shire
• The increased commuter role of urban areas
• New technologies and changing work practices that allow people to work from home

As a result, Moorabool’s recent population growth rates are expected to continue.

Moorabool Shire Council has planned for and adopted strategies to accommodate this growth, particularly in Bacchus Marsh and Ballan. It also expects that demand for alternative lifestyle choices will result in population increases in the other small towns within the corridor and in particular Gordon which has the advantages of being located on existing public transport routes, and close to Ballarat and its University precinct. It also provides easy access to major national and international sea, air and rail transport and freight nodes, boasting its own aerodrome capable of significant growth.

Given these natural advantages, the 2005-06 State of the Regions Report (National Economics) identifies Moorabool as the “Most Sustainable Local Government Area” in the Central Highlands Region. This suggests that Moorabool is very well placed to continue its economic growth.