Skip to main content
BestSchools
Account

New South Wales location profile

Dubbo NSW 2830

Dubbo is a major regional hub in the Orana region of NSW, known for its family-friendly lifestyle, affordability, and strong services sector. It blends country charm with substantial amenities, including a major hospital, retail centres, education, and the renowned Taronga Western Plains Zoo.

Explore schools in Dubbo

Compare local schools using the BestSchools list and interactive map.

Compare schools

Why families consider Dubbo

A diverse regional city with families, professionals, students, and a significant Indigenous community on Wiradjuri Country; lifestyles span agriculture, health, education, retail, and public sector work, with a relaxed pace and strong community sport and events.

Amenities & services

  • Orana Mall Shopping Centre
  • Dubbo Square
  • Riverdale Shopping Centre
  • Dubbo Hospital (Base Hospital) and specialist clinics
  • Restaurants and cafes along Macquarie Street
  • Dubbo City Regional Airport
  • Western Plains Cultural Centre (gallery and museum)
  • Macquarie Regional Library – Dubbo Branch (CBD, Macquarie St)
  • Charles Sturt University Library – Dubbo Campus (Tony McGrane Place)
  • University of Sydney School of Rural Health Library (Dubbo Hospital precinct)

Transport & connectivity

  • Dubbo railway station (NSW TrainLink XPT to/from Sydney)
  • Local Dubbo Buslines routes
  • NSW TrainLink regional coach services
  • Dubbo City Regional Airport (flights to Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne)
  • Mitchell Highway (A32)
  • Newell Highway (A39)
  • Golden Highway (B84)

Lifestyle & recreation

  • Taronga Western Plains Zoo
  • Old Dubbo Gaol
  • Dubbo Regional Theatre and Convention Centre (DRTCC)
  • Dubbo Aquatic Leisure Centre
  • Apex Oval (Caltex Park)
  • Barden Park Athletics Centre
  • Victoria Park
  • Dubbo Regional Botanic Garden (Shoyoen Japanese Garden, Oasis Valley)
  • Macquarie River Foreshore and Tracker Riley Cycleway
  • Elston Park & Rose Garden
  • Sandy Beach Reserve
  • Regand Park Wetland

Education context

Multiple long day care centres, preschools and family day care across 2830; generally good availability for ages 2–5, with infant places often waitlisted; OSHC offered at many primary schools.

  • Charles Sturt University – Dubbo Campus (Tony McGrane Place)
  • University of Sydney – School of Rural Health (Dubbo Base Hospital precinct)