Drouin

About Drouin

Location

Drouin is situated 90 kilometres south east of Melbourne in the West Gippsland region of Victoria. Set amongst rich agricultural land, Drouin is characterised by its beautiful collection of trees, both native and introduced. Drouin enjoys views to nearby Mount Baw Baw as a part of the Great Dividing Range to the north and the Strzelecki Ranges to the south. 

History

The township of Drouin was established after the railway line came through the area in 1878. While the railway was being constructed, three workers camps were set up in the vicinity of current township location. Initially the township of Drouin Junction was surveyed to be established after the railway was completed, it was later known simply as Drouin. A number of sawmills operated in the Drouin district, utilising wooden tramways to transport the timber to the rail line.  In the 1890’s a quarry was established to the south east of Drouin, also using the train line to transport the stone. As the land was being cleared of timber, later dairying was the main farming activity. A creamery and later a butter factory were established in the town and operated from the late 1800’s onwards.

Population

According to the 2021 census Drouin’s population is 15,287.

Future Growth

The township of Drouin is set in the south eastern growth corridor, and as such is experiencing significant growth.

In 2014 the Victorian Government gazetted the Drouin Precinct Structure Plan (PSP), which sets out the future growth areas for Drouin, along with important infrastructure to support the increased population. 

The Drouin PSP area covers 843 hectares and will accommodate 7,400 new dwellings.

The maps below show the areas which are planned to accommodate future subdivisions, and also show the important infrastructure which will be delivered as a part of the PSP.  Infrastructure items include:

  • 18 kilometres of new pedestrian and cycle paths
  • 46 hectares of new open space, including significant regional parks in the north and south of town
  • Two new shopping centres
  • Two new schools
  • Two new community centres
  • Expanded business and industry areas to increase the number of local jobs
  • A road network that provides alternative routes through and around the town, including the Drouin South Bypass, connecting Main South Road to Princes Way on the east side of Drouin
  • Upgraded waterways and drainage facilities

The Drouin PSP sets out the requirements for the standard of new subdivisions, including road widths and lot sizes in an effort to minimize urban sprawl. Click here for more information about Precinct Structure Plans.

The major infrastructure within the PSP area is funded by a Development Contribution Plan Fund.  Click here for more information about the Development Contribution Plans in PSP areas. 

Drouin Town Centre Strategy

The Drouin Town Centre Strategy provides a 30 year vision for the growth and development of the centre. The plan builds on the current strong and functional town centre and provides guidance for additional development for a growing population, improved pedestrian access and public infrastructure and services.

Council adopted the Drouin Town Centre Strategy on 15 December 2010.

For more information or to request a hard copy of the strategy, email the Strategic Planning Department or call 5624 2411.

Drouin Township Plan

The Drouin Township Plan 2020-2036 has been adopted. It provides an updated strategic approach to projects and initiatives for Drouin over the coming years, reflecting the changing and growing needs and aspirations of the town and community.  

This Plan sets out a transformative vision for the future growth and development of Drouin. It identifies practical and actionable strategies to be able to accommodate population growth, while not losing the much-loved character and amenity of Drouin.

For more information, go to the Drouin Township Plan 2020-2036 page. 

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