Fremantle in Western Australia named Australia’s Top Tourism Town

A former penal colony with a dark past has come out on top of the 2025 Australian Top Tourism Town Awards.

The present-day charm and vibrancy of Fremantle in Western Australia is a stark contrast to its early colonial days, with Tourism Australia giving the port town its tick of approval.

“Freo” took the gold at an awards ceremony at Parliament House in Canberra this week.

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Bungendore, about 40km east of Canberra, took out the Small Tourist Town award, while the Gold Rush-era hamlet of Trentham in Victoria took out top spot in the Tiny Tourism Town category.

The awards are a “celebration of the heart and soul of Australia”, according to Tourism Australia.

“While cities often take the spotlight, it’s the smaller regions that offer travellers a true taste of Australia’s warmth, character and charm,” they said.

“The towns are judged within categories based on population, alongside their attractions, amenities, accommodation and the ability to welcome and host visitors with ease and heart.

“Every community has a story to tell, whether it be a mountain town, beach escape, desert hideaway or vineyard haven.”

The port town of Fremantle won first prize for its “maritime spirit and eclectic charm” as well as its historic streets, lively festivals, and UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Kiama came third in the Top Tourism Town awards. Credit: Airphoto Australia/Getty Images

Devonport in Tasmania’s northwest came second in the Top Tourism Town category, which recognises towns with over 5000 people, while Kiama in NSW came in third.

The Small Tourism Town category celebrates towns with a population under 5000 but more than 1500 people.

Bungendore near Canberra “where heritage meets handmade” won gold for is “bold artisan flair ... buzzing markets, eclectic galleries, and a backdrop of rolling hills”.

Deloraine, in Tasmania, was second, while Airlie Beach in Queensland was awarded the bronze.

Tourism’s Tiny Town award, celebrating towns with a population under 1500 people, was given to the popular weekend getaway of Trentham in Victoria, thanks to its “boutique stores, charming country pubs, vibrant art galleries and top-notch food and wine experiences”.