Mount Lawley Suburb Profile
Situated a stone’s throw from Perth’s CBD, Mount Lawley strikes the perfect balance between inner-city ease and creative charm. With buses running along Beaufort Street and a train line at its edge, it’s a suburb that’s constantly humming — thanks in no small part to its string of cafés, restaurants, bars and boutiques that draw people in from all over.
Bound by the beauty of the Swan River to the east and Hyde Park to the south, living in Mount Lawley means slipping easily into its lively rhythm. Think morning coffee runs, slow wanders through Planet Books, and evenings spent hopping between small bars on Beaufort Street.
Step back a street, and you’ll find lively parks and leafy avenues lined with lovingly restored character homes — from Federation and Art Deco to Tudor and Californian Bungalow styles. The Astor Theatre stands proudly at the Beaufort and Walcott Street intersection, an Art Deco landmark anchoring the area’s rich architectural story.
A vibrant creative scene, community-driven events and an ever-evolving dining offering make living in Mount Lawley especially appealing for those craving culture at their doorstep. And with Inglewood to the north and Highgate flowing into Northbridge to the south, there’s always more to explore.
Area Features
Beaufort Street
Beaufort Street serves up an international menu every day of the week. Whether you’re after Italian, French, Mexican, Japanese, Irish, American or Australian, you’ll find it here and down the arcades. Not sure where to start? The multi-layered terraces of The Beaufort should hit the spot if you’re after libations and pub grub. Or for a taste of romantic French dining with undeniable cool, Le Rebelle is unmatched. With your hunger satiated, you’ll be primed for a browse at the many boutiques, Planet Books or Beaufort Street Books.
Astor Theatre
Originally named The Lyceum when it first opened in 1919, it received an Art Deco facelift and its new Astor Theatre name in 1939. This multi-purpose venue has been run as a dance hall, theatre and more recently as a performance venue hosting live music, comedy acts, movie screenings and community events. It’s worth visiting if only to sink into its red velvet seats and admire its magnificence.
Pristine Parklands
Mount Lawley residents are spoilt for choice when it comes to pristine parklands. Warndoolier (formerly Banks Reserve) offers a serene stretch along the Swan River, complete with a nature-based playground and an amphitheatre that’s long been a favourite for events thanks to its sweeping river views. Forrest Park brings the energy, with sports lovers filling the fields most days and a well-loved dog exercise area that keeps both two-legged and four-legged locals happy. And just beyond the suburb’s border lies Hyde Park, a beloved green escape where towering figs, picnic-perfect lawns and a peaceful lake create an idyllic backdrop from morning through to sunset.
With its tree-lined streets, heritage homes and café-packed main strip, Mount Lawley appeals to those who want an energetic inner-city lifestyle wrapped in residential calm. According to the local city council, the population of Mount Lawley sits at around 11,328 people, with a median age of 38 and a median weekly household income of $2,108.