Dubbo Regional
Dubbo Regional scores well on core operations (73/100) but only 36/100 on community services — a gap worth watching.
"Western NSW's service capital — Taronga Western Plains Zoo and wide-open spaces"
See where Dubbo Regional ranks: Best Councils in New South Wales 2026
New South Wales · regional council · Pop. 56,997
Data last updated: 2023-24 · Data confidence: high
Overall Score
51 out of 100
#38 of 79 regional councils in NSW
#65 in New South Wales
Score Breakdown
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| Sustainability | 51/100 |
| Community Services | 36/100 |
| Lifestyle & Amenity | 45/100 |
| Core Operations | 73/100 |
What This Means For You
Among regional councils, Dubbo Regional performs strongest in Core Operations (scoring 73 out of 100 against peers), with room to improve in Community Services (currently 36 out of 100).
What Makes This Place Unique
Western NSW's service capital — Taronga Western Plains Zoo and wide-open spaces
Dubbo is the major service centre for western NSW — a functional, friendly regional city that serves an enormous catchment area. Taronga's Western Plains Zoo is the star attraction, and the city has solid amenity for its size.
Known For
- Taronga Western Plains Zoo — open-range zoo experience
- Major service centre for western NSW
- Old Dubbo Gaol heritage site
- Strong agricultural economy — cattle, sheep, cotton
Living Here
Dubbo offers solid regional city services at very affordable prices. The zoo is world-class. Health and education services are good for a regional centre. It's 5+ hours from Sydney — you're committing to regional life.
Hidden Gem
The Macquarie River walk through town — a peaceful riverside trail that gives Dubbo an unexpected green corridor through its centre.