South Fremantle Power Station
An imposing Art Deco industrial relic on the coast, sparking debate about heritage and housing.
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Must-see attractions
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South Fremantle Power Station
Best Time
Best light for photography
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An imposing Art Deco industrial relic on the coast, sparking debate about heritage and housing.
"An eyesore or a heritage beauty depending what side of the fence you sit on."
Respect Private Property
The site is closed to the public; unauthorized entry can lead to legal issues.
Photography Opportunities
Great for dramatic shots, especially with its industrial and coastal setting.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Art Deco Industrial Architecture
Exterior
Admire the striking Art Deco industrial design of this imposing, disused power station.
Urban Exploration Hotspot
Exterior and surrounding areas
A magnet for urban explorers and street artists, offering a glimpse into a forgotten industrial past.
Coastal Location
North Coogee
Situated by the coast, offering scenic views and a dramatic backdrop for the derelict structure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Access & Security
Historical Significance & Future
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Respect Private Property
The site is closed to the public; unauthorized entry can lead to legal issues.
Photography Opportunities
Great for dramatic shots, especially with its industrial and coastal setting.
Consider Local Art
Artists sometimes create works inspired by or on the power station.
Check for Events
Occasionally used for art projects or filming.
Tips
from all over the internet
Respect Private Property
The site is closed to the public; unauthorized entry can lead to legal issues.
Photography Opportunities
Great for dramatic shots, especially with its industrial and coastal setting.
Consider Local Art
Artists sometimes create works inspired by or on the power station.
Check for Events
Occasionally used for art projects or filming.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The South Fremantle Power Station is a visually striking, heritage-listed industrial site that sparks debate due to its abandoned state amidst housing needs. While closed to the public and patrolled by security, its imposing Art Deco architecture and coastal location make it a subject of interest for photographers and urban exploration enthusiasts, though unauthorized entry is strongly discouraged.
"I’m a bit of a sucker for abandoned giant industrial spaces, so I am (of course) giving a favourable rating to a crumbling structure.
Another perspective:
At the time of writing this (2025), the entire country of Australia is going through a prolonged and unpleasant housing crisis, and it does seem superfluous to have an abandoned structure when they could instead build residential accommodation here.
But then again, being an ocean front location, it would not be affordable accommodation, if it were developed for that residential purpose.
More thoughts on the housing crisis:
The first Australians figured out how to survive and thrive across this vast continent with very low tech housing solutions.
Fast forward to today — With all our advanced knowledge and technology, we have people that I personally know who are living in very insecure accommodation, either carports, sheds or under bridges. Most of those people I mentioned have jobs, I should also note.
To me this seems to be a huge policy failure that we would allow this to happen in such a wealthy country, people in any type of leadership position should be deeply embarrassed that this is happening on their watch.
Charity is not an acceptable way out of this crisis, it’s something that local, state and federal government needs to work together to solve.
Having said all that — A place such as this is a mere snowflake on the tip of the iceberg and whether it gets turned into accommodation or not doesn’t really matter in the grand scheme of things. But it is worth considering how many places such as this sit dormant while hardworking people are eking out a scant living.
Poor buggers that are trying to survive living in a carport, shed or tent and still having to show up to work every day. That sort of hardship shouldn’t be happening here."
Michael Cooke
"This is an eyesore or a heritage beauty depending what side of the fence you sit on.
It is closed off to the public and has 24/7 security.
It is heritage listed so will be interesting if any further developments occur."
Clinton Hart
"I found the original building for SCP-1730 'What Happened to Sit e-13?'"
Axo3773
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The South Fremantle Power Station is located in North Coogee, Western Australia. While it's a prominent landmark, direct public access is restricted due to its heritage listing and security. Visitors typically view it from the exterior or surrounding coastal areas.
Limited parking may be available in the vicinity, particularly along the coastal roads. However, be mindful of any restricted areas or private property.
You can walk along the public coastal paths to view the exterior of the South Fremantle Power Station. However, entering the site itself is prohibited and patrolled by security.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are required as the South Fremantle Power Station is closed to the public. It is a heritage-listed site with ongoing security presence, and unauthorized entry is not permitted.
The South Fremantle Power Station is not open to the public, so it does not have set opening hours. It is an abandoned site with security present.
It is not safe or legal to go inside the South Fremantle Power Station. The site is derelict, potentially hazardous, and has security measures in place to prevent unauthorized access.
Access to the tunnels at the South Fremantle Power Station is highly restricted and dangerous. Urban explorers have reported difficulty accessing them, and it is strongly advised against attempting entry.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photographic opportunities are from the surrounding coastal areas, offering views of the power station's imposing facade against the ocean backdrop.
Drone usage may be subject to local regulations and restrictions. It's advisable to check with local authorities before flying a drone in the area.
While the structure is visually striking, night photography might be challenging due to security and lighting conditions. Daytime offers better visibility and detail.
🎫 👻 Paranormal & History
The South Fremantle Power Station is rumored to be haunted, with local speculation and paranormal interest surrounding the site.
Construction began after WWII, with the power station built in the 1950s. It was designed to utilize its coastal location for cooling and had rail access for coal.
The power station has been disused for many years, and its current abandoned state is part of its heritage status, though its future development is a topic of discussion.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the scenic beauty of the coastline and the impressive scale of the power station from a distance. It can serve as a visual landmark for a day out, emphasizing the industrial heritage without the risks associated with exploring abandoned sites.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+2While interior access is restricted, the exterior shots are plentiful. Consider capturing the building at different times of day for varied lighting conditions. Drone photography can offer spectacular aerial perspectives, showcasing the site's scale and its integration with the surrounding landscape.
+1🏛️ History Buffs
+1While the site is closed, researching its historical context and heritage listing can provide a deeper understanding of its importance. The surrounding area also holds historical significance, with landmarks like the statue of C.Y. O'Connor adding layers to the local narrative.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Abandonment: Urban Exploration
+2However, it's crucial to understand that this is a heritage-listed site with 24/7 security. Unauthorized entry is illegal and can be dangerous due to the building's condition. The thrill of exploration is often tempered by the reality of restricted access and the potential for trespassing charges.
For those interested in the aesthetic, many creators focus on the exterior views and the surrounding coastal landscape, which offers a dramatic backdrop. Drone footage highlights the sheer size and architectural details from unique aerial perspectives, providing a safe way to appreciate the site's presence.
+1Heritage, Housing, and Debate
This status often dictates how the site can be redeveloped, if at all.Compounding its status is the ongoing housing crisis in Australia. Reviewers and locals ponder the 'superfluous' nature of an abandoned structure when housing is desperately needed. The debate highlights a societal tension between preserving historical assets and addressing urgent social needs, particularly for affordable coastal accommodation.
Ultimately, the future of the South Fremantle Power Station remains uncertain. Whether it will be repurposed, preserved as is, or remain a subject of debate, it continues to be a landmark that sparks conversation about history, urban development, and community needs.
Paranormal Whispers and Artistic Inspiration
+1Beyond its spectral reputation, the power station serves as a muse for artists. Its dramatic industrial presence and coastal setting inspire creative works, from paintings to digital art. Some artists even incorporate its imagery into commissioned pieces, celebrating its unique aesthetic.
The site's history is also intertwined with local lore, including the tragic story of C.Y. O'Connor, whose statue is nearby, marking a somber historical connection to the area.
This blend of industrial history, potential hauntings, and artistic inspiration makes the South Fremantle Power Station a multifaceted landmark. 
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