French Island (Victoria)

French Island
Bellarmarin (Boonwurrung)
Looking west over Western Port to Mornington Peninsula from the coast road
French Island
Location near Bass Coast Shire
Coordinates: 38°21′00″S 145°22′12″E / 38.35000°S 145.37000°E / -38.35000; 145.37000
CountryAustralia
StateVictoria
LGA
Government
 • State electorate
 • Federal division
Area
 • Total
170 km2 (66 sq mi)
Population
 • Total141 (SAL 2021)
Postcode
3921

French Island (Boonwurrung: Bellarmarin, Woone, or Jouap) is the largest coastal island of Victoria, Australia. Compared with Philip Island and areas on the surrounding mainland, French Island is isolated and undeveloped. There are no water mains, electricity mains, or medical services on the island. There is one small general store and post office located on Tankerton Road about 3 km (1.9 mi) from Tankerton Jetty, and a small school. Many of the locals actively promote environmental tourism. Visitor accommodation includes camping, bed and breakfast, guesthouse, and farmstay.

The population was recorded as 139 in 2021. The island is an unincorporated area under the direct administration of the Government of Victoria. Around 70 per cent of the island is covered by French Island National Park, and the waters directly north of the are a marine park known as French Island Marine National Park.