Parmelia, situated approximately 34 kilometres south of Perth's central business district, is a residential suburb within the City of Kwinana. The suburb spans an area of about 4.1 square kilometres and is bordered by Medina to the northwest, Orelia to the north and northeast, Calista to the west, Bertram to the east, and Wellard to the south.
According to the 2021 Census, Parmelia had a population of 6,187 residents. The median age was 37 years, aligning closely with the national median. The suburb exhibits a diverse cultural composition, with 63% of residents born in Australia, followed by communities from England (8.3%), New Zealand (4.5%), and the Philippines (4.0%). Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people comprise 5.8% of the population.
Public transportation in Parmelia is facilitated by Transperth bus services, which connect residents to the Kwinana train station on the Mandurah line. This provides efficient access to Perth and other metropolitan areas. Major roads like Thomas Road and the Kwinana Freeway enhance motorists' connectivity.
Essential services are readily accessible. The Kwinana Marketplace shopping centre offers a variety of retail outlets, supermarkets, and dining options. Healthcare facilities, including general practitioners and pharmacies, are located within and around the suburb. Educational institutions such as Calista Primary School and Gilmore College serve the local community.
Parmelia boasts several recreational spaces. Parks like Peace Park and Morrit Park provide green spaces for outdoor activities. The nearby Kwinana Recreation Centre offers swimming pools, fitness facilities, and sports courts. Additionally, the Kwinana Adventure Park, located adjacent to the shopping centre, features extensive play areas suitable for families.
Historically, Parmelia is named after the ship 'Parmelia,' which brought settlers to the Swan River Colony in 1829. The suburb has evolved over the decades, with residential developments accommodating a growing population. Recent urban revitalisation projects have focused on enhancing community infrastructure and amenities.