The District Council of Grant is the most southern local government area in South Australia. Situated on the south east coast it is bounded to the south and west by the Southern Ocean, the Victorian Border to the east and the Wattle Range Council to the north. The Council encircles the local government area of the City of Mount Gambier, and is located 450km from Adelaide and Melbourne.
The Council is predominantly rural with a number of small townships, serves a population of 8,203 residents and covers an area of 1,898 square kilometres. The area contains some of the richest and most productive agricultural land in South Australia.
Dairying, beef, and sheep production, wool, seed and grain production and horticulture are the predominant agricultural activities.
The fishing industry, in particular the rock lobster industry, is a significant factor in the economy of the area. Port MacDonnell is acknowledged as the "Southern Rock Lobster Capital of Australia". Forestry production and related secondary industries of logging, milling and timber processing are major economic and employment generating activities.
Features such as the spectacular coastline and the natural and built heritage, including Canunda National Park and Lake Bonney, make the area a popular and growing tourist destination and a recreational playground for local, national and international visitors.
The Council provides a range of support and development services as well as administrative and regulatory functions to improve the quality of life for all people who live, work, do business, enjoy leisure and visit the community and its environs.
Council services provided cover a range of community needs, and include:
- Road construction and maintenance
- Community Services (Libraries, sport and recreation, aged care)
- Septic Tank Effluent Schemes
- Economic development
- Town Planning and Building
- Environmental management
- Administration
The District Council of Grant area map is available to download here.
Declaration of Townships
12 townships in the District Council area were Gazetted on the 11 October 2018. The maps are available to download here.
2016 Census
The Census of Population and Housing provides a comprehensive picture of Australia's people, how they live and where they reside. The count is taken every five years and is managed by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).
Council access and analyse census data in order to obtain the statistical information required for planning and delivering services to the community.
A copy of Councils summary report on the 2016 Census is available here.
All census data and all ABS data can be found at www.abs.gov.au.
The District Council of Grant is a progressive and caring Council, providing responsible leadership, sustainable development, and cost effective quality services for residents within its resources.