🔍

Port Macdonnell

SA 5291 • South Australia

859
Population (2021)
N/A
Median Income
41.38 km²
Area
N/A
Median Rent
CoastalRuralFishing TownQuiet

About Port Macdonnell

Port Macdonnell is a small coastal town and locality on the Limestone Coast of South Australia, situated within the District Council of Grant approximately 26 kilometres south of Mount Gambier and 395 kilometres south-east of Adelaide. It is notable as the southernmost town on mainland South Australia, perched on the windswept shores of Discovery Bay near Cape Northumberland. With a population of around 859, the community has a strong maritime character shaped by generations of fishing and aquaculture activity.

The town is best known as a major rock lobster fishing port, with the local fishing fleet a defining feature of the harbour. Cape Northumberland Lighthouse, a historic landmark, sits nearby and is a popular destination for visitors exploring the Limestone Coast. Residents enjoy a quiet coastal lifestyle with access to rugged beaches, dramatic sea cliffs, and the broader natural attractions of the region including the nearby Lower Glenelg National Park. Mount Gambier, approximately 30 minutes north, provides access to larger retail, health, and education services.

Port Macdonnell falls under postcode 5291 and is governed by the local council Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Mount Gambier electorate.

📍 Location

State
South Australia
Postcode
5291
Urban Area
N/A
LGA / Council
N/A
Federal Electorate
Barker
State Electorate
Mount Gambier
Type
Locality
Timezone
Adelaide (UTC+9:30)
Coordinates
-37.93°, 140.72°
Statistical Area
N/A
Area
41.38 km²
Elevation
0m

🚌 Transport & Commute

Bus Services

  • Limited regional coach — Mount Gambier Approx. 30 min

Commute to Adelaide CBD

Distance
395 km
By Train
No rail service available
By Car (Peak)
4–4.5 hrs
By Car (Off-Peak)
4 hrs

🛣️ Princes Highway connects to Mount Gambier and Adelaide; no passenger rail on the Limestone Coast

Walkability Almost All Errands Require a Car

Most errands require a car; limited local shops in town but larger services are in Mount Gambier

🛒 Supermarkets Nearby

No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.

🎓 Schools

👥 Demographics

Census 2016
0
Census 2021
859
▲ 0% growth

Population Growth

Gender Distribution (Census 2021)

Income 2016
N/A
Income 2021
N/A
▲ 0% increase

Income Comparison

📊 Population: ABS Census 2021
💰 Income: ABS Census 2021

Nearby Suburbs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Port Macdonnell known for? +

Port Macdonnell is best known as a major rock lobster fishing port and the southernmost town on mainland South Australia. The historic Cape Northumberland Lighthouse and rugged coastal scenery make it a popular stop on the Limestone Coast tourist trail.

How far is Port Macdonnell from Adelaide CBD? +

Port Macdonnell is approximately 395 kilometres south-east of Adelaide, making it around a 4 to 4.5 hour drive via the Princes Highway.

Does Port Macdonnell have public transport? +

Public transport is very limited in Port Macdonnell. There is no passenger rail service to the Limestone Coast region; limited regional coach services connect to Mount Gambier, about 30 minutes north. A car is the most practical way to get around.

What is the population of Port Macdonnell? +

Port Macdonnell has a population of approximately 859 residents, a modest coastal community that has maintained a stable character built around fishing and tourism.

Is Port Macdonnell a good place to live? +

Port Macdonnell appeals to those seeking a quiet, authentic coastal lifestyle far from urban centres. It suits retirees, fishing enthusiasts, and nature lovers, with Mount Gambier providing nearby access to schools, hospitals, and shopping.

What is the postcode for Port Macdonnell? +

The postcode for Port Macdonnell is 5291, located in the Limestone Coast region of South Australia.