🔍

Carpenter Rocks

SA 5291 • South Australia

87
Population (2021)
N/A
Median Income
42.67 km²
Area
N/A
Median Rent
CoastalRemoteRuralPeacefulHistoric

About Carpenter Rocks

Carpenter Rocks is a small coastal locality in the far south-east of South Australia, situated approximately 35 kilometres south-west of Mount Gambier within the District Council of Grant. With a population of just 87 residents according to the 2021 Census, it is a quiet, close-knit community set along the rugged Southern Ocean coastline. The postcode area has a median taxable income of $48,050, and the locality spans a generous 42.67 square kilometres of coastal and pastoral land.

The area is renowned for its exceptional rock lobster fishing industry, with Bucks Bay providing a safe harbour for local fishing boats. Carpenter Rocks holds significant maritime heritage, most notably the 1859 wreck of the passenger steamer Admella off Cape Banks, and the heritage-listed Cape Banks Lighthouse. The locality serves as a gateway to Canunda National Park and offers rugged coastal scenery that attracts anglers, divers, and nature lovers seeking a remote seaside escape.

Carpenter Rocks 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
42.67 km²
Elevation
0m

🚌 Transport & Commute

Bus Services

  • None — No public bus service to Carpenter Rocks N/A

Commute to Adelaide CBD

Distance
450 km
By Train
No direct train service
By Car (Peak)
4.5-5 hours
By Car (Off-Peak)
4-4.5 hours

🛣️ Mount Gambier (35 km) is the nearest major town for services and fuel

Walkability Almost All Errands Require a Car

A remote coastal locality with no shops or services; a car is essential for all errands

🛒 Supermarkets Nearby

No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.

🎓 Schools

👥 Demographics

Census 2016
0
Census 2021
87
▲ 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 Carpenter Rocks known for? +

Carpenter Rocks is best known for its thriving southern rock lobster fishing industry, the heritage-listed Cape Banks Lighthouse, and the historic 1859 Admella shipwreck off Cape Banks, one of Australia's worst maritime disasters.

How far is Carpenter Rocks from Mount Gambier? +

Carpenter Rocks is approximately 35 kilometres south-west of Mount Gambier, about a 25-minute drive via the Carpenter Rocks Road.

Does Carpenter Rocks have public transport? +

No, Carpenter Rocks has no public transport services. A private vehicle is essential for getting around. Mount Gambier, the nearest major town, has a local city bus service.

What is the population of Carpenter Rocks? +

According to the 2021 Census, Carpenter Rocks has a population of 87 residents, making it a very small coastal community in South Australia's south-east.

Is Carpenter Rocks a good place to live? +

Carpenter Rocks suits those seeking a remote, peaceful coastal lifestyle with outstanding fishing and natural scenery. It is very car-dependent and residents rely on Mount Gambier for shops, schools, and services.

What is the postcode for Carpenter Rocks? +

The postcode for Carpenter Rocks, South Australia is 5291.