Cowell
SA 5602 • Rest of SA
About Cowell
Cowell is a small coastal town situated on Franklin Harbour on the eastern Eyre Peninsula in South Australia, approximately 494 kilometres from Adelaide and 111 kilometres south of Whyalla. Home to a population of around 1,130 people (2016 Census), Cowell serves as the administrative centre of the District Council of Franklin Harbour. The town is distinctly known as the jade capital of Australia, with nearby deposits of nephrite jade and Cowell Marble attracting collectors and visitors from across the country.
Cowell offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle centred on Franklin Harbour, a near-landlocked natural harbour renowned for its calm waters and excellent fishing, particularly for King George whiting. The town provides essential services including a hospital with a resident GP, a supermarket, pharmacy, two hotels, and caravan parks catering to tourists and grey nomads. The Cowell Area School (R–12) serves local families, while the community is supported by volunteer Ambulance, Sea Rescue, and Country Fire Service brigades, reflecting a tight-knit rural character.
Cowell falls under postcode 5602 and is governed by Franklin Harbour Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Flinders electorate.
Location
Transport & Commute
Bus Services
- Premier Stateliner coach — Adelaide (via Port Augusta & Whyalla) Approx. 5-6 hrs
Commute to Adelaide CBD
🛣️ Cowell is a remote Eyre Peninsula town; Lincoln Highway connects north to Whyalla and south to Port Lincoln
Small town with most services within a short drive; limited footpaths
Supermarkets Nearby
No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.
Schools
-
42 Story Road
Housing 2021 Census
4 state housing + 16 community housing dwellings (ABS 2021 Census)
Educational Institution Attending 2021 Census
School Sector Breakdown
Demographics
Population Growth
Gender Distribution (Census 2021)
Income Comparison
Country of Birth 2021 Census
Top Countries of Birth (excl. Australia)
- 1. England 33
- 2. New Zealand 9
- 3. South Africa 8
- 4. Germany 7
- 5. Netherlands 6
- 6. Philippines 5
- 7. Scotland 3
- 8. United States 3
Ancestry 2021 Census
Top ancestries reported (people may report up to two)