What is Ross known for?

Ross is best known for the Ross River Homestead, a historic outback station property that serves as a tourism destination, and for its dramatic setting within the East MacDonnell Ranges. The area offers access to ancient gorges, wildlife, and significant Aboriginal cultural heritage.

How far is Ross from Alice Springs?

Ross is approximately 75 kilometres east of Alice Springs along the sealed Ross Highway, typically a 55–60 minute drive.

Does Ross have public transport?

There is no public transport serving Ross. A private vehicle is essential, as the locality is a remote pastoral area with no bus or rail connections.

What is the population of Ross?

According to the 2021 Census, Ross has a population of 806 residents, spread across approximately 18.6 square kilometres of remote Central Australian terrain.

Is Ross a good place to live?

Ross suits those seeking a deeply remote outback lifestyle close to the East MacDonnell Ranges. It offers natural beauty and wide open spaces, but residents must be self-sufficient as local services are very limited.

What is the postcode for Ross?

The postcode for Ross, NT is 873.

Ross

NT 873 • Northern Territory

806

Population (2021)

N/A

Median Income

18.65 km²

Area

N/A

Median Rent

RemoteOutbackRuralHistoric

About Ross

Ross is a remote pastoral locality in Central Australia, situated approximately 75 kilometres east of Alice Springs along the Ross Highway in the Northern Territory. With a population of 806 according to the 2021 Census, the area encompasses the historic Ross River corridor and the rugged MacDonnell Ranges landscape. The locality reflects the isolated, raw character of Australia's Red Centre, with vast open country, ancient sandstone ridges, and a landscape of outstanding natural beauty.

The area is home to the Ross River Homestead, a well-known outback tourism property offering accommodation and station experiences within reach of the East MacDonnell Ranges. Visitors and residents are drawn to dramatic gorges, abundant wildlife, and the rich Aboriginal cultural heritage of the surrounding region. Access is via sealed road from Alice Springs, though services are extremely limited and a private vehicle is essential for day-to-day life.

Ross falls under postcode 873 and is governed by the local council Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Namatjira electorate.

📍 Location

State

Northern Territory

Postcode

873

Urban Area

N/A

LGA / Council

N/A

Federal Electorate

Lingiari

State Electorate

Namatjira

Type

Locality

Timezone

Darwin (UTC+9:30)

Coordinates

-23.74°, 133.91°

Statistical Area

N/A

Area

18.65 km²

Elevation

🚌 Transport & Commute

Bus Services

No scheduled bus service — Alice Springs Car only

Commute to Alice Springs CBD

Distance

75 km

By Train

No train service

By Car (Peak)

1 hour

By Car (Off-Peak)

55 min

🛣️ Accessible via sealed Ross Highway; no public transport

Walkability Almost All Errands Require a Car

No local amenities or footpaths; a car is essential for all daily needs

🛒 Supermarkets Nearby

No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.

🎓 Schools

No schools listed for this postcode.

👥 Demographics

Census 2016

Census 2021

806

▲ 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