Wellington

SA 5259 • South Australia

184
Population (2021)
N/A
Median Income
100.23 km²
Area
N/A
Median Rent
RiversideHistoricRuralQuietTourist Hub

About Wellington

Wellington is a small historic township in South Australia situated on the Murray River, just upstream of where it empties into Lake Alexandrina, approximately 105 kilometres south-east of Adelaide. With a population of 184 residents recorded at the 2021 Census, Wellington falls within the Rural City of Murray Bridge and covers roughly 100 square kilometres of river flats and low-lying terrain. Established in November 1840, it is one of South Australia's oldest townships and occupies a scenic location at the meeting of the Murray River and the Coorong region.

Wellington is well known for its historic Murray River vehicle ferry, one of only a few cable-operated ferries still operating in South Australia, which connects the two banks of the river and provides access to the Coorong National Park and the Fleurieu Peninsula. The township attracts visitors for birdwatching, fishing, and camping along the river and lakeside environs. Murray Bridge, approximately 20 kilometres to the north-west, is the nearest urban centre providing schools, hospitals, shopping, and major services for Wellington residents.

Wellington falls under postcode 5259 and is governed by the local council Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Mackillop electorate.

📍 Location

Postcode
5259
Urban Area
N/A
LGA / Council
N/A
Federal Electorate
State Electorate
Type
Locality
Timezone
Adelaide (UTC+9:30)
Coordinates
-35.52°, 139.24°
Statistical Area
N/A
Area
100.23 km²
Elevation
0m

🚌 Transport & Commute

Bus Services

  • LinkSA regional coaches — Murray Bridge / Adelaide CBD ~20 min to Murray Bridge; ~1 hr 30 min to Adelaide

Commute to Adelaide CBD

Distance
105 km
By Train
No direct service; nearest regular bus connection is from Murray Bridge (~20km away)
By Car (Peak)
1 hr 15 min – 1 hr 30 min
By Car (Off-Peak)
1 hr – 1 hr 15 min

🛣️ Via Princes Highway (A8) through Murray Bridge. The Murray River ferry provides access to the Coorong and south-east SA.

Walkability Almost All Errands Require a Car

Small riverside township with minimal services; Murray Bridge provides the nearest shops, schools, and healthcare

🛒 Supermarkets Nearby

No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.

🎓 Schools

👥 Demographics

Census 2016
0
Census 2021
184
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 Wellington SA known for? +

Wellington is best known for its historic cable-operated vehicle ferry across the Murray River, one of only a handful still running in South Australia. The township sits at the junction of the Murray River and Lake Alexandrina, making it popular for fishing, birdwatching, and as a gateway to the Coorong National Park.

How far is Wellington from Adelaide? +

Wellington is approximately 105 kilometres south-east of Adelaide, around a 1 to 1.5 hour drive via the Princes Highway (A8) through Murray Bridge.

Does Wellington SA have public transport? +

Wellington has limited public transport, with LinkSA regional coach services connecting to Murray Bridge (approximately 20 minutes) and onwards to Adelaide. There is no passenger rail service directly serving Wellington; a car is the most practical option for most journeys.

What is the population of Wellington SA? +

According to the 2021 Census, Wellington had a population of 184 residents. The township has historically been small — the 2006 Census recorded 295 people — reflecting its character as a quiet rural community.

Is Wellington SA a good place to live? +

Wellington appeals to those seeking a quiet riverside lifestyle close to the Murray River, Lake Alexandrina, and the Coorong. It suits retirees, nature lovers, and those wanting a rural retreat within reasonable driving distance of Murray Bridge and Adelaide.

What is the postcode for Wellington SA? +

The postcode for Wellington, South Australia is 5259. Note this is distinct from Wellington in other Australian states.