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City Profile

Onkaparinga is made up of both urban and rural communities and is a major contributor to the state’s population and economy. A number of local businesses service international markets, while our region has played an important role in enhancing South Australia’s global reputation for the production of quality food and wine.  We have a young and diverse population – couples with children making up the most common family group. Almost a quarter of our residents were born overseas, giving us a rich cultural heritage. Strong community participation in local projects and volunteer organisations have given rise to a vibrant arts culture, regular festivals, exhibitions, concerts and sporting events.

Our City has a progressive outlook. A growing tourism industry, exports of quality local produce, thriving arts community and world-class manufacturing sector are all helping to put Onkaparinga on the map. Council is committed to building on these strengths, helping to create a future that supports both current and future generations.

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Our region
Located on the southern fringes of Adelaide at the gateway to the Fleurieu Peninsula, our region is renowned for its superb scenery, splendid wine and sensational events and is packed full with adventure activities, nature experiences and gastronomic delights.  

We are home to over 158,300 people from a range of social and cultural backgrounds across an area of 518 square kilometres. Most of our population live in established suburbs and residential estates, while others inhabit small coastal communities, farms and country towns. Many of our rural townships have important historical significance for the region and feature heritage-listed buildings.

 

 

 

Onkaparinga boasts 31 kilometres of pristine coastline. Here you can find open beaches, reefs, sand-dunes and cliffs – always popular with local swimmers, surfers and divers and thanks to a Mediterranean climate, it’s possible to enjoy life outdoors all year round.

 

For further information – The City of Onkaparinga

 

 

IndustryOur coastline taken by Mr Bryan Hearn. McLaren Vale Celebrating Diversity

 

 
 

 

 

Situated on the southern fringe of Adelaide, our City encompasses Southern Ocean beaches, ochre coloured hills, vineyards of a world-class standard and the sedate waters of the Onkaparinga River – the state’s second largest permanent river.

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City Profile
The City of Onkaparinga was formed on 1 July 1997, following the amalgamation of the former Cities of Happy Valley and Noarlunga with part of the District Council of Willunga.

The largest council in South Australia, we are home to more than 154,000 people from a range of social and cultural backgrounds and encompass 518 square kilometres of diverse landscapes.  

The name ‘Onkaparinga’ comes from ‘Ngangkiparinga’: an indigenous word meaning ‘The Women’s River’ with our Council logo reflecting the diverse geography of the region.Â