Economic Development

Natural resources are the foundation for, and strongly linked to economic and social benefits within the Mid Murray Council region. The economy is dominated by primary production (broadacre grains, livestock, horticulture, fruit, nuts and wine grapes) and both production and revenue from these industries and the secondary industries that depend on them are closely tied to climatic conditions.  Tourism has traditionally provided an important second source of revenue to the region.

Economic Development services are supported by Regional Development Australia – Murraylands and Riverland Inc. which promotes industry to our Council area.  Council also provides funding for tourism promotion projects through Destination Riverland, Murraylands Tourism Partnership and Murraylands Regional Tourist Association.

Mid Murray on the Move! – Economic, Tourism and Development News

An initiative of the Mid Murray Council this newsletter is about promoting and sharing economic, tourism and development news that is occurring throughout our region.

See the thirty third edition of Mid Murray on the Move! here – Newsletter 33 – September 2026

If you would like to subscribe to the newsletter please contact the Council office on 8569 0100 or via email at postbox@mid-murray.sa.gov.au

Economic Profile

The Regional Development Australia Murraylands and Riverlands Economic Profile presents economic information that enables you to describe the area’s role within the broader economy, explore options for economic development and promote the area’s strengths.

The National Economic Indicators Series is a set of key economic measures for every Local Government Area in Australia.  The series is drawn from National Economics (NIEIR) modelling and other relevant data sources and is updated annually.  The indicators provide a snapshot of each local economy at a point in time, showing how it contributes to the broader State economy and how it is performing in relation to other areas.

To access Census information collected by the Australian Bureau of Statistics for the Mid Murray Council area, including population, economic, education, health and community information head to the Australian Bureau of Statistics website.

Special Events

Tourism is a major Council focus and a Tourism Action Plan has been developed to support and implement initiatives.  Council supports the Mannum and Morgan Christmas Pageants and other community events including the Swan Reach Country Music Festival, Mannum Truck and Ute Show and True Grit at Cadell.

Tourist Information Service

Council provides a tourist information service from a restored historic building adjacent Arnold Park Mannum.  It is run by a paid manager, and operated by many volunteers.  Tourist numbers visiting the centre grow from year to year.

Mannum Dock Museum

Council is responsible for the operations of the Mannum Dock Museum Board.  This Board has under its care and control, the paddle steamer Marion, which is a State Heritage listed item.  A historic paddle boat dry dock forms part of the museum display.

An interactive display “All Steamed Up” involving in interactive exhibition that outlines the challenges and mechanical operations of a heritage steam vessel on the river has been launched.