Division of Gilmore

Geography and communities

Gilmore encompasses a mix of coastal settlements, coastal hinterland and protected natural areas. The electorate includes a number of towns and suburbs, from larger centres to smaller coastal villages. Notable population centres and localities within the division include:

• Nowra and Bomaderry
• Kiama and Gerringong
• Berry and Milton
• Ulladulla, Sussex Inlet and Culburra Beach
• Shellharbour, Shell Cove, Warilla and Minnamurra
• Kangaroo Valley and surrounding rural districts

Environment and land use

The division contains significant natural landscapes and parts of important conservation reserves, including sections of the Budawang and Morton National Parks. These parklands contribute to local biodiversity, outdoor recreation and tourism. Much of the coastal strip supports beaches, estuaries and marine activities, while the hinterland includes agricultural land, woodland and small-scale farming.

History and naming

Established for the 1984 federal election, the electorate was named in honour of Dame Mary Gilmore, whose literary and social contributions are widely recognised in Australia. Boundary changes over time have reflected population shifts on the South Coast and adjustments made by the electoral redistribution process.

Economy, community and representation

Local economies within Gilmore are diverse: tourism and hospitality linked to the coast, agriculture and grazing in the hinterland, and service industries in regional towns. The division is represented in the federal parliament and its voters elect one member to the House of Representatives. Electoral issues often reflect the mix of coastal development, environmental protection, transport and regional services valued by residents.

Further information

For official electoral details and current boundaries consult the Australian Electoral Commission and related resources on the Australian Electoral Division web pages. The Division of Gilmore remains an example of a seat that combines seaside communities with rural hinterland on the New South Wales South Coast.