The Kangaroo Island ESF Region is comprised of the Local Government Area (LGA) of Kangaroo Island. The major urban centre in Kangaroo Island is Kingscote.

The Kangaroo Island area has a population profile with above average proportions of school-aged children and people aged between 45 and 64 years. The region has high proportions of couples without children. There have been fluctuating population levels over recent years, and the population is projected to continue to grow at a rate initially higher than the State average.

Key labour force indicators for Kangaroo Island show above average labour force participation rates, and low levels of unemployment. Employment on the island is dominated by Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing, and there is significant employment in both Retail Trade and in Accommodation, Cafes & Restaurants, reflecting the island’s reputation as a tourist destination.

The general level of education and qualifications in the Kangaroo Island region is below the State average, with below average levels of both school achievement and post-school qualifications. This may be a reflection of the relatively low proportions of younger adults in the region.

With relatively low unemployment rates and high workforce participation, the population of Kangaroo Island is relatively secure in economic terms, although the region records below average income levels. There are below average levels of income support recipients on Kangaroo Island.

QUICKLOOK TABLES: KANGAROO ISLAND REGION

Kangaroo Island Employment and Skills Formation Region

Full Regional Profile

2009 Kangaroo Island Regional Profile [DOC 819KB]

Employment and Skills Formation Strategic Plan

ESF Strategic Plan 2009 to 2012 [DOC 100KB]