Gidgegannup Local Area

The Gidgegannup local area consists of rural and rural-residential land occupying most of the northern and eastern areas of the City of Swan. The name comes from an Aboriginal word meaning "place where spears are made". The area includes the localities of Gidgegannup, Red Hill and the Avon Valley National Park.

Settlement of the area dates from the 1850s when the land was used mainly for farming and included horse studs, cattle grazing and fruit growing. More recently, farming activities in the area include emus, alpacas, aquaculture, pecans, olives and goat cheese.

Population growth was minimal until the 1990s but steady growth has seen the population grow to almost 3,000 and the number of dwellings increase to more than 1,000. Population and housing growth is expected to continue over the next 20 years with forecasts indicating more than 6,500 persons and almost 2,500 dwellings by 2036.

At the time of the 2016 Census, the population of the Gidgegannup local area was 2,854 persons with 25% aged less than 20 years, 32% aged between 35 and 54 years and 14% aged 65 to 85 or more. Almost 80% of all households in the Gidgegannup local area are family households and 45% of these are households with children. More than 85% of homes were owned outright or were being purchased, and approximately 7% of homes were privately rented. Less than 20% of residents were born overseas, 4% being from a non-english speaking background. Other than English, German is the most common language spoken at home. 

Development of the Gidgegannup Local Area Plan (LAP) has involved local community members working together with the City to identify specific issues affecting their community. Community members and stakeholders were invited to contribute to the Gidgegannup LAP through a series of community workshops, surveys and online consultations. All submissions received were considered in the formulation of strategies and actions to implement Gidgegannup’s vision and ensure that local needs and aspirations are met. This LAP is therefore an important document for the City to plan for infrastructure and services, and manage change at the local level.

Major features and attractions of the area include:

• Avon Valley National Park
• John Forrest National Park
• Darling Range Regional Park
• Joshua Mews Bushland
• Susannah Brook Reserve
• Gidgegannup Showgrounds
• Noble Falls
• Primary school