Located in the southern central part of Australia, South Australia (SA) is the most important wine state of Australia.  It covers a total land area of 379,725 sq miles and is the fourth biggest of Australia’s six states and two territories. On its western side SA is bordered by Western Australia, while to its north it is bordered by the Northern Territory. While to its north-east border is Queensland, to the east is New South Wales, to its south-east is Victoria, and to its south are the Great Australian Bight and the Southern Ocean.

Climatically, the southern part of the state enjoys Mediterranean-type weather. The heavily populated southeastern area has a mild and healthful climate, while the north is arid to semiarid. SA has a population of more than 1.6 million people, with majority of its populace residing in the state capital, Adelaide. SA is also well-known for its festivals and fine red wine. The foundation of the state’s economy hinges on agriculture, manufacturing and mining industries which are discussed briefly below. It may be noted that SA also has a significantly growing financial sector as well.

Economy: Agriculture is confined almost exclusively to the Murray River area and consists of growing barley and grapes (for wine and brandy) and wheat crops, oats, and rye. Way back in 1830’s South Australia’s wine industry started and is now the most dominant wine-producing state in Australia.

The stronghold of SA economy is however, its manufacturing sector. It plays a significant role in its growth by generating 15% of the state’s GSP and also giving a great impetus to exports. The manufacturing segment comprises of automotive and component manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, defense technology and electronic systems. SA economy depends on exports more than any other state in Australia, with its export earnings running into billions of AUD$ every year and growing too.

South Australian food and beverages sector including agriculture, horticulture, aquaculture, fisheries and manufacturing; is another multi-billion dollar industry here and rapidly growing too. SA produces most of the wine and brandy consumed in entire Australia. Its economy also consists of the following major industries namely meat and meat preparations, wheat, wool and sheepskins, machinery, metal and metal manufactures, fish and crustaceans, road vehicles and parts, and petroleum products. In addition to these, there are other sectors such as education and defense technology which are expanding rapidly. Industry developed rapidly in SA during and after World War II, with the major products being industrial metals and transportation equipment. It also has Australia’s largest shipyards.

Valuable mineral deposits are mined in the state such as iron ore, salt and gypsum. In fact, the world’s largest known deposit of uranium is found in South Australia. Olympic Dam mine in SA contains 40% of the world’s known uranium reserves. In-fact this mine is also known for its largest deposits of copper and gold deposits, remaining world wide. Coal and natural gas too are exploited here. South Australia is also a major source of opals in the world.