South West, Western Australia facts for kids
The South West or South West corner refers to a special area in Western Australia. This name can mean different things depending on how it's used.
Most often, it describes the land just south of the big city of Perth and west of the Wheatbelt farming region. Its most specific meaning is the official government area called the South West region. However, sometimes it can refer to a much larger part of south-western Australia!
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What is the South West?
The term "South West" in Western Australia can describe several different areas. Each area has its own special purpose or definition. Understanding these differences helps us know exactly which part of the state people are talking about.
Official Government Region
The most common meaning of "South West" is the official government-defined South West region. This area is used for things like local government and planning. It's a specific part of the state with clear borders.
South West in Politics
The South West also has a role in politics. There is a `South West Region (Western Australia)` which is an important area for elections. People living here vote for their representatives in the Western Australian Legislative Council. This is like a special voting district.
Land and Nature Divisions
The "South West" name is also used to describe different natural and land areas:
- Southwest Australia: This is a very special place for nature. It's known as a "biodiversity hotspot." This means it has many unique plants and animals that aren't found anywhere else. It's important for both plants and freshwater.
- South West Drainage Division: This area is defined by how water flows across the land. It includes all the rivers and streams that drain into the ocean from this part of the state.
- South West Land Division: This is a region used for managing land. It helps with things like property ownership and land use planning. It's a way to organize how land is used and owned.
- South West Seismic Zone: This area is known for its earthquakes. A "seismic zone" is a place where the Earth's crust moves more often. Scientists study this zone to understand earthquakes in Western Australia.
