OSG Place Names FAQs

Place Names FAQs

• Surveyor-General: The Surveyor-General typically assumes the responsibility of overseeing the place naming process in South Australia. This includes the naming and renaming of various geographical features, such as towns, suburbs, streets, rivers, mountains, parks, and landmarks. The Office of the Surveyor-General (Geographical Names Unit), is responsible for processing and managing proposals for these types of names.
• Local Councils: Local government authorities, or councils, are responsible for naming local government areas, wards, and features such as reserves and public roads under their care, control, and maintenance. This includes naming or renaming streets, and other features within their jurisdictions. 
• Electoral Commission: The Electoral Commission is responsible for the naming of electoral districts in South Australia. This ensures that electoral boundaries are accurately identified and designated for political representation.
• Commissioner for Highways: The Commissioner for Highways is tasked with assigning names to state-maintained roads and infrastructure, including main arterial roads, highways, bridges, tunnels, overpasses, and other transportation-related features. The Surveyor-General, in accordance with the Geographical Names Act 1991, is responsible for this task.
• Commissioner of Railways: The Commissioner of Railways is responsible for assigning names to rail infrastructure, including railway lines, stations, and related features. Like state-maintained roads, the Surveyor-General undertakes this task in accordance with the Geographical Names Act 1991.

• Proposed Name: Clearly state the name you are proposing or the name you wish to change. Make sure the name is spelled correctly and is easy to understand.
• Type of Geographical Feature: Specify the type of geographical feature or location to which the name applies. Is it a town, suburb, street, river, mountain, park, or another type of feature?
• Rationale: Provide a detailed explanation of why you are proposing this name or requesting a change. Explain the significance of the name and why it is appropriate for the feature or location. Include any historical, cultural, or geographical reasons for the choice.
• Supporting Documentation: Include any relevant supporting documents that strengthen your proposal. This may include historical records, maps, photographs, or references to authoritative sources that back up your proposal.
• Historical Context: If the name has historical significance, provide background information about its historical use and relevance to the area. Explain any historical events, figures, or cultural connections associated with the proposed name.
• Cultural Relevance: If the proposed name has cultural significance, explain its cultural relevance and connection to the indigenous or local community. Include information about any traditions, stories, or cultural meanings associated with the name.
• Consultation: If you have consulted with relevant stakeholders, such as indigenous groups or local communities, include documentation of these consultations and any written support or endorsements you have received. Ensure that indigenous naming proposals have the written support of the relevant traditional owners.
• Pronunciation and Meaning: Provide details about the pronunciation of the proposed name, especially if it includes non-standard characters or sounds. Explain the meaning of the name and its significance.
• Background Story: If there is an interesting or compelling background story related to the proposed name, share it to provide context and depth to your proposal.
• Contact Information: Include your contact information in case the Geographical Names Unit needs to reach you for further clarification or communication regarding your proposal.

• Initial Review: The Office of the Surveyor-General responsible for geographical names will conduct an initial review of your proposal. This review will assess whether your proposal complies with naming rules, guidelines, and principles, as well as whether it aligns with accuracy, cultural sensitivity, and relevance criteria.
• Consultation with Local Councils: The Geographical Names Unit may send written notices detailing the proposal to each local council with potential interest in the naming or renaming decision. Councils often have a say in the process, especially when it involves places within their jurisdictions. They will be invited to make written submissions to the Minister within a specified timeframe, typically one month from receiving the notice.
• Public Notification: A public notice will be published on the SA website and Government Gazette, inviting individuals from the public to submit written feedback or objections to the Minister within a specified timeframe. This public notification allows for transparency and ensures that community members have the opportunity to provide input on the proposed name or name change. The public feedback period is typically one month from the date of publication.
• Review and Decision: The Office of the Surveyor-General will consider all submitted proposals, including those from local councils and public feedback. They will evaluate the proposal based on established criteria, including cultural sensitivity, historical significance, and community input. After this comprehensive review, a decision will be made regarding the proposed name or name change.
• Notification of Outcome: Once a decision is reached, the Office of the Surveyor-General will notify you and all relevant stakeholders, including council and individuals who provided feedback, of the outcome. The notification will indicate whether the proposal has been approved, rejected, or requires modifications. If approved, the authority will take the necessary steps to officially assign the name to the geographical place.

• Your Name and Address: Include your full name and current address. This information is necessary for your objection to be considered valid.
• Reasoning: Clearly state your reasons for objecting to the proposal. Be specific and provide evidence or examples to support your objections. Make sure your objections are related to the proposal's content and potential impact.
• Alternative Suggestions: If you have alternative solutions or suggestions that could address the concerns you've raised, include them in your feedback.
• General Comments: You can also provide any additional general comments or observations related to the proposal. These comments may help clarify your objections or provide context.

• Email Address: Send your feedback to DTI.PlaceNames@sa.gov.au
• Subject Line: Clearly mention the subject of your email
• Attachments: If you have any supporting documents or evidence, attach them to your email. Make sure they are relevant to your objections.