Level 3 Mortlock Wing State Library of South Australia North Terrace Adelaide SA 5000

Our purpose

Public Awareness

Advance public awareness of, and interest in, geography and related disciplines, including environmental issues

Geographical Science

Encourage research and scholarship in geography

Recognition

Recognise and reward achievements in geography

Commemoration

Commemorate past achievements of significance to geography

The Society is custodian of an extensive library of antique, rare and current books and maps. Amongst its various activities the Society organises lectures on topical issues, publishes a scholarly journal, recognises contributions to geography through an active awards program, and convenes an active field activities program.

The RGSSA welcomes professional geographers, geography graduates, and all those with an enthusiasm for geography, travel and exploration to join.

Quick Links

Sharing our unique historical perspective to a digital age; through the pages of the RGSSA's rare collection of books, maps, photographs, artworks and historical relics

RGSSA Library


The RGSSA Library contains over 25,000 volumes and is one of the most significant collections of rare geographical books and manuscripts in Australia.

Awards & Research


The Society supports a number of awards and prizes to promote geographical education and research, and to recognise members’ efforts. 

Upcoming Lectures & Events

Ortelius map of the world

11 October 2023 | 12:00 pm

Lunchtime Meeting

The search for how the earth works: a scientific detective story

Back in the 16th century the cartographer Abraham Ortelius noted that the coastlines on either side of the Atlantic Ocean bore a remarkable resemblance to each other. This observation was the very first clue in an amazing scientific detective story about how the earth works and why the oceans and continents are where they are.

Kim Mahood 2022

19 October 2023 | 5:30 pm

Monthly Lecture

Wandering with Intent

Kim will discuss the cross-cultural collaborative mapping process she has developed with Aboriginal people and organisations over the past 20 years, and how it both fuels and feeds off her writing and art practices.

Umpherston Sinkhole

6 November 2023 | 8:00 am

Trips & Tours

An Exploration of SE South Australia and SW Victoria, 6-11 November

This tour led by the RGSSA newly appointed Head of Travel and longtime lecture presenter, Joc Schmiechen will take you on an exploratory journey into some of landscapes, cultural, settlement and pre-history of Southeastern Australia. 

Grange 2018 Charles Sturt Museum

23 November 2023 | 10:30 am

Rare Books Group

Field Trip to Charles Sturt Museum, Grange

The final session for 2023 is a field trip to The Grange, the name of Captain Charles Sturt’s home from 1840-1853, including a tour and morning tea.