The 34,472 km2 province is dominated by mountains, lowland river deltas, and grassland flood plains.

In Gulf Province, the Kikori, Turama, Purari, and Vailala rivers meet the Papuan Gulf.

[2] The province was governed by a decentralised provincial administration, headed by a Premier, from 1978 to 1995.

Following reforms taking effect that year, the national government reassumed some powers, and the role of Premier was replaced by a position of Governor, to be held by the winner of the province-wide seat in the National Parliament of Papua New Guinea.

[3][4] The province and each district is represented by a Member of the National Parliament.