Yass is a rural town located on the Yass River, a tributary of the Murrumbidgee. Yass Shire incorporates Binalong, Bookham, Bowning, Burrinjuck, Murrumbateman and Wee Jasper.
Although traditionally centred on wool, merino studs and agriculture, a number of wineries and vineyards have sprung up to the south of town.