Region Overview

Townsville LGA

“Australia's most liveable green advanced manufacturing city”

Townsville's economic landscape is as diverse as its natural beauty, with a robust array of industries driving its growth and prosperity. At the heart of its economic engine lies the thriving resources sector, anchored by a bustling port that serves as a vital gateway for the export of minerals, agricultural products, and commodities. The city's strategic location also fuels a booming logistics and transportation industry, facilitating trade and commerce across the region.

Additionally, Townsville is a hub for education and research, with world-class institutions and research centers fostering innovation and development in fields ranging from tropical medicine to renewable energy. The city's healthcare sector thrives on its reputation as a regional center for medical services, while tourism continues to flourish, drawing visitors to its pristine beaches, vibrant cultural scene, and diverse array of outdoor adventures.

The city's strategic location also supports the region's Defence industry, Townsville has emerged as the new Army capital and is home to the heavy armoured combat brigade.

Moreover, Townsville's advanced manufacturing sector continues to evolve, leveraging advanced technologies and renewable energy to produce the key minerals for decarbonisation including vanadium and lithium. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, the city is poised to continue its trajectory of growth and prosperity across its varied industries, ensuring a bright future for generations to come.

Population: 201,433

GRP: $17.4B

Total employment: 101,193

Burdekin

The Burdekin region thrives as an agricultural powerhouse, earning its reputation as the "Sugar Capital of Australia." Vast swathes of sugarcane fields stretch across the landscape, sustained by the rich soils and supported by the Burdekin River. This cornerstone industry not only fuels the local economy but also shapes the region's identity, with sugar mills standing as iconic landmarks.

The region's irrigation infrastructure, including the Burdekin Dam, supports year-round farming, ensuring a steady supply of fresh produce to markets far and wide.

Moreover, the Burdekin's strategic location along Queensland's coastline positions it as a key player in the fishing and seafood industry. With pristine coastal waters teeming with an abundance of marine life, fishing fleets bring in a diverse catch, supplying local markets and beyond with the freshest seafood delicacies.

As the Burdekin region continues to evolve, its industries remain deeply rooted in the land, honouring tradition while embracing innovation to sustainably meet the demands of a changing world.

Population: 17,020

GRP: $1.5B

Total employment: 8,721

Charters Towers

Charters Towers stands as a beacon of historical significance and modern vitality. With a heritage steeped in the gold rush era, the town's mining industry continues to play a pivotal role in its economy. The region's abundant mineral resources continue to drive exploration and extraction efforts that fuel the local economy and support employment opportunities.

Beyond mining, Charters Towers boasts a diverse agricultural landscape, with vast grazing lands and fertile soils supporting a thriving livestock industry. Cattle stations dot the countryside, contributing to the region's reputation as a prime beef-producing area.

Moreover, the town's strategic location along major transportation routes has fostered a growing logistics and transportation sector, supporting the movement of goods and services throughout the region.

As Charters Towers looks toward the future, its industries remain anchored in a rich tapestry of history and innovation, ensuring continued growth and prosperity for generations to come.

Population: 12,013

GRP: $1.2B

Total employment: 5,704

Hinchinbrook

Hinchinbrook offers a mix of natural beauty and economic opportunity. The region thrives on marine industries like fishing and aquaculture, while agriculture-particularly sugar cane-is also vital.

In addition to its traditional industries, Hinchinbrook embraces innovation, with emerging sectors such as eco-tourism and renewable energy gaining traction. The region's breathtaking natural landscapes, including the iconic Hinchinbrook Island National Park, draw visitors seeking immersive experiences in nature.

As Hinchinbrook charts its course forward, its industries continue to evolve, guided by a commitment to sustainability and responsible stewardship of its natural resources.

Population: 11,118

GRP: $813M

Total employment: 5,268

Palm Island 

Palm Island/Bwgcolman, also known as Great Palm Island, is the largest of 12 tropical Islands in the Palm Island Group.

The group of islands is less than 20 kilometres from the nearest point on the mainland (Lucinda) and is 65 kilometres north of Townsville over sea. Palm Island is the largest discrete Indigenous community in Australia with an estimated 2,214 people residing on the Island. There is high mobility between Palm Island and the mainland, with the population increasing to over 5,000 people during festivals and events. Transport to the island is covered through regular plane and ferry services from the nearby mainland. The Island is situated in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, with the fringe reefs providing excellent fishing and diving opportunities and are used by locals for hunting and gathering and other cultural purposes.

Population: 2,214

GRP: $72.0M

Total employment: 137

Sources

Population: ABS. Regional Population, 2022-23

GRP: REMPLAN. Release 2, 2023

Employment: Jobs and Skills Australia. Small Area Labour Markets. June 2024