Bunbury-Geographe

Bunbury-Geographe is the South West’s principal economic and service centre, combining a diverse industrial base with major health, education and government services that support communities across the region. Its strategic position, established infrastructure and strong connections to Perth position the sub-region as a key driver of regional growth and investment.

• Strategic city status – Home to Bunbury, the largest regional city in Western Australia and one of seven strategic regional cities identified by the WA Government to drive economic growth and opportunity.
• Major health and education assets – Key institutions including the South West Health Campus, South Regional TAFE and Edith Cowan University support workforce development, service delivery and regional liveability.
• Diverse industrial capability – Manufacturing, logistics, agriculture, energy and professional services underpin a broad and resilient economic base.
• Strategic freight and trade infrastructure – The Port of Bunbury and major road and rail connections support regional supply chains and industry growth.

Bunbury-Geographe is well positioned to support the next phase of economic growth in the South West. Strategic infrastructure, established industries, available industrial land and a skilled workforce provide a strong foundation for business expansion and investment attraction. Emerging opportunities linked to advanced manufacturing, renewable energy and industrial diversification are being supported by continued growth and investment, further strengthening the region’s role as a major economic centre.

• Advanced manufacturing and innovation – The Advanced Manufacturing and Technology Hub (AMTECH) is helping drive the transition towards higher-value manufacturing, innovation and workforce development, creating opportunities for local businesses to strengthen capability, improve productivity and participate in emerging industries.
• Collie’s economic diversification – Significant investment associated with Collie’s economic transition is creating opportunities across renewable energy, critical minerals, industrial manufacturing and new industry development, supporting long-term economic resilience and job creation.
• Population growth and urban development – Continued population growth across Bunbury and surrounding communities is driving demand for housing, commercial development, healthcare, education and community infrastructure, supporting business growth and attracting skilled workers and families to the region.
• Agribusiness value-adding and processing – Productive agricultural districts surrounding Harvey and Capel provide opportunities to expand food processing, manufacturing and value-added production, strengthening regional supply chains and increasing the economic value generated from local produce.

Bunbury-Geographe’s diverse landscapes contribute significantly to the sub-region’s liveability and visitor appeal. From coastal communities to rolling farmland, forests and hinterland experiences, the area offers a range of natural, recreational and cultural attractions. Bunbury’s role as a vibrant regional city together with the region’s growing tourism appeal helps attract residents, visitors, skilled workers and investment to the region.

• Vibrant regional city – Bunbury’s waterfront precincts, entertainment venues, sporting facilities and growing city centre support business activity, attract skilled workers and their families, and enhance the sub-region’s appeal as a place to live, work and invest.
• Geographe Bay coastline – Highly desirable coastal settlements contribute significantly to the area’s lifestyle appeal and visitor economy. The region’s beaches, waterways and coastal amenities encourage population growth and support tourism, hospitality and property investment.
• Food, wine and tourism experiences – The Ferguson Valley showcases the region’s growing reputation for premium food, wine and agritourism experiences. Its wineries, boutique producers, accommodation providers and recreation opportunities help attract visitors and create opportunities in value-added tourism and hospitality.
• Outdoor recreation – Collie’s transformation into a recognised adventure tourism destination is creating new opportunities for economic diversification and regional growth. Attractions including mountain biking, hiking, water-based recreation and nature experiences are drawing new visitors to the area and contributing to the town’s transition and future prosperity.