Southern Forests

The Southern Forests & Valleys combines a highly productive agricultural sector with significant natural assets that underpin tourism, forestry and emerging industries. The region’s diverse economic base supports local employment, regional exports and value-adding opportunities across a range of industries.

• Food bowl of the South West – Fertile soils, reliable rainfall and a favourable climate support a diverse range of horticultural, agricultural and livestock enterprises, making the region one of Western Australia’s most productive food-growing areas.
• Premium food and beverage production – The region has built a strong reputation for premium produce including truffles, stone fruit, apples, avocados, wine and specialty food products, supporting local businesses, exports and value-added manufacturing opportunities.
• Forestry and timber heritage – The region’s long-standing forestry sector continues to diversify, building on the character and identity of many local communities.
• Nature-based tourism economy – National parks, forests, trails and outdoor recreation experiences attract visitors throughout the year, supporting accommodation providers, hospitality businesses and tourism operators across the sub-region.

Building on its strengths in agriculture, tourism and natural resources, the Southern Forests & Valleys is well positioned to support new investment. Opportunities continue to emerge through value-adding, agritourism, premium food production and the growing visitor economy, while the region’s natural assets and lifestyle appeal help attract new residents, businesses and skilled workers.

• Agribusiness value-adding and processing – Opportunities exist to expand food processing, packaging and premium branded products, enabling producers to capture greater value from the region’s agricultural output.
• Agritourism and premium visitor experiences – Strong demand for authentic regional experiences is creating opportunities for farm stays, food and wine tourism, culinary experiences and nature-based accommodation.
• Critical minerals and associated industries – The Greenbushes area is home to globally significant lithium resources, supporting opportunities for investment, supply chain development and new economic activity linked to the energy transition.
• Population attraction and regional liveability – The region’s natural beauty, strong communities and lifestyle offering continue to attract new residents, supporting local businesses, services and workforce growth.

The Southern Forests & Valleys is defined by landscapes found nowhere else on earth. Home to some of Western Australia’s most distinctive natural and cultural attractions, these assets not only draw visitors, but also contribute to regional identity, liveability and economic activity through tourism, events and recreation.

• Karri and tingle forests – Ancient forests and towering hardwoods provide a globally significant natural landscape that attracts visitors, supports nature-based tourism and underpins the region’s distinctive identity.
• Bibbulmun Track and Munda Biddi Trail – Walking, mountain biking, camping and eco-tourism experiences attract visitors throughout the year, supporting regional businesses and encouraging longer visitor stays.
• Premium food, wine and truffle experiences – World-renowned produce and regional food experiences contribute to the region’s reputation as a premium destination, encouraging visitation and supporting local producers.
• Festivals, events and creative communities – Long-running events such as the Nannup Music Festival, Blues at Bridgetown and Boyup Brook Country Muster generate visitation, support local businesses and strengthen community vibrancy, while initiatives such as the Blackwood Valley Art Trail showcase the region’s creative talent.