Building on the Great Southern's strengths

The Great Southern is one of Western Australia’s most distinctive regional economies. 

With established strengths in agriculture, manufacturing, premium food and wine, and tourism, and a growing pipeline of opportunities in clean energy, construction and trade, this is a region with a strong economic base, a clear sense of identity and the drive to respond to the opportunities ahead.

The Great Southern generates a gross regional product of around $5.8 billion, supports more than 28,000 jobs and is home to more than 7,400 businesses. Agriculture, forestry and fishing remain a cornerstone of the regional economy, with annual industry output of around $2.6 billion. Manufacturing and construction are also major contributors, generating about $1.6 billion and $1.5 billion respectively. 

As Minister for the Great Southern, I have had the privilege of seeing firsthand the enterprise, resilience and innovation behind these numbers, and the confidence that defines this region.  

Throughout the Great Southern, business and industry is adapting, diversifying and investing in new ways to grow. From Harvest Road's sustainable aquaculture operations in Albany, to innovative manufacturers in Gnowangerup and world-class wine producers pursuing new markets and sustainable production methods throughout the region, the Great Southern is demonstrating how regional capability can translate into commercial opportunity.

Culture and community are celebrated in the Great Southern and play an important role in the region’s economy. With overnight visitors to the region spending over $600 million in 2025, major events continue to draw visitors, stimulate local spending and strengthen the Great Southern's profile as a place to invest, work and do business. 

Take Albany 2026. Led by the City of Albany and developed in collaboration with government, community and Aboriginal partners, the year-long program is positioning Albany and the Great Southern on the global stage while bringing people together to celebrate the region’s deep cultural roots and diverse perspectives. As the program continues, it is strengthening community pride, showcasing the region to new audiences and creating opportunities for tourism, hospitality and local enterprise.

With these visits to the Great Southern, more and more people are discovering this remarkable corner of our State. 

Strong population growth is contributing to demand for housing, services, infrastructure and local jobs, creating opportunities and reinforcing the importance of strategic investment to support the region's long-term prosperity.

The businesses and industries featured throughout this publication demonstrate how local enterprise, investment and innovation are helping to meet growing demand and driving economic growth across the region.

Together, their stories reflect a Great Southern that is building on established strengths, embracing new opportunities and strengthening its position as one of regional Western Australia's most dynamic economies.

Hon Reece Whitby MLA
Minister for Police; Emergency Services; Great Southern