Shoalhaven Economic Development

If you are ready for a fresh start, relocating to the Shoalhaven makes good personal (quality of life) and economic sense.

Our Economic Development Office has a professional care program to make the establishment and/or expansion of your business in the Shoalhaven as easy as possible.

One-on-one guidance

Offering one-on-one guidance, we will give you an honest appraisal of your project and help you with Council applications and building business networks.

We are also in constant contact with other Government agencies that may be able to assist you.

Contact us

Shoalhaven Statistics

Investing in the Shoalhaven

As one of Australia’s fastest growing regional areas, economic growth is following high population growth to provide a rich array of investment opportunities – ranging from investing in existing businesses; commercial or residential property development; to investing in your own start up business.

The lower cost of doing business in the Shoalhaven compared to Sydney or other capital cities also offers a compelling reason to invest in the Shoalhaven.

A wide range of industries operate in the Shoalhaven with many international businesses operating from Nowra. Value adding manufacturing is strong, with food, chemicals, construction products, marine craft and other manufactured componentry. High technology companies provide aviation maintenance and systems support to the Royal Australian Navy.

The logistics sector is growing as are education, building & construction, retail and tourism. Nowra is expected to double its population to over 60,000 by 2030.

Commercial centres exist in Berry, Bomaderry, North Nowra, Culburra, Huskisson, Sussex Inlet, Milton, Ulladulla with South Nowra - hosting one of the largest available industrial estates south of Sydney.

We are committed to local jobs and servicing our growing businesses and have developed an innovative vocational education sector, with University, TAFE, Community College and private sector options. As a major regional centre with a maturing economy you won’t go far to find professional business services and good availability of skilled employees, including a constant inflow of talented sea/tree changers.

High speed broadband makes interstate, international operations or tele-commuting viable. For international or interstate distribution; rail and road connect to Ports Kembla and Botany. Sydney International Airport is less than 2 hours away.

Transport for NSW has released its 20 year plan for the Princes Highway. It identifies what needs to be done now and into the future to deliver a safe, reliable, efficient and connected network for all transport users. The highway would enable the movement of people and goods and supports sustainable growth of the local economy, employment opportunities and population. It would contribute to the character of the places it serves and is resilient to adapt to natural hazards and climate change, respond to changing land use and supports new technologies, new industries and economic trends.

Relocation information for residents & business

Contact us