INDUSTRY INVESTMENT PROSPECTUS
Welcome
Welcome to a region of stunning natural beauty, from rolling plains to breathtaking mountains. Welcome to a region of diverse, spirited and hardworking people, where the word ‘community’ carries deeper meaning. Welcome to a region of endless opportunity.
Northern Grampians Shire is home to a rich community of business owners and operators across a broad spectrum of industries. Our region is a growing one, with more and more people seeking a meaningful lifestyle change in a place where their business dreams can grow.
In the Northern Grampians, you’ll find a council that is supportive and eager to stimulate investment in the region, one that is committed to seeing our towns prosper and grow. From small business to major investments, our welcoming and enthusiastic team will be here to help bring your ideas to life.
This document provides a detailed economic look at the region, outlines key competitive advantages and indicates some attractive investment opportunities currently in our region. Here you’ll find everything you need to truly discover the Northern Grampians.
Discover the myriad of opportunities the Northern Grampians has to offer by scanning the QR code!
Stawell | St Arnaud | Halls Gap Great Western major towns
Advantages Strategic
Not only is Northern Grampians Shire an enviable place to live, it offers a number of strategic advantages for business and investment.
Northern Grampians is situated on multiple strategically important transport routes, including the Sunraysia and Western Highways, Australia’s third-busiest interstate freight route. The region’s largest township, Stawell, has recently been upgraded with Tesla EV Superchargers, ensuring the township’s position as an important travel hub for future generations. Centrally located between Melbourne and Adelaide, Northern Grampians provides a strategic advantage for businesses looking to serve these major cities. Northern Grampians is also within close proximity of major regional centres, including Ballarat, Bendigo and Horsham.
The Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park is one of regional Victoria’s biggest tourism destinations, receiving 2 million overnight visitors in the 22-23 financial year.1 Visitors spent more than 3 million nights in the region, producing a total expenditure of $569 million2. Halls Gap is the primary town in the region servicing this tourism hotspot, supported by surrounding smaller towns in the Northern Grampians Shire.
Northern Grampians is making a name for itself as an innovation hub, with the recent opening of the Stawell Underground Physics Laboratory. Located 1km underground in the Stawell Gold Mine, the Stawell Underground Physics Laboratory is the only underground particle physics lab of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, and is conducting vital research into dark matter.
1. Source: Grampians Destination Management Plan, Grampians Tourism 2023
2. Source: Domestic Travel to the Grampians Report, Grampians Tourism 2023
The Western Highway is currently undergoing a $672 million upgrade, as part of the Victorian Government’s Big Build infrastructure scheme. The aim of the upgrade is to improve safety and freight efficiency along the major Melbourne – Adelaide trade route. The project will duplicate the highway between Ballarat and Stawell and replace dangerous intersections to move traffic more efficiently. The upgrade will make for a safer travel route, and reduce travel time between Stawell and Melbourne, bringing the Northern Grampians a step closer to the state capital.
ADELAIDE
Key INDUSTRIES
There are several key industries that drive economic activity in the Northern Grampians Shire. Each of these industries are currently experiencing a growth phase within the region and beyond, and as such present attractive opportunities for potential business investment.
Key investment opportunities
The Northern Grampians is an area rich with investment opportunities in a multitude of industries. The region’s stand-out strengths present some key opportunities that have been identified by the Economic Development Team. These include:
Growth Opportunities
Stawell Regional Airport
Residential housing developments
Transport and logistics
Intensive agriculture
Mineral sands and gold projects
Native bush food
Renewable energy
Waste and recycling services
Value-Adding Opportunities
Transport & Manufacturing
Agribusiness
Tourism Healthcare and Social Assistance
There are countless more opportunities for investment across our entire region!
To find out more about how the Northern Grampians can help you succeed, get in touch with our Economic Development Team.
Phone: (03) 5358 8700
Email: business@ngshire.vic.gov.au
“We believe we have the oldest Meunier and Pinot Noir in the world.”
- Nicole Thomson
Transport & Manufacturing
Strategically placed between Melbourne and Adelaide, the Northern Grampians is an obvious choice for Transport and Logistics businesses, as well as for manufacturers looking to supply western Victoria, southeastern SA and both state capitals. Together, the Manufacturing, Transport, Postal and Warehousing industries in the Northern Grampians produce an annual output of $425.169 million.
Several large-scale manufacturing businesses operate in the region, with a particular emphasis
on creating products associated with the Agriculture and Food Processing sub-sectors. Businesses such as Thomas Foods International, Action Steel, Krause Bricks, Rivalea Australia and Ridley Agriproducts are thriving in the region, taking advantage of the Northern Grampians’ strategic location.
With the Western Highway upgrade well underway, there is a significant opportunity for transport, freight and logistics businesses to consider investing in the Northern Grampians region.
Transport & Manufacturing at a Glance
$425.169m Total Industry Output
$94.477m Total Value-Added
Taking Advantage of the Western Highway Upgrade
$284.689m
Total Regional Exports 15.0% of Total Regional Employment Data Accessed November 2023. Source:
As the Western Highway upgrades make their way toward Stawell, several businesses are beginning to take advantage of this opportunity. Existing Transport and Logistics businesses in the region are anticipating an increase in demand, and are adding to their fleets as a result. Similarly, public transport providers in the region are gearing up to expand their services as travel times to Ararat, Ballarat and Melbourne are reduced.
For transport and freight providers looking to service Melbourne and Adelaide, or develop a network throughout western Victoria, the Northern Grampians – with the help of the Western Highway upgrade – is the obvious choice.
Agribusiness
Northern Grampians Shire is home to significant farmland, with various cropping and livestock operations to be found throughout the region. The largest sub-sectors of the agriculture industry in the Northern Grampians are Sheep Farming and Grain Growing, which together provide $108.106m in value added to the economy. Viticulture, poultry, cattle, pig and vegetable farming can also be found in the region, supported by a strong network of agriculture support services.
Northern Grampians Shire is intensive husbandry friendly, and can be seen as a strategic location for investment in this area. The region’s central
Agribusiness at a Glance
$259.192m Total Industry Output
location, transport links, minimal sensitive receptors and access to water via the proposed Southern Wimmera and Northeast Pyrenees Water Supply all make Northern Grampians Shire an attractive location for agribusiness.
Agriculture continues to drive the broader Australian economy, with growing demand for Australian food exports in China, Japan and the United States, amongst other major global markets. The Northern Grampians’ prime agricultural land, coupled with its location along a major trade route, in close proximity to Melbourne, make the region an extremely attractive site for agribusiness investment.
$111.915m Total Regional Exports $108.106m Total Value-Added 13.8% of Total Regional Employment
Data Accessed November 2023. Source: REMPLAN
“Merino genetics in this area has been a stronghold for years.”
- Trent Carter
Encouraging Next-Generation Farming Practices and Innovation
Council recognises the importance of innovation in the agricultural sector as the nation’s – and the world’s – needs continue to change. The growing role of agronomy in farming practices is something that is supported in the Northern Grampians region, helping to maximise yield and minimise negative externalities.
The beginning of the transition toward renewable energy is expected to shape future farming practices quite heavily.
Opportunities are beginning to arise for agribusiness operators that are working in the renewable energy space already, or that have strong plans to transition toward renewables. Council’s Renewable Energy Transition Action Plan seeks to manage the region’s transition toward renewable energy, while retaining a share of the proceeds for the local economy and insulating the local industry from exposure to price shock.
“We have a really good, dependable rainfall all through the year.”
- Zoe Crouch
“I compare it to the perfect loaf of bread. It’s so wholesome. It’s so nutritious.”
- Josephina McDonald
See Josephina’s full story or scan the QR code.
Tourism
With the Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park in our backyard, it’s no surprise that tourism is a major industry in the Northern Grampians Shire. The Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park and Halls Gap remain an iconic domestic tourism location for holidaymakers and adventurers, and is growing as an international attraction as well. The region boasts a number of natural wonders, including breathtaking waterways, lakes and waterfalls. Famous hiking trails, rock climbing routes and wildlife spotting opportunities serve everyone from young families to seasoned outdoorspeople, supported by various local food, wine, retail and activity businesses. The region is also rich with history and heritage, with fascinating First Nations, gold rush and sporting history stories to uncover here.
Tourism at a Glance
Data Accessed November 2023. Source: REMPLAN $569m Generated from Tourism 3 million Nights Stayed $189 Average Spend per Day
Northern Grampians Shire also attracts a number of tourists to its two largest towns, Stawell and St Arnaud. The famous Stawell Gift is a major drawcard, a significant date on the Australian athletics calendar. The oldest and richest running race in the nation, the Stawell Gift is held annually over the Easter long weekend. First run in 1878, it is considered one of the most prestigious running races in the nation. The threeday carnival provides a major boon to the local economy, and is a source of major pride within the region.
The village of Great Western also attracts a number of tourists, with the area renowned for its wine production. Several notable wineries, including Seppelt, Best Wines and Grampians Estate can be found here.
1.1 million Overnight Visitors
3 Nights Average Stay 7.6% of Total Regional Employment
Promoting the Region Through Major Events
Council’s newly released Northern Grampians Event Strategy 2023-33 outlines a commitment to a “leverage and nurture” approach to the region’s events. This indicates council’s willingness to grow its existing major events, including the Stawell Gift and the Grampians Grape Escape, through funding, sponsorship and additional support measures.
The strategy also outlines the importance of nurturing the region’s nascent events, in order to grow the Northern Grampians’ next major event. Council has indicated an increased focus on events that showcase the region’s strengths and points of difference compared to other regions.
“Every winery from the region is there. It’s like one big Cellar Door.”
- Kate Kirkpatrick
See Kate’s full story or scan the QR code.
“The mine is very much part of the community.”
- Cameron Hope
Resources
The Northern Grampians region has a rich history in the resources sector, thanks to Stawell’s gold mining heritage, which continues on to this day. The Stawell Gold Mine is a major employer in the region, and the mining industry is responsible for the largest segment of the local economy, producing an output of $428.239 million.
Resources at a Glance
$459.293m
Total Industry Output
In addition, the Northern Grampians is situated on some of the most optimal land for renewable energy production. The Grampians region has the strongest wind resource in Victoria, with 2,856MW of wind energy developments. The State Government’s Western Renewables Link project aims to connect this energy source to Victoria atlarge, cementing the region as a key Renewable Energy Zone.
$146.332m
Total Value-Added
$417.460m
Total Regional Exports 5.9% of Total Regional Employment Data Accessed November 2023. Source: REMPLAN
Powering the Future at Bulgana Green Power Hub
The Bulgana Green Power Hub (BGPH) is located 11km northeast of Stawell. The site comprises 204MW of wind energy generation, and 20MW of lithium-ion battery storage, making the BGPH one of the first and largest grid-scale batteries in the world. At its peak, the BGPH will generate more than 750,000 MWh of clean, renewable energy each year, the equivalent of taking 230,000 cars off the road or planting 1.2 million trees.
The Bulgana Green Power Hub is just the beginning of the Northern Grampians’ transition to renewable energy, with plenty of opportunities for investment in the space to come.
As part of the BGPH’s commitment to the local community, the Bulgana Wind Farm Community Fund was established in 2018. This fund provides $120,000 p.a. to support community groups for projects that benefit and strengthen the Northern Grampians Shire.
“There’s a big demand for trades here.”
- Luke Hanley
Healthcare & Social Assistance
The Healthcare and Social Assistance industry is, by far, the Northern Grampians’ largest employer, accounting for 19.1% of the region’s jobs. As our population grows, particularly in Stawell and St Arnaud, so too does the need for first-class healthcare and community services. The median age of people living in the Northern Grampians is 49, with 35.1% of the population over the age of 60. With a median age considerably higher than the state average (38), there is a real, ongoing need for healthcare and community services in the region.
The region’s two hospitals, Grampians Health Stawell and East Wimmera Health Service (St Arnaud), provide first-class emergency services, with 24-hour urgent care.
Some of the additional services available in the region include radiology, obstetrics, dental care and pathology.
Attracting Healthcare Professionals
Both council and the Victorian Government have recognised the importance of attracting healthcare professionals to the Northern Grampians. There are several programs in place that are designed to incentivise health professionals to relocate, from comprehensive employee benefits packages to government programs to cover relocation costs.
Healthcare & Social Assistance at a Glance
$140.024m
Total Industry Output
$83.284m
Total Regional Exports $96.267m
Data Accessed November 2023. Source: REMPLAN
Total Value-Added 19.1% of Total Regional Employment
A Lifestyle Like No Other
Living in the Northern Grampians region offers a lifestyle that is hard to find anywhere else. A thriving business environment, away from the drain that major cities can bring.
Housing Affordability
With a median house price nearly a third of what you’ll find in Metropolitan Melbourne, you can find your dream home without breaking the bank. You’ve got more choice here, too. Whether it’s modern townhouses, beautiful old homes or sprawling acreage, you’ll find what you’re looking for in the Northern Grampians.
Data Accessed November 2023.
Source: REMPLAN and Real Estate Institute of Victoria
$331,500 Northern Grampians
Median House Price
$934,000 Metropolitan Melbourne Median House Price
“It’s a special spot. We’re lucky.”
- Terry Monaghan
A Natural Lifestyle
With the magnificent Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park on your doorstep, you can fill your days with adventure, experiencing the stunning natural beauty of the area. Breathe in fresh mountain air, wander hiking trails and take in the region’s famous wildflowers and native fauna.
“Living in this part of the world, it’s a nature-based area.”
- Mark Treweek
“For me, food is sharing. It’s love.”
- Giovanna Angelats-Monaghan
Outstanding Food & Wine
The Northern Grampians Shire straddles two incredible wine regions; the Grampians and the Pyrenees. Some of the oldest vines in the world can be found here, producing some truly stunning, award-winning wines. You can expect distinctive, cool climate wines here, with Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon just a couple of the flagship varieties to be found.
The region is also home to incredible restaurants and cafes, run by talented chefs inspired by the fresh produce that surrounds them living in the region!
Supportive Community
Small town living means a strong sense of community, and that’s exactly what you’ll find in the Northern Grampians. No matter where you are in the Northern Grampians, you’ll find friendly, supportive people who are passionate about seeing their region grow and thrive. Whether you’re starting a new business, running onto the sporting field or just looking to find a place to settle down, you’ll receive the full support of the Northern Grampians community.
“Our daughters flourished here. It’s just a nice place to live.”
- Wendy Hopwood
“It provides all the necessary life lessons for young people.”
- Murray Hart
State-Of-The-Art Facilities
When moving to regional Victoria, you don’t have to leave behind high-quality hospitals, schools, facilities and services. Northern Grampians Shire is home to two first-class hospitals, two secondary schools and a number of exceptional primary schools, both in-town and rural. Our shire is also home to a number of arts and cultural spaces, including museums, art galleries and indigenous cultural centres.
Starting Your Business in the Northern Grampians
For those looking to make the leap into business ownership, there’s no better place to find your footing.
You’ll find a thriving business community in the Northern Grampians, one that is supportive and active in boosting the local economy. A rising tide lifts all boats, and that’s exactly how the Northern Grampians business community operates.
You’ll find an incredibly supportive local government here, ready to help you with your business needs. Northern Grampians Shire Council has a dedicated Economic Development Team, that provides a Permit Concierge service for operators looking to register a new business and find out what council regulations apply.
The friendly and knowledgeable team are enthusiastic about growing the shire’s business investment, dedicated to getting you from an idea to reality as smoothly and efficiently as possible.
In addition, council delivers the Business Growth Program, aimed at improving the landscape for local businesses, including a Small Business Mentoring Service and the recently-run Shopfront Improvement Program.
“I fell in love with the place... the rest is history.”
- Adrienne Preston
See Adrienne’s full story or scan the QR code.
Find Out more
There’s never been a better time to invest in the Northern Grampians region. Tourism is hitting new peaks, and our major industries are as strong as ever, continuing to show steady growth. The main streets of Stawell and St Arnaud are lined with success stories of locals and new faces alike that have been able to create thriving businesses here, thanks to our strong sense of community and supportive and receptive council.
Come and see what life is like here. We’re confident that a stroll through our bustling towns, a tour of our thriving farmland or a wander through the picturesque Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park will have you convinced that the Northern Grampians is the place to be.
If you’re considering an investment in the Northern Grampians region and need more information, or if you have any questions, please contact Northern Grampians Shire Council’s Economic Development Team.
Phone: (03) 5358 8700
Email: business@ngshire.vic.gov.au
