Economic research

Kempsey Shire has a diverse economic base. The Macleay Valley has a stable, multi-skilled workforce that supports a range of industries, including:

  • manufacturing
  • construction
  • education
  • healthcare
  • agribusiness
  • tourism.

Skills in trades and professional services also support our growing area.

The greatest number of businesses in Kempsey Shire are in agriculture, comprising 27% of total registered businesses. In 2015-16, the total value of local agricultural output was $36 million. 

Tourism and hospitality are key industries. In 2017-18, visitors spent $147 million on hospitality and tourism in the Macleay Valley Coast, and the region welcomed 541,300 visitors in 2018. 

Economic, population and social trends

Through a partnership between Kempsey Shire Council and .id, the population experts, you can now access free information on population trends, economic statistics, community profiles and maps. 

Whether you’re a community group, business owner or interested resident, you can see how the Macleay Valley has changed and what is forecast in the next 20 years. 

Economy.id

Our economic profile combines 11 different datasets to outline the Macleay Valley’s workforce characteristics, industry contributions, the role of tourism and trends in the local economy.

Forecast.id

Our population forecasts help you decide when and where to allocate resources and invest as the population changes. Forecast.id outlines what is driving population change in specific communities and forecasts how the population, age structure and household types will change between now and 2036.

Profile.id

Our community profile is based on Census and Australian Bureau of Statistics data. It shows the characteristics of communities, how they are changing and how they compare to other areas.

Atlas.id

Our social atlas is a suite of online thematic maps, showing the distribution of target populations based on Census data.

How Council can help

Our Economic Development and Tourism team can provide economic and demographic information and advice to help you make informed business and investment decisions. Contact us on 02 6566 3200 or email business@kempsey.nsw.gov.au.

More information

Horizon 2030: Macleay Valley Economic Development and Tourism Strategy(PDF, 10MB)

Macleay Valley Coast Destination Management Plan 2019-2029(PDF, 11MB)

Regional Development Australia – Mid North Coast provides economic and demographic information for the region.

RDA 2023 Snapshot of Kempsey (PDF, 209KB)

Learn more about regional New South Wales, the largest, most diverse regional economy in Australia.

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