Live in the Northern Rivers
From coastal living to lush hinterland, the Northern Rivers offers a scenic backdrop to everyday life. With a population of 310,000+ residents and 200,000+ jobs, the region is home to thriving construction, health and hospitality industries. Life doesn’t get much better than kayaking the rivers, competing in triathlons, cycling the winding roads and having music and arts festivals on your doorstep. Get to know the communities that await you in the Northern Rivers.
312k Population
26.2°C Annual max temp.
212 km Coastline
$500 pw Median rent
New South Wales
Explore Northern Rivers
Northern Rivers is defined by the mighty river system. The Clarence River starts in the west and flows south to the floodplains of Yamba. The Wilsons River and Richmond Rivers flow through the middle of the region converging in Coraki and out to Ballina headlands. The Tweed River in the north of the region flows through the ancient volcanic shield of Wollumbin (Mt Warning) out to the Pacific Ocean. Use our interactive map to see how the local government areas (LGAs) fit together in our region.
Click/tap on the areas of the map
Byron Shire
Always a hot tourist destination, Byron is more than just the Bay or even the rolling waves of the The Pass. With towns that promote a laid back but luxurious lifestyle, it has become a sea and tree change favourite of city escapees.
Learn MoreClarence Valley
A rural lifestyle side by side with coastal magnificence. Discover iconic jacaranda trees and winding river kayaking. Affordable living in paradise coupled with 15% of the region’s jobs.
Learn MoreKyogle
Enjoy the village life and a peaceful existence at the gateway to the rainforests. Kyogle offers agricultural opportunities for the entrepreneurial farmer in you as well as access to a mountain biking forest and scenic drives.
Learn MoreTweed Shire
Sitting on the NSW-QLD border, the Tweed is a mix of urban life and lush valley living. Winding waterways lead from National Parks out to pristine beaches.
Learn MoreBallina Shire
With a gateway airport bringing in domestic tourists, Ballina is often the front door to the Northern Rivers for many tourists. The shire takes in the Alstonville plateau down to the famous surf breaks of Lennox Head.
Learn MoreLismore City
Home to a major base hospital and a multi campus university, Lismore is a vibrant centre for cultural events. A wonderous lantern parade, the LisAmoré friendship festival and Tropical Fruits in the new year to name a few.
Learn MoreRichmond Valley
Fertile farmland and picturesque valleys feature in this centre for primary industry. But don’t forget the fishing haven on the coast in Evans Head. Explore this hidden region in the middle of the Northern Rivers.
Learn More
Featured Business Discover the local suppliers and businesses that are driving the Northern Rivers economy
Cleopatra Cleaning & Restoration
Banora Point, NSW
Established in 2009, Cleopatra Cleaning is a 100% Australian owned small business based in the Northern Rivers, servicing Tweed Heads through to Lismore and Ballina. At Cleopatra we specialise in all things cleaning from commercial cleaning services, mould and water damage remediation, construction cleaning through to carpet/tile and pressure cleaning. Our clients range from residential through to local councils, Government housing, NSW schools, insurance, builders and commercial. Our journey began with a vision to provide an industry leading service that delivers premiumoutcomes through our...
What's on in the Northern Rivers
Discover the wide and eclectic range of major and local events across the region.
Work in the Northern Rivers
For many, living in the far north coast of New South Wales is a dream and often we are asked “What is it like to work in the Northern Rivers?”. With a growing economy, improved roads and access to metropolitan areas, and a growing population that need goods and services – there’s never been a better time to find work in the Northern Rivers. Check out the statistics for yourself and learn more about working in our beautiful region.s
3.1% rate Unemployment
30,000+ local Businesses
223,000+ Jobs annually
$42,630 Median annual income
Business events in the Northern Rivers
Connect with industry and business via our strong business event network
Events by category
This project has been made possible with the support of our funding partners:
NSW Reconstruction Authority, Healthy North Coast and NSW Training Services
Acknowledgement of Country
We acknowledge the traditional owners of the Bandjulang, Gumbaynggirr and Yaegl nations on whose land the Northern Rivers encompasses. We acknowledge the unique relationship that all Indigenous Australians have with the land, waterways, mountains, flora, fauna and kin and pay our utmost respect to their history, culture, spirituality and people.
Live Northern Rivers is an initiative of Regional Development Australia, Northern Rivers.
