As the Northern Rivers experiences rapid growth in our population, this brings with it a diverse range of work to create the infrastructure, services and goods to support more people and more industry. Find out more about some of the key industries in the region and take up opportunities to start, develop, or change your career in Northern Rivers.
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Working in paradise
Image Credit: My Clarence Valley
With a population of over 310,000 residents, the Northern Rivers region supports around 120,000 jobs. Many people that make the move to the region are seeking a work-life balance that allows them to enjoy the natural beauty and activities from the lush hinterland to the stunning coastline.
Each of the Local Government Areas (LGA) include a number of business districts and industrial precincts with a diversity of businesses. This means residents can work within close proximity to where they live. The daily commute is one of the significant differences between working in a capital city and working the Northern Rivers region.
Employers in a diverse range of industries
The region's economy is driven by a variety of sectors. The largest employing sector is in Health Care & Social Assistance followed by Retail, then Education & Training. The region is also renowned for its dairy and beef production. The agricultural sector provides numerous job opportunities, including farm work, harvesting, and processing.
Between highway improvements, flood events, land releases and public asset improvements, the Northern Rivers has a significant pipeline of construction and civil construction projects that employ over 11,000 individuals in various organisations from private construction to council and public works as well as local commercial and tradespeople.
Source: REMPLAN Economy Jobs & Business Insights
Employment Statistics
Statistics by each of the 7 LGAs.
| Local Government Area (LGA) | No. of Jobs | Share of Regional Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Tweed | 34,950 | 28% |
| Lismore | 22,611 | 18% |
| Clarence Valley | 19,247 | 16% |
| Ballina | 18,903 | 15% |
| Byron | 17,129 | 14% |
| Richmond Valley | 7,542 | 6% |
| Kyogle | 2,938 | 2% |
| TOTAL Jobs in Northern Rivers | 123,320 |
Source: REMPLAN Economy Jobs & Business Insights
5 Key Industries
Construction & Civil Construction
Generating around $6.1 billion annually, the construction industry is the sector with the greatest output in the Northern Rivers. Employing over 11,500 individuals, there are a lot of opportunities for work at all levels of construction. Individuals in construction can set up their own business as a builder or tradesperson, build a career in project management. In civil construction there are many major projects in both public infrastructure and major public assets.
Health, Community & Care Services
The Northern NSW Local Health District supports 300,000 residents across the Northern Rivers with 12 hospitals and multi-purpose services, 21 community health centres and other facilities. With a population focused on living well, the region offers a supportive healthcare network and a growing demand for allied health professionals, providing a rewarding and fulfilling career path for individuals passionate about improving people's health and well-being.
Agriculture & Food Production
Northern Rivers is known for its lush landscapes. The fertile land and favourable climate support a thriving farming industry, producing a wide range of crops such as macadamia nuts, tropical fruits, and sugar cane. The region is also renowned for its dairy and beef production. The agricultural sector provides numerous job opportunities, including farm work, harvesting, and processing.
Hospitality, Tourism & Retail
The tourism industry is a vital contributor to the Northern Rivers economy. The region's picturesque beaches, national parks, and charming hinterland attract visitors from all over the world. This sector creates employment opportunities in hospitality, accommodation, tour guide roles, and recreational activities such as surf and dive instruction.
Manufacturing & Engineering
Manufacturing in the Northern Rivers ranges from food processing plants to metal, concrete and glass fabrication of components and building supplies to advanced manufacturing of packaging. A career in manufacturing and engineering can start from production line work and lead through to more skilled and technical work.
