The Northern Rivers is one of the most naturally gifted regions in Australia, showcasing productive soils, a mild climate, world renowned beaches and national parks, alongside a creative, growing population. It’s also a region backed by unprecedented levels of government investment as a major infrastructure and resilience programs reshaping the way the region connects, produces and grows. When you’re weighing up where to invest next, don’t ask “Why the Northern Rivers?”, ask “Why not?”
Think of Regional Development Australia Northern Rivers as your investment concierge. Whether you’re relocating a business or investing in one already here, contact us and we’ll help chart your pathway into the region.
At a glance
- Total area: 20, 706 km2
- Population: over 310,000 across seven local government areas
- Land defined by the Tweed, Richmond and Clarence river systems
- Major centres: Tweed Heads, Lismore, Ballina and Grafton – all connected by the upgraded Pacific Highway
- Specialist industry towns: Murwillumbah (Sugar), Byron Bay (Tourism), Casino (Beef)
- Home to Southern Cross University, TAFE NSW with campus locations throughout the region, diverse cultural and creative sector
- National parks, World Heritage-listed rainforests and one of Australia’s most productive agricultural regions
Why Invest Here
The Northern Rivers offers a rare combination of major infrastructure investment underway, a resilient economy backed by the Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program being rolled out by the NSW Reconstruction Authority, strong and diversifying industries, a thriving visitor economy and a lifestyle that attracts skilled people. The Northern Rivers is in one of the largest sustained infrastructure investment periods in its history, making now the time to invest.
Infrastructure on the move
The completed Pacific Highway upgrade has cut freight and travel times between Sydney and Brisbane, while the $150m Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program (NRRRP) continues to be rolled out by the NSW Reconstruction Authority, this program includes 25 infrastructure projects covering improvements to drainage, upgraded pumps, road and bridge raisings. A new Northern Rivers Enabling Critical Infrastructure Prioritisation Study is now underway to identify the next wave of infrastructure needed to unlock further growth. See our Freight and Transport page for more.
Industry Strength and Diversification
The Northern Rivers’ agricultural, food manufacturing and timber industries remain internationally competitive, while new opportunities are emerging in horticulture, aquaculture, value-added food production and the digital economy. Explore our Agribusiness, Food Manufacturing and Digital Economy pages for sector specific details.
A Visitor Economy on the Rise
World class beaches, hinterland and events draw visitors from across Australia and overseas, underpinning a strong and growing tourism sector. Find out more about the Tourism Economy on the Northern Rivers here.
Lifestyle that Attracts Talent
Affordable (relative to metro) housing, a temperate climate and a strong creative and cultural scene continues to attract tree and sea changers, retirees and remote working professionals. Bringing new skills and spending power into the region. Learn more on Live Northern Rivers.
Local Government Working Together
Seven councils and the Northern Rivers Joint Organisation (NRJO) collaborate closely on regional priorities, backed by Rous County Council’s regional water security planning. Learn more on our Local Government page.
Ready to Invest in the Northern Rivers?
For tailored support finding the right opportunity, location or connections for your business, get in touch with RDA Northern Rivers, your investment concierge for the region.
Get in touch