Economic Strategy

Economic Prosperity in Esperance: Planning for a Thriving Future

Esperance is growing and thriving, a great place to live, work, invest and visit. This aspiration, drawn from our Council Plan, reflects the Shire’s commitment to building a vibrant and resilient community.

While we continue to make strong progress, we also face challenges such as rising living costs, interest rates, housing availability, labour shortages, and broader global pressures. These factors are beginning to impact our way of life and the local economy.

Our Economic Plan: Supporting Growth and Opportunity

In response, the Shire has developed an Economic Plan that outlines key projects and initiatives designed to support sustainable growth and create opportunities for our community — now and into the future.

This plan, alongside private and government developments, aims to strengthen the Esperance economy and ensure our region continues to prosper.

Read or download the Economic Development Plan here

Hard copies are available on request from the Shire Administration Building.

For further information, contact Shane Liddelow on (08) 9071 0666.

Esperance’s Economic Landscape: Strengths, Industries and Opportunities

A Unique Regional Centre

Esperance is a remote regional centre in the south-east of Western Australia, defined by its resilience, self-sufficiency and destination appeal. With the nearest significantly sized community over 400km away and no through traffic, Esperance is not just a stopover - it's a place people choose to visit, live and invest in.

This geographic isolation has fostered a microeconomy and a highly resilient community, with tourism playing a major role in leveraging Esperance's natural beauty and destination status.

Strategic Infrastructure: Esperance Port

The Esperance Port is a cornerstone of the Esperance economy and the only deep-water port in the south-east of the State. Handling over 200 ships annually, the port facilitates the export of nickel, iron ore, woodchips and grain, and the import of fuel and fertilisers. It is a vital link in the supply chain for industries across the region and supports Esperance's role as a key logistics hub.

Agriculture and Mining: Economic Pillars

Agriculture remains the most significant industry in the Esperance region, driving both local production and regional transport and logistics. The sector is supported by the port and underpins a wide range of rural and industrial service enterprises. 

Mining also plays a critical role, even though there are currently no active mines within the Shire. Esperance serves as a strategic export point for resources from the broader Yilgarn iron ore province, reinforcing its importance in the regional mining supply chain.

Together, these industries support a diverse small business community, including manufacturing and service enterprises that contribute to the region's economic strength. 

Population Stability and Employment

Esperance has long been a stable and sustainable community, avoiding the population fluctuations seen in other regional towns. This stability is closely tied to the strength of its agricultural and mining sectors.

Looking ahead, future population growth will depend on continued investment and development. Esperance currently enjoys one of the lowest unemployment rates in Australia, reflecting a strong local economy and skilled workforce.