WorkinCoffsHarbour

Strategic coastal location, growing economy, government incentives – your investment opportunity

Coffs Harbour presents a compelling investment proposition: a regional centre experiencing sustained economic growth while retaining the advantages of affordability, lifestyle appeal and strong government support. The city’s evolution from a tourism-led economy to a diversified regional hub is creating opportunities across healthcare, education, construction, agribusiness, technology and services.

Investment climate

Economic growth foundations

Coffs Harbour’s economy is underpinned by steady employment growth and population expansion across the Mid North Coast. The local government area supports more than 38,000 employed residents, with unemployment remaining around 3.4 ~ 4.1%, below long-term regional averages. Ongoing infrastructure delivery, residential development and sector diversification continue to strengthen economic resilience.

These indicators signal an economy transitioning towards higher-value activity, creating attractive entry points for investors seeking regional growth before full market maturity.

Government incentives & strategic support

Regional development programs

Coffs Harbour benefits from long-term regional planning and targeted investment strategies designed to support sustainable growth. The North Coast Regional Plan 2041↗ prioritises employment land, housing supply, infrastructure delivery and environmental stewardship. Locally, Coffs Harbour City Council’s Economic Development Strategy supports business attraction, innovation and skills development.

State and federal incentives

A range of state and federal initiatives support investment in regional New South Wales, including the NSW Regional Job Creation Fund, Regional Growth Fund and federal grants for innovation, clean energy and advanced manufacturing. These programs provide financial assistance, streamlined approvals and advisory support for eligible projects.

Commercial real estate opportunities

Office space & business precincts

Coffs Harbour offers modern commercial space at significantly lower cost than metropolitan markets while retaining access to skilled labour and transport links. Key precincts include the city centre, Jetty precinct, health and education campuses and emerging mixed-use developments.

Indicative rental rates highlight strong value, with office space typically ranging from $280–$380 per square metre, business park space from $180–$260 per square metre, and industrial or warehouse facilities from $90–$140 per square metre.

Industrial & logistics opportunities

Strategic access to the Pacific Highway, regional airport and port infrastructure supports logistics, food processing and light manufacturing. Advantages include freight connectivity, available industrial land, proximity to agricultural supply chains and a skilled regional workforce.

Investment sectors

Technology & innovation

Coffs Harbour’s emerging technology sector presents early-stage opportunities across digital services, health technology, environmental services and remote-enabled businesses. Growth areas include software development, IT services, digital health solutions, sustainability technologies and education platforms.

Healthcare & aged care

Population ageing and regional service demand are driving sustained investment in healthcare and aged care. Opportunities include private medical centres, specialist clinics, aged care accommodation, allied health practices and healthcare technology providers.

Tourism & hospitality

Tourism remains a cornerstone of the local economy, supporting accommodation, dining and experience-based businesses. Investment opportunities include boutique accommodation, hospitality venues, eco-tourism, events infrastructure and recreation facilities.

Business establishment support

Starting your business

Service NSW – Business↗ and Investment NSW↗ provide comprehensive support for business establishment and expansion, including regulatory guidance, workforce recruitment assistance, supplier connections and market development services.

Networking & professional development

A collaborative business environment underpins Coffs Harbour’s investment appeal. Active networks include the Coffs Harbour Chamber of Commerce, Business NSW Mid North Coast, industry associations and regional development organisations.