Economic Overview

• Central hub for domestic and international markets with access to Northern Australia, Southeast Queensland, and Southern States via Carnarvon and Warrego Highways and Roma Airport, as well as international markets through Wellcamp Airport, Port of Brisbane, and Port of Gladstone.
• Diverse freight and logistics options including road transport via the Inland Freight Route and air freight via Roma Airport.
• Regular air passenger servicesoperate between Roma and Brisbane, offering a total of 67,000 seats annually. Special fares available for residents and small-to-medium businesses. Roma Airport is equipped to accommodate jets with up to 75 seats.
• Development of the billion-dollar Inland Freight Route improving connectivity between Mungindi and Charters Towers through the Maranoa

• Recognised as a healthcare hub with facilities like the Roma Hospital offering essential medical services and specialised care to surrounding communities.
• Vibrant retail sector with a range of shops, markets, and services that cater to both local residents and visitors.
• Educational support through institutions such as the Country Universities Centre Maranoa, TAFE Queensland Roma Campus, and other vocational education services.
• Critical support services for agriculture and industry, including machinery, equipment, and professional services vital for the productivity of these sectors.
• Large residential population supporting labour supply and demand for goods and services, with half of Southwest Queensland's workforce residing in the Maranoa.
• Local and State government service base, for the broader region.

• Large number of entrepreneurs making an impact.
• Supportive and collaborative small business environment for new and existing businesses.
• Positive community sentiment towards major projects and industry activity with a long serving history in the oil and gas industry.
• Diverse and connected business community (over 2,600 small businesses), with a strong ‘buy local’ economy.
• Innovation is driving growth, with businesses adopting new technologies and creative solutions.
• Maranoa Regional Council is a Small Business Friendly Council.

• Well-developed water infrastructure, including extensive water storage, artesian waters, and distribution systems, ensuring a reliable supply for residential, agricultural, and industrial needs.
• Stable and extensive electricity grid, with connections to major power sources and infrastructure that support both residential and industrial energy needs.
• Digital connectivity with access to high-speed broadband and mobile networks, facilitating business operations and enhancing communication for residents and enterprises.

• The Great Artesian Basin (GAB), the largest and deepest artesian basin in the world, is located under the Maranoa. The GAB is the only source of fresh water for a significant area of inland Australia.
• Strategic location for energy projects with access to both local and broader energy markets.
• Favourable climatic conditions and abundant renewable resources with energy potential.
• Established energy infrastructure with existing electricity grid assets and utilities infrastructure supporting the development.
• Substantial reserves of natural gas and coal seam gas play a vital role in Australia’s energy sector, while supporting local jobs.

• Availability of competitively priced industrial land within the industrial estates.
• Industrial land is well serviced by water, gas, electricity and strategically located to main arterial roads, railways, and the Roma Airport.
• Low biodiversity impacts and relatively low constrained areas.
• Ready to move in commercial premises with low land costs, offering excellent opportunities for retail and service-oriented businesses with easy access to major transport links.
• Pro-development, economically focused local government, committed to investing and partnering to deliver growth.
• Established Utilities Infrastructure - including an in-ground reticulated natural gas network in Roma.

• Upward trend in economic growth, driven by key sectors such as oil and gas, agriculture, and population servicing sectors.
• Strong global presence, with net exports totalling $2.2 billion.

For a confidential discussion about opportunities in the Maranoa and how we can support you, please complete the contact form linked here to access Maranoa Regional Council’s Investment Concierge Service and obtain a full copy of the Investment Prospectus, which includes information on major projects, lifestyle, and industries of opportunity.