The Harvey Region is one of the largest LGAs in the South West with an estimated population is more than 30,000 residents. The population of the area grew by 24% in the decade leading into 2021 and is projected to grow by more than 30% by 2031.
The Shire of Harvey is committed to sustainable land use planning, with a focus on protecting its precious natural resources, supporting agriculture, and encouraging responsible development. In fact, in 2021, the Shire of Harvey LGA had a per hectare gross regional product of $11,175, higher than Western Australia’s $1,367.
Situated between the cities of Perth and Bunbury, with a growing population base, the Shire of Harvey LGA is well-placed – literally and figuratively and is fortunate to share the same time zone with key trade markets in Asia.
You’ll find a supportive business environment and a range of investment opportunities in various sectors. The Harvey Region’s current and future investment strengths are in four specific areas:
- Food, agribusiness and technologies
- Mining and manufacturing
- Renewable and clean technologies, and
- Tourism, sport and leisure.
It’s a renowned agricultural region with fertile alluvial soils, warm climate, and abundant water resources, making it an ideal location for agriculture. It’s also a region which is not only succeeding but growing. The Harvey Region’s output by all industries increased by $414 million in 2020/21. It’s a renowned agricultural region with fertile alluvial soils, warm climate, and abundant water resources, making it an ideal location for agriculture. It’s also a region which is not only succeeding but growing. The Harvey Region’s output by all industries increased by $414 million in 2020/21.
The Region’s allure has also caught the attention of leading global companies, such as Albemarle, to one of the world’s largest suppliers of lithium for electric vehicle batteries. The world leader has chosen Kemerton Strategic Industrial Area as the location for its lithium hydroxide processing plant. This investment has already created over 1,800 construction jobs and is expected to generate an additional 370 operational roles in the future, marking the beginning of a brand-new lithium refining industry in WA.
There is significant promise for tourism development, with opportunities for eco-tourism, adventure tourism, and cultural tourism all on the cards for Bunbury Geographe (or BunGeo as its known). Its natural attractions, unique history, and proximity to major markets make it an ideal location for tourism investment and a hot destination for ahead of the curve influencers.
The Harvey Region has well-developed infrastructure. The area has a strong transport network, with connections to Forrest Highway, South Western Highway, Bunbury Port and reliable public transport. Residents and businesses within the Harvey Region are set to benefit from the completion $1 billion+ Bunbury Outer Ring Road project by the end of 2024.
The Harvey Region offers a relaxed and welcoming community lifestyle, with affordable housing, excellent health services, and a range of community events and activities compared to other business hubs. Its strong community spirit and high quality of life make it an attractive location for families and retirees seeking a peaceful and comfortable lifestyle. The Shire of Harvey LGA also has a low unemployment rate, of 3.1% (September 2022).