乐鱼（Leyu）体育官网鈥檚 second edition of the Enterprising Cities report explores recent economic growth trends for 12 of Australia鈥檚 most rapidly evolving cities.
Despite recent economic headwinds , we鈥檝e seen these Enterprising Cities show remarkable resilience, thanks to robust local communities and unique physical and natural strengths. With advances in technology they鈥檙e poised for further growth, but to do so, they must navigate challenges including regulations and capital and talent attraction.
Discover how these vibrant centres, home to nearly 10 million people, are set to shape Australia鈥檚 economic future by transforming businesses and meeting the needs of their evolving populations.
Where are the Enterprising Cities?
Despite economic headwinds, the economies of the Enterprising Cities remain resilient. This resilience is founded in the strength of local business and the broader community.
Performance and growth of Enterprising Cities: Key statistics
Population
1.7% growth
2024鈥檚 return of international migration saw the Enterprising Cities鈥� population growth slightly behind the rest of the country (1.9%)
Construction jobs
2.4% 鈥� rest of Australia
Job numbers in new infrastructure and the residential construction sector have risen to accommodate a growing population
Unemployment rate
4.0% 鈥� rest of Australia
The unemployment rate remains steady, and lower than the rest of Australia. Job vacancies show employers are struggling to fill open positions
Manufacturing jobs
1.2% 鈥� rest of Australia
Supply chain uncertainties have led to increases in investments in local manufacturing in Enterprising Cities, providing more job opportunities
The strong business foundation, vibrant communities, and diverse industries in our cities are well positioned to help shape a positive economic future for the nation.
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Enterprising Cities
Find out how 12 Australian cities are shaping the nation's future
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Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
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How are the Enterprising Cities selected? Enterprising Cities are selected based on their significant role in Australia鈥檚 economy. They must have experienced robust growth over the past five years, driven by their multifaceted environments and entrepreneurial spirit.
The selection of Enterprising Cities considers their economic performance, population growth, and employment rates. And, includes their ability to attract people, businesses and opportunities, plus their resilience in facing economic challenges. These cities are also chosen for their diverse industry sectors.
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What is a main trend seen across all the Enterprising Cities? The COVID-19 pandemic brought about a notable shift in Australia鈥檚 population growth, steering it away from major capital cities towards smaller cities. This migration has revitalised regional economies, impacting local and residential housing and job markets.
Another commonalilty is their durability and adaptability in the face of recent economic challenges. Despite economic headwinds, these cities have remained resilient.
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How are Enterprising Cities contributing to economic growth? Enterprising Cities employ over one one-third of all Australians . They have experienced robust growth over the past five years and are increasingly seen as desirable destinations, attracting people and businesses from larger metropolitan areas and drawing interest from international companies looking to establish a presence and invest in these thriving urban centres.
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What are the population trends in Enterprising Cities? Enterprising Cities house almost 10 million people (36% of Australia鈥檚 population) and they have 5.1 million workers (36% of Australian workers).
The population grew by 1.7% during 2024 compared with 1.9% for the rest of Australia. This was mainly due to higher international migration favouring cities over regional areas.
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What are the key industry trends in Enterprising Cities? Enterprising Cities are emerging as centres of excellence for advanced manufacturing, focusing on renewable energy, advanced material production, aerospace, healthcare, agrifood, and defence-related industries.
The healthcare industry is expanding due to an ageing population, rising demand for health services, increasing health consciousness, and a focus on preventive care. Professional services have also seen significant growth, offering higher wages and knowledge-based services like IT, accounting, and engineering.
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What are the future growth prospects for Enterprising Cities? Enterprising Cities have the potential to further enhance their attractiveness to residents and businesses through strategic urban development, focusing on quality of life and talent, business and investment attraction.
The 乐鱼（Leyu）体育官网 Cities of Value framework provides a strategic tool for sustainable urban development, helping Enterprising Cities to thrive economically, socially, and environmentally.
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What are the job trends in Enterprising Cities? The number of workers in Enterprising Cities increased by 2.5% during 2024 compared to 3.0% for the rest of Australia. Job vacancies remain high by historical levels, highlighting that employers are still struggling to fill open positions, and point to ongoing strength in the labour market.
Over the next five years, Enterprising Cities are projected to create thousands of new jobs, with specific growth in industries such as healthcare, professional services, and advanced manufacturing.