Published on Monday, 9 November 2026 at 3:58:33 PM

Stay, Grow, Thrive – A Plan for Gnowangerup's Economic Future

The Shire of Gnowangerup has developed its Economic Development Plan 2026–2036, setting a clear direction for economic growth, investment and opportunity across Borden, Gnowangerup and Ongerup over the next ten years.

Titled Stay, Grow, Thrive, the Plan is about much more than business and industry. It is about creating communities where people want to live, families can put down roots, businesses can succeed and future generations have opportunities to build their lives locally.

The Shire has a strong economic foundation, with agriculture at its heart, supported by manufacturing, small businesses, community enterprises and a growing tourism sector. However, like many regional communities, challenges such as housing shortages, workforce availability and access to services can make it difficult for towns to grow.

The Economic Development Plan identifies these challenges and sets out practical opportunities to address them, while building on the strengths that make the Shire unique.

What Does This Mean for Local Residents?

A strong local economy benefits everyone, not just business owners.

When local businesses grow, they create employment opportunities. When more housing becomes available, families and workers have greater opportunities to settle in the area. When visitors come to explore the Stirling Range, attend events or experience the region, they support local shops, accommodation providers and services.

Population growth also helps sustain the schools, sporting clubs, community organisations and essential services that residents rely on.

The Plan recognises that attracting new people is important, but so is creating the right conditions for those already living here to stay and thrive.

Key Priorities for the Next Ten Years

The Plan identifies six strategic economic development projects, supported by the Fields & Fortunes Economic Leadership Initiative.

These include:

• Housing and workforce development – Investigating opportunities for additional housing, attracting skilled workers and supporting population growth.

• Agribusiness, Innovation and Skills Hub – Exploring a centre for agricultural innovation, training, research and industry collaboration.

• Business development and investment – Supporting existing businesses, encouraging new enterprises and attracting investment.

• Gnowangerup Airport development – Investigating opportunities for aviation, tourism, agricultural technology and other emerging industries.

• Tourism development – Building on the Shire's natural attractions, cultural heritage and events to encourage visitation and support local businesses.

• Aboriginal enterprise and cultural tourism – Supporting Aboriginal-led business opportunities and cultural experiences.

The Plan also proposes expanding the role of the successful Fields & Fortunes Regional Business Forum into a year-round initiative that brings businesses, industry, government and community representatives together to progress opportunities.

Turning Plans into Action

The Economic Development Plan is a long-term roadmap, rather than a list of projects that are already funded or ready for construction.

It provides a framework for the Shire to investigate opportunities, undertake feasibility studies, develop business cases, seek funding and work with partners to bring projects closer to delivery.

Many of these opportunities will require collaboration between local government, businesses, industry, Traditional Owners, community organisations and other levels of government.

By identifying priorities now, the Shire can take a coordinated approach to attracting investment, advocating for local needs and preparing projects for future funding opportunities.

A Future Where Communities Stay, Grow and Thrive

The ultimate goal is simple: to ensure Borden, Gnowangerup and Ongerup remain strong, welcoming and sustainable communities for current and future generations.

The Plan provides an opportunity for residents, businesses and community groups to understand the Shire's long-term direction and the opportunities being explored across the region.

Read the Economic Development Plan 2026–2036 on the Shire's website at www.gnowangerup.wa.gov.au, under Council → Public Documents → Integrated Plans.

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