The economic performance of Queanbeyan-Palerang is fuelled by a diverse set of strategic advantages, including access to the markets and decision-makers of the Canberra Region, a well-balanced mix of lifestyle, cultural and economic opportunities, as well as strong geographical, institutional and human resources.
Queanbeyan, Braidwood, Bungendore and the surrounding villages occupy a perfect position to continue growth as a thriving region, benefiting from a highly-educated population and ensuring the success of its industries in an increasingly globalised economy.
QPRC’s plans and strategies are closely aligned with our state and federal levels and the region is recognised in the NSW Government Future Transport Strategy 2056 as a ‘global gateway’.
With the national capital right across the border, Queanbeyan-Palerang has easy access to Canberra’s large and growing consumer market, some of Australia’s best universities and the educated and skilled labour pool of a capital city.
This close proximity to Canberra ensures the opportunity to maintain a comfortable, community-focused lifestyle while having all the amenities of the capital, and its employment opportunities, just minutes away.
In addition to our access to Canberra, Queanbeyan-Palerang is well-connected to lucrative markets around the world with a robust network of major roads, rail links, access to the Port of Eden, and an international airport only 10km from the Queanbeyan CBD.
This network of freight and passenger connections cements Queanbeyan-Palerang’s position as a Global Gateway; our connection to outside markets and opportunities ensures the region will remain competitive into the future.
Our unique location between Canberra and Sydney, combined with Queanbeyan’s positioning as the administrative centre of southern NSW, provides close access to federal, state and neighbouring local levels of Government.
On the back of an innovative and future-focused commercial sector, strong opportunities exist for specialist defence and advanced-tech industries at South Jerrabomberra. With an abundance of ADF members and veterans residing locally, we have a robust and experienced defence-oriented knowledge base fuelling the sector.
This dynamic industry, our proximity to Canberra’s defence hubs and the ample space available for growth and expansion, make Queanbeyan-Palerang the perfect region for defence industry companies to cluster and co-develop.
The region attracts large numbers of professionals, graduates and students aspiring to access Canberra’s labour market and universities, bringing with them a wealth of education, experience and skill that build into a dynamic knowledge economy.
A 2017 study on Knowledge Cities, The Knowledge City Index: A Tale of 25 Cities in Australia, found that Canberra-Queanbeyan's knowledge capital and knowledge economy both rank far above all other cities in Australia on a per capita basis.
Residents of Queanbeyan-Palerang enjoy a fantastic work-life balance, with low commute times, affordable housing, and community-focused lifestyles. Spare time can be filled with access to world-renowned national parks and cultural attractions.
Bungendore, Braidwood and Queanbeyan are all home to high concentrations of arts and recreational services. The Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Economic Development Strategy outlines a priority plan to re-establish each of the region’s town centres as ‘Places for People’.
Queanbeyan-Palerang’s tablelands and temperate climate lend themselves perfectly to productive, specialised agricultural purposes. Livestock and livestock products make up 90% of the agricultural production.
The cool climate, gentle hills and sophisticated terrain are also ideal for viticulture. Queanbeyan-Palerang is known for a tight network of artisanal winemakers and is home to a range of well-respected wine brands.
The superb access to large consumer markets ensures the agribusiness sector can take full advantage of arable land.