Agriculture and horticulture
An expansive array of agricultural products from both dryland and irrigated farms.
Robust transport and logistics infrastructure
Connected to capital cities – Melbourne, Adelaide and Sydney – and major shipping ports.
An ambitious renewables sector
The region aims to become the solar capital of Australia through large-scale solar farming.
A growing nature-based and agri-tourism sector
Food, wine, natural beauty, unique hero attractions, cultural significance, an average temperature of 23 degrees, and more sunny days than the Gold Coast.
Experiencing significant growth over the past decade, the Swan Hill Region is home to almost 21,000 people and has an annual economic output of more than $3B.
Competitive advantages stem from the region’s geographic location, availability of natural resources, desirable climate and access to infrastructure.
- Located in north-western Victoria, 340km from Melbourne, 530 km from Adelaide and 940km from Sydney.
- Key towns include: Swan Hill, Robinvale, Lake Boga, Nyah, Nyah West, and Piangil. The region’s proud to have more than 40 nationalities among its community.
- The region’s Australia’s largest producer of table grapes, pistachios, and olives; responsible for a quarter of Australia’s carrots, and 70% of our almonds and olive oil; and is a top contributor to Australia’s stone fruit industry.
- The manufacturing sector is the highest industry contributor to economic output, accounting for $640M.
- Bordered by the nationally-significant Murray, the region has strong credentials in sustainable resource management, embracing next-gen tech to continue to optimise and diversify its agricultural offerings.
- A high number of sunlit hours and good electrical network infrastructure creates excellent conditions for solar innovation and investment; the region’s highly welcoming of expansion in this sector aiming to become the solar capital of Australia.
- Tourism is a growing contributor to the region’s economy, the Murray its key drawcard. An increasing number of tourists are drawn to nature-based and adventure tourism offerings, supported by the region’s premium food and wine, and rich cultural heritage.
Key infrastructure ready to support investment and innovation
- The region’s large agricultural and manufacturing sectors have, in turn, created strong freight and logistics infrastructure, including intermodal freight terminals connecting the region to major cities and ports, namely Melbourne, Adelaide, and Sydney.
- In addition to a highly-skilled agricultural workforce, the region boasts the most entrepreneurs in Victoria, a testament to its inviting communities and thriving regional economy.
- Substantial investment is being made towards residential development for the region to accommodate population growth, which includes housing for seasonal workers.
- The region offers a wide range of medical and allied health services; a strong retail sector; and a range of professional services including accountants, solicitors, financial advisors and major banks.
- Businesses in the region have access to a diverse talent pool, many coming through local tertiary institutions including SuniTAFE, Swan Hill campus.
- Two daily passenger trains travel from Swan Hill to Melbourne, and daily coach services link Swan Hill to Adelaide and Sydney via Albury.
- The region has the fastest growing utilities and waste management sector for all of Victoria. Between 2017 and 2020 electricity, gas, water and waste-water ABNs increased by 125% in the region compared to the Victorian average of -7%.
More Information
Employers and innovators in Swan Hill Rural City
- Andrew Peace Wines – A leading Australian winery
- Boundary Bend Estate – Premium Olive Oil
- Olam International – Largest almond producing facility in the southern hemisphere
- Pumpa Engineering – Custom built trailers
- Polymaster– Water Tanks
Schools and childcare centres
- The region boasts a diverse range of high-quality educational choices from preschool through to Year 12.
- A full range of childcare services are available through both council and private services.
- 5 kindergartens operate across the region.
- 8 primary schools including a specialist school and a Christian college.
- 3 secondary schools
Further industry support
- Swan Hill Rural City Council – Council has a dedicated team to support new business and works closely with the business community.
- Swan Hill Incorporated – Advocates for business businesses in the Swan Hill Region.
- Robinvale Euston Business Association is a group of local business owners invested in improving local business.
Significant projects under construction
- Riverfront precinct Swan Hill – Connecting the Swan Hill riverfront precinct to the CBD.
- Seasonal Accommodation in Robinvale – $744,000 allocated by the VIC Government for new backpacker-style accommodation to be built in Robinvale to house seasonal workers.
Future Plans
Case Studies
Learn more about some of the businesses in our region – why they chose Loddon Mallee, and their vision for the future.
Peace Wines – Generational success in sustainable winemaking
“As we export, we have to be competitive internationally. We have always strived to find out the latest information, to help us make a better product without hurting our planet.” – Jim Peace, Owner / Director
Gallery
Swan Hill Rural City highlights
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