Economic Development

The Paroo Shire Council invites you to explore the opportunities, potential, and lifestyle that make this region an ideal destination for business, investment, and growth. With a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and a welcoming community, Paroo Shire offers a unique blend of liveability and opportunity in the heart of Outback Queensland.

Download the Paroo Shire Business Directory

Why Invest in Paroo Shire?

Paroo Shire is strategically positioned to offer a rewarding environment for businesses seeking to expand or establish themselves. Key benefits include:

  • Strong Community Connections: Our region boasts a supportive and close-knit community, where collaboration and partnerships are at the forefront of local success.
  • Diverse Economic Opportunities: From agriculture and tourism to emerging sectors such as renewable energy and small-scale manufacturing, the Shire’s economy is primed for innovation and diversification.
  • Cost-Effective Living and Operations: Affordable land, competitive commercial rates, and low overheads provide businesses with significant cost advantages.

Livability

Living and working in Paroo Shire means enjoying a lifestyle where natural beauty, safety, and connection come together. Highlights include:

  • Stunning Natural Attractions: Experience the Warrego River, artesian hot springs, and the iconic outback landscapes that draw visitors and locals alike.
  • Rich Cultural Heritage: Our Shire celebrates a deep connection to its Indigenous and pastoral roots, offering unique cultural experiences and stories.
  • Connected and Vibrant Community: Events such as the Cunnamulla Fella Roundup and Outback River Lights Festival bring people together to celebrate the spirit of the outback.

Opportunities for Growth

Paroo Shire is actively seeking new business ventures and investors to help drive economic development. Key sectors include:

  • Tourism Development: With attractions like the Yowah Opal Fields, Cunnamulla Hot Springs, and the endless landscape, opportunities abound for tourism operators, accommodation providers, and experience creators.
  • Agricultural Innovation: From traditional livestock farming to innovative trials like Moringa, Paroo Shire is committed to fostering sustainable agricultural practices.
  • Small Business and Retail: With growing visitor numbers and local demand, there is room for retail, hospitality, and service providers to thrive.

How We Support You

Paroo Shire Council is committed to supporting investors and businesses every step of the way. We offer:

  • Proactive Planning Support: Our team is here to assist with navigating council approvals and processes.
  • Networking and Collaboration: We can connect you with local stakeholders and industry experts to help your venture succeed.
  • Incentives and Resources: Explore potential grants, funding opportunities, and other resources available for businesses in the region.

Paroo Shire Council Local Housing Action Plan 2021-2025

This Local Housing Action Plan is developed through a joint initiative involving the Queensland Government*, Paroo Shire Council (Council) and the Western Queensland Alliance of Councils (WQAC) to respond to a range of immediate, emerging, and longer-term housing challenges in the Paroo Shire.
This is an iterative process that does not intend to duplicate existing actions of Council or the actions under The Queensland Housing Strategy Action Plan 2021-2025. It seeks to identify opportunities, consider an agreed response, develop targeted actions on key priorities and enable ongoing review of effort to adapt and respond to changing need.
The Plan aims to:

  1. develop agreed priority actions to respond to housing need,
  2. establish strong foundations for longer-term housing responses to assist housing and homelessness outcomes in the Paroo Shire into the future.
  3. incorporate existing information and plans that assist with developing responses to housing need and acknowledge work already completed by the Council, State Agencies, private and not-for-profit organisations.
  4. facilitate targeted interaction between all parties through agreed actions to ensure a focus on deliverables and projects that can improve housing responses in the short and longer-term.

Download the Paroo Shire Council Local Housing Action Plan 2021-2025 

Building Paroo Shire’s Future

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or established business, Paroo Shire welcomes you to be part of our exciting journey toward growth and prosperity. Contact our Economic Development team to learn more about the opportunities waiting for you in Paroo Shire.

For more information contact:

Shelly Holland, Economic Development, 0437 478 288, shelly.holland@paroo.qld.gov.au

Main Office (07) 4655 8400 council@paroo.qld.gov.au

 

Community