Gascoyne region

The Gascoyne is the western-most point of Australia, with over 600 kilometres of coastline and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ningaloo reef, which is Australia’s largest and most accessible fringing reef. With a geographic area of over 135,000 square kilometres, the Gascoyne consists of four local government areas and has a key regional centre in Carnarvon.

Key statistics*

Estimated resident population: 9,262

Gross regional product: $1.6 billion

Key strengths

  • Agriculture and food, and tourism (including World Heritage areas)
  • Solar and wind resources
  • Significant Aboriginal population, culture and heritage

Infrastructure directions

  • Support agriculture and food
  • Support renewable energy and hydrogen industry
  • Support and capitalise on space science infrastructure

While the Gascoyne region is distinct, consultation highlighted that many regions face shared challenges and opportunities that need to be addressed to achieve the Strategy’s vision. As such, the majority of the Strategy’s 93 recommendations apply to the Gascoyne and other regions. It is expected that the unique circumstances of each region are taken into account when implementing recommendations.

* Adapted from Australian Bureau of Statistics, Regional population: 2019–20 financial year; Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation, Western Australia economic profile – May 2021.