Investing in our Region

People buy fresh produce

The Murrindindi Shire has approximately 15,300 residents spread across the Kinglake Ranges, Alexandra and Yea townships, the villages of Marysville and Eildon, numerous small townships and rural areas. The region is celebrated for its picturesque landscapes, hidden waterfalls and a network of tracks and trails.

Prominent natural attractions include Lake Mountain Alpine Resort, Cathedral Range State Park, Kinglake and Lake Eildon National Parks.

Our communities are vibrant and interconnected through 1,800 businesses serving the area, with that number set to expand as the population and investment in the area grow.

 Key industries in Murrindindi are:

Agriculture, Aquaculture & Horticulture

The agriculture sector, encompassing aquaculture and horticulture is the highest contributing sector to the Murrindindi Shire economy. The region presently boasts a well established, high quality output of 388M (24%), a testament to the Shire's excellent suitability with highly productive land, favourable climate and optimal conditions for freshwater fish farming. This is bolstered by comprehensive infrastructure and land-use planning that safeguards agribusiness against urban encroachment.

Manufacturing & Construction

The manufacturing and construction industry are key sectors in the Shire contributing a combined output of $497M (28.7%) and 16.7% employment. Murrindindi is home to a diverse array of niche manufacturing businesses including the production and upkeep of houseboats, motor engineering and the creation of modular prefabricated buildings. By bolstering other key business sectors like tourism, agriculture and residential and commercial development, there is a broad spectrum of prospects for the growth of light industrial businesses.

Visitor Economy

Visitor Economy is an important sector to Murrindindi Shire contributing 12.5% employment in the region. The Shire  holds significant untapped potential in nature-based tourism, with its proximity to Melbourne making it a favoured adventure playground throughout the year.

The region’s diverse offerings, including boutique accommodation, specialty retail, arts and cultural experiences and food and wine options, complement its strong portfolio of nature-based attractions.

Education & Training

Education and training is a fundamental sector within the local economy. In addition to the primary and secondary educational services in the Shire, there's an expanding group of providers that offer outdoor and environmental education, leadership programs, corporate training, adventure activities and school camps.

Outdoor Education is a key component in the region, leveraging its natural features such as rivers, mountains, paths and camping sites to provide educators with the means to offer innovative and distinctive experiences for learners of all ages. Collectively, this sector is a vital contributor to the region's economy by supporting local goods and services.

Health Care & Social Assistance

The Health Care and Social Assistance sector is vital to the community, serving as a fundamental support for improved health and healthy aging within the Murrindindi Shire. Currently, the sector contributes 524 essential service jobs in the Shire.

Murrindindi is an ideal location for aged care and retirement living due to its accessibility, cost-effectiveness, lifestyle and amenities. The local demographics and broader aging population trends are increasing the demand for existing facilities and services, indicating a future need for more aged care, retirement living, allied health and well-being facilities and services.

Forestry

The Forestry industry within Murrindindi Shire is traditionally made up of two key sectors:

  • Native hardwood plantation timber
  • Native hardwood and softwood

There is also some growth in the timber processing on the back of local timber production. With the Victorian Forestry Transition away from native timber, the community of Murrindindi Shire are unlocking new and innovative economic opportunities through the Shaping Murrindindi’s Future Project.

For more detail, please visit the below resources:

If you would like more information please contact the Economic Development team by email at businesssupport@murrindindi.vic.gov.au or phone (03) 5772 0333 to speak with a team member. 

You are also welcome to visit Starting or growing your business to find out more about Council permits and requirements.