Driving growth, creating opportunities: Cairns’ economic progress on track

The creation of more than 9,500 new jobs in the past four years and the growth of the local economy to $12.2 billion point to a bright future for Cairns.

Cairns Regional Council has released its latest progress report on the Economic Development Strategy 2022–2026, showing strong momentum towards a more diversified and resilient economy that champions business innovation, growth, and jobs.

Two major funding wins will secure lasting benefits for the community.

The Cairns Water Security Project received a $390 million joint investment after the Federal Government matched the State’s $195 million commitment, while joint funding of $91 million for the Olympic upgrades at Barlow Park will deliver infrastructure that serves Cairns for generations to come.

Council is also supporting local businesses directly, with 89 per cent of Council’s $463 million spend in 2024/25 awarded to local suppliers, an investment that generated more than $1 billion in economic impact across the region.

Council continues to back the industries and events that put Cairns on the map, from the Crankworx and IRONMAN to new agreements with Tourism Tropical North Queensland, Study Cairns, and Superyachts Group Great Barrier Reef.

Stronger partnerships with James Cook University, CQUniversity and TAFE Queensland are opening doors for education and skills development, while targeted initiatives have supported Indigenous businesses, small enterprises, and communities like Babinda to grow local opportunities.

With the economy now at $12.2 billion and more than 9,500 jobs created since 2020, Cairns is on track to achieve the Strategy’s targets of a $13 billion economy and 15,000 new jobs by 2026.

Cairns is also advancing its position as a leader in the Smart Green Economy, showcasing innovative projects that highlight the region’s potential in sustainable growth.

From securing critical infrastructure to creating local jobs, supporting businesses and hosting world-class events, the Strategy’s progress is strengthening the economy in ways that flow directly back to the community.