Business regulations & permits

Council regulates many business activities including food and dining, accommodation, personal services, advertising, commercial filming and busking.

Invest in Cairns

Cairns offers lucrative investment opportunities in tourism, international education, agribusiness, marine services, property and more.

Doing business in Cairns

Resources, information and support to start and grow your business in Cairns

Business news & updates

Stay up to date with investment and business opportunities in Cairns by subscribing to our monthly e-update.

Economic development strategy

Council has strategies for a strong, diversified and sustainable regional economy that supports new and existing industry, investment and business activities.

Cairns Resilient Businesses Network

Join the Cairns Resilient Business network and be prepared for any disaster.

Last Updated: 28 March 2025

Latest News > All News

Council improves community safety

Cairns Regional Council has completed the installation of new CCTV infrastructure at four locations across the Cairns Local Government Area....

Council Projects & Services
22 June 2026

Investing in safe, resilient, connected communities

Cairns’ residents will benefit from a significant investment of $36.4 million in community infrastructure, active travel, recreation facilities and public...

Council Projects & Services
22 June 2026

Council seeks certainty from State for major projects

Council commends significant investment already committed to major projects across housing, health and roads, however the city now needs clear...

Business & Economy
19 June 2026