Keeping it local pays off for Cairns

• 91% of Council's $595 million annual expenditure was spent with local suppliers, injecting $539 million directly into the Cairns economy.
• Council's local procurement generated a total economic impact of $1.2 billion and contributed $536 million to the region's Gross Regional Product.
• An estimated 4,836 jobs were created across the Cairns region through Council's investment in local businesses and industry.

More than nine out of every 10 dollars spent in 2025/26 stayed in the local economy, contributing to a total economic impact of $1.2 billion across the Cairns region.

Cairns Regional Council's State of Procurement Report shows $539 million was spent with local suppliers during the financial year, generating a $1.2 billion economic impact across the Cairns region.

Cairns Mayor Amy Eden said the results reflect Council's commitment to supporting local businesses and creating opportunities for local industry.

“Supporting local business is a fundamental principle of Council's procurement policy and a key part of our approach to economic development,” Cr Eden said.

“By prioritising local suppliers wherever possible, we're helping to keep more investment in our region and strengthening Cairns’ economic resilience.

“The results demonstrate the important role local procurement plays in supporting jobs and creating opportunities for businesses across Cairns.”

Of Council's total expenditure of $595 million, 91 per cent was spent locally.

Most spending outside the region related to specialised products and services, or government charges where no local supplier option existed.

Council's local spending supported an estimated 4,836 jobs and generated $536 million in economic value for the Cairns region, equivalent to 4.2 per cent of Gross Regional Product.

The report also highlighted the broad benefits of Council's investment across the local economy.

Council's operational spending supported approximately 2,437 jobs, while its $292 million capital works program generated an estimated 2,399 jobs through direct, indirect and consumption impacts.

The report also shows Council's focus on local procurement continues to improve year on year.

Local expenditure increased from $463 million in 2024/25 to $539 million in 2025/26, lifting Council's local procurement rate from 89 per cent to 91 per cent.

“This result is something our local business community can be proud of,” Cr Eden said.

“Despite ongoing economic challenges nationally, Council is continuing to invest in local companies, local workers and local industry capability.

“The outcome is a stronger, more resilient economy that benefits the entire Cairns community.”