Central West
The Central West region is renowned for its food, wine, and excellent agricultural produce. The region extends from the temperate, elevated Central Tablelands on the western side of the Blue Mountains for almost 500km to the semi-arid Central West plains. Unique in its diversity of economy, the Central West Region of NSW is rich in natural resources with agriculture, mining and tourism being significant drivers of employment and economic opportunity. Health and education continue to grow and make a significant contribution to the region’s economy. The region encompasses the 11 local government areas of Bathurst, Blayney, Cabonne, Cowra, Forbes, Lachlan, Lithgow, Oberon, Orange, Parkes and Weddin.
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Population
182,000
Area
51,646 km²
94,303 total jobs with GRP of $15.9B
Source: AEC Group (2022-23)
Top 5 Industries by Employment
Healthcare & Social Assistance
13,187
Education & Training
8,056
Retail Trade
7,469
Agriculture Fishing & Forestry
6,974
Public Administration & Safety
6,638
Frequently Asked Questions
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Where is the Central West region of NSW and which towns does it include?
The Central West is located west of the Blue Mountains, extending from the elevated Central Tablelands to the plains of inland NSW.
The RDA Central West region comprises 11 local government areas: Bathurst, Blayney, Cabonne, Cowra, Forbes, Lachlan, Lithgow, Oberon, Orange, Parkes and Weddin.
Major regional centres include Bathurst, Orange, Lithgow, Parkes, Forbes and Cowra.
A map showing the region’s geographical boundaries is available above.
What are the major industries in the Central West?
The Central West has a diverse economy, with established strengths in agriculture, food and wine production, mining, manufacturing and tourism.
Major employment sectors include healthcare and social assistance, education and training, retail trade, agriculture, and public administration and safety.
The region’s natural resources, agricultural production, regional centres and established industries support a broad range of economic activity.
What business and investment opportunities exist in the Central West?
The Central West offers business and investment opportunities across agribusiness, food processing, manufacturing, mining, transport and logistics, and renewable energy.
Major transport connections and established agricultural and industrial industries support opportunities for business development and supply chain growth.
The region is also exploring opportunities in the circular economy, including collaboration between industry, councils and researchers to develop new approaches to resource recovery and sustainable production.
Businesses and investors can contact RDA Central West for local economic information, industry connections and insights into regional development priorities.
How can I contact RDA Central West for local information and assistance?
Regional Development Australia Central West (RDA Central West) works with local government, businesses, industry and communities to support sustainable economic development across the region.
It provides regional economic information, facilitates partnerships and supports initiatives that strengthen the local economy.
Businesses, investors and other organisations seeking local expertise can contact RDA Central West directly.
RDA Sydney can also facilitate introductions between metropolitan stakeholders and RDA Central West through its concierge service.
Visit: RDA Central West
