Orana
The Orana region covers the central and northwestern sectors of New South Wales and the region is rich in natural resources. Agriculture, mining and construction are some of the region’s largest industries alongside the growing renewable energy sector. The region extends from the hilly western slopes of the Warrumbungle Ranges in the east to the flat plains of Cobar and Bourke in the west, and north to the Queensland border. The Orana region encompasses twelve Local Government Areas; Dubbo Regional, Mid-Western Regional, Narromine Shire, Gilgandra Shire, Warren Shire, Coonamble Shire, Warrumbungle Shire, Walgett Shire, Brewarrina Shire, Bogan Shire, Cobar Shire and Bourke Shire.
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Population
123,862
Area
202,665 km²
Source: AEC Group (2022-23)
Top 5 Industries by Employment
Healthcare & Social Assistance
8,204
Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing
6,288
Education & Training
5,375
Retail Trade
4,755
Construction
4,192
Frequently Asked Questions
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Where is the Orana region of NSW and which towns does it include?
The Orana region covers a large area of central and north-western NSW, extending from the Warrumbungle Ranges to Cobar and Bourke in the west and north towards the Queensland border.
The RDA Orana region comprises 12 local government areas: Dubbo Regional, Mid-Western Regional, Narromine, Gilgandra, Warren, Coonamble, Warrumbungle, Walgett, Brewarrina, Bogan, Cobar and Bourke.
Major centres and towns include Dubbo, Mudgee, Wellington, Narromine, Cobar, Coonabarabran, Bourke, Coonamble and Walgett.
A map showing the region’s geographical boundaries is available above.
What are the major industries in Orana?
Orana has established strengths in agriculture, mining, construction, healthcare, education and tourism, alongside a growing renewable energy sector.
Agriculture is a significant part of the regional economy, with broadacre cropping, livestock production, horticulture and food processing supporting local industries and export markets.
Major employment sectors include healthcare and social assistance, agriculture, forestry and fishing, education and training, retail trade, and construction.
Mining, including gold, copper and critical minerals, also contributes to the region’s economic activity.
What business and investment opportunities exist in Orana?
Orana offers business and investment opportunities in agribusiness, mining and critical minerals, renewable energy, food processing, transport and logistics, and tourism.
The Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone is driving significant energy infrastructure development, while the region’s agricultural production, mineral resources and freight connections provide opportunities for industry expansion and supply chain investment.
Businesses and investors can contact RDA Orana for regional economic information, industry connections and insights into development priorities.
How can I contact RDA Orana for local information, business support and skilled migration assistance?
Regional Development Australia Orana (RDA Orana) works with businesses, local government, industry and communities to support economic development, investment and workforce growth across the region.
RDA Orana also administers the Orana Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA), which helps eligible employers address workforce shortages through specified employer-sponsored skilled migration arrangements.
The DAMA extends beyond Orana to include designated areas within Central West, Riverina, Murray and Southern Inland NSW.
Businesses and other organisations can contact RDA Orana directly for information about its services and the DAMA. RDA Sydney can also facilitate introductions through its concierge service.
Visit: RDA Orana
Skilled migration: Orana DAMA
