Warrnambool is a key industry centre in the Great South Coast region, generating a GRP of approximately $1.6 billion and accounting for over 20% of the region’s economic output from less than 1% of the land area.

The following six sectors account for over two thirds of employees whose place of work is located within Warrnambool: Healthcare and Social Assistance; Retail trade; Education and Training; Accommodation and Food Services; Construction and Manufacturing.

Census 2011 revealed that the Healthcare and Social Assistance sector is now Warrnambool’s biggest employer by industry, overtaking the Retail sector.

Strong labour force growth and a steady unemployment rate reflect a positive labour market and job prospects in the region. For the December Quarter 2012, Warrnambool reported the lowest unemployment rate (5.4%) of regional cities (by Local Government Area) in Victoria.

Warrnambool is a popular and expanding tourism destination with increasing visitor demand. Property and business services, Government administration and construction are key growth sectors in the City.