Economic Overview
With a population of approximately 29,000, the Shire’s economy is dominated by tourism, reflecting the iconic status of Byron Bay and its surrounds.
Byron Bay is clearly the centre of economic activity by virtue of its tourism allure, accounting for over 50% of the Shire’s $1.37 billion gross business revenue. The balance is evenly distributed among the Shire’s other major towns.
| Postcode | Estimated Business Revenue 2006 ($million) |
Percent | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2479 | Bangalow/South | 179 | 13% |
| 2481 | Byron Bay/East | 751 | 55% |
| 2482 | Mullumbimby/West | 214 | 16% |
| 2483 | Brunswick Heads/North | 226 | 16% |
| Total for Shire | 1,370 | 100% |
Note: 2480 post code is excluded because only small area touches Byron Shire while 2479 and 2483 are discounted to accounted for portions outside shire.
Source: analysis based on ABS/ATO data
Areas of economic activity that are earmarked for local support are those identified in the Community Economic Development Policy and a Community Economic Development Strategy which demonstrate Council's commitment to a next-generation sustainable economy.