Business and Investment services

Alongside our population growth and incredible liveability story, is one of transformation.  Of new and emerging industries, particularly in knowledge-based and creative industries.
This transformation is built on our already incredibly strong base across manufacturing, transport and logistics, health, research, education, and the visitor economy. 

Greater Geelong is one of Australia’s most desirable regions to live, work and invest.

Geelong's Prime Location

Nestled in Victoria, Geelong stands as Australia's second-largest city, home to a vibrant community of over 280,000 residents. Located just 75 kilometres southwest of Melbourne, Geelong enjoys a strategic position in a region teeming with investment opportunities.

Rapid Economic Expansion

Geelong boasts the second-fastest Gross Regional Product (GRP) growth among Australia's 20 largest economies. This remarkable growth is underpinned by a diverse range of industries, including advanced manufacturing, healthcare, education, professional services, defence, creative industries, and clean economy.

Investment Opportunities

With 163 major projects valued at $13.0 billion in the investment pipeline (June 2024), Geelong offers an abundance of opportunities for investors. These projects span various sectors, from infrastructure to renewable energy, reinforcing Geelong's position as a region of economic activity. 

There is a thriving startup culture in Geelong where new businesses are developing all the time and existing businesses are looking to grow. – Adam Murray, Partner, Findex

Population Boom

Geelong is experiencing the fastest population growth in Victoria and ranking second nationally. In the year to June 2023, the City of Greater Geelong grew by 2.2 per cent adding 6,208 residents and bringing the total population to 282,809. The city’s sustained population growth is being driven by many factors including its proximity to Melbourne, affordable housing, diverse job opportunities and lifestyle.

Small Business Powerhouse

Geelong's economy thrives on the strength of its small businesses. With over 22,000 small businesses accounting for around 97 percent of all businesses in the region, they inject approximately $9 billion into the local economy.

Small businesses are a huge economic driver of Greater Geelong and their success is important to our vision for a clever and creative future - Mayor, City of Greater Geelong, Cr Trent Sullivan

Growing Skilled Workforce

Geelong has a large professional workforce. In 2021, there were 26,000 knowledge and professional workers living in Greater Geelong, expanding to 35,000 when including the G21 region and 135,000 including Wyndham and western Melbourne. With the population of the Geelong-Wyndham corridor set to exceed 1,000,000 in the next 20 years, the talent pool is rapidly expanding.

Geelong's Connected Business Community

Geelong is known for its highly connected business community. Business and industry networks operate with a strong sense of collaboration and referral. Deakin University and The Gordon TAFE work closely with local businesses to provide career-ready graduates, with over 24,000 people studying at Geelong campuses.

Premium Office Spaces

A pipeline of more than $400 million in new office developments is set to create exciting opportunities for knowledge and professional services’ businesses in Geelong. This includes two new approved office buildings which will add 25,000 sqm of A-grade office space to Geelong’s flourishing knowledge and enterprise precinct.

Geelong’s Unbeatable Lifestyle

Geelong offers an unmatched lifestyle with a cosmopolitan city centre, stunning natural surroundings, and affordable housing. The city is undergoing a transformation with a vibrant food, wine, and arts scene, including 'chef’s hat' restaurants and elegant wine bars. The arts precinct features the Geelong Art Gallery and Geelong Arts Centre. The north-facing waterfront hosts major international sporting events. Nearby, world-renowned surf beaches and coastal villages offer endless outdoor exploration. Geelong boasts top schools and universities, making it a popular choice for new residents.

Invest in Geelong

With its strategic location, rapid economic growth, booming population, and thriving small business sector, Geelong presents unparalleled investment opportunities. Whether you're considering establishing a new venture, expanding an existing one, or investing in property, Geelong offers a fertile ground for success.

Watch this video to see why our region’s future is bright, and one of Australia’s most desirable regions to live, work and invest. 

See: Greater Geelong: Economy at a Glance

At the City, we support local business and promote investment opportunities to drive economic growth in Greater Geelong.

We attract investment by:

• coordinating investment and trade visits
• promoting Greater Geelong business and industry capabilities
• assisting with regulatory processes and permits.

We support local business by:

• providing local economic information to help with decision-making
• identifying grants and funding opportunities
• delivering programs and events to grow, diversify and upskill our labour force.

We drive economic growth by:

• leading the way on matters that affect the local economy
• advocating for projects that support strategic business and industry development
• coordinating industry experts to investigate opportunities for Greater Geelong.

Register your details to download our Geelong Professional Services brochure.

Contact the City to find out more about business in Geelong, including connecting with local networks, economic data, or finding a location for your business. Email us or call us on 03 5272 4888.