2025 Esperance economic wrap up

2025 has been a year of steady growth for the Esperance economy, which we have summarised below for our main industry bodies.

Agriculture

Throughout the year, the industry navigated global commodity price pressures, however, despite this, most regions in the Esperance zone received above average rainfall, providing growers with some optimism.

As of early December 2025, the CBH Group reported that the Esperance Zone has received 3,236,000 tonnes of grain for the 2025 harvest, which now exceeds last year's figure of 3,165,000 tonnes. The zone also set a record for its highest daily receival, reaching 118,531 tonnes during the peak of harvest.

Esperance Port - Southern Ports 

Southern Ports has continued to drive growth in the regional economy through a diverse trade profile, including more than 8.2mt of trade through the Port of Esperance and significant progress on its record $59m capital works program across its ports. With 125 Esperance-based staff, Southern Ports is a strong contributor to local jobs, and its community initiatives continue to make a lasting impact. This included $140,000 in grants provided to 46 grassroots community groups across the Esperance-Goldfields region, its Foodbank partnership and its engagement in an array of community events.

Tourism & Hospitality

Tourism and hospitality faced ongoing labour shortages in 2025, however despite challenges, our community benefited from strong domestic travel and events. Here are some numbers:

·         According to Tourism Research Australia, Esperance had 200,000 visitors this year.

·         Visitors have increased their length of stay in Esperance to 6 nights.

·         Visitor spending makes up 15% of the Esperance economy.

ECCI Summary

The Esperance economy continued to make steady progress in 2025. ECCI hosted a number of workshops and offered advisory services to help businesses navigate certain challenges they face and uncover new growth opportunities.

In 2026, we are hopeful there will be further targeted investment in infrastructure, workforce and housing development.

A message from our Executive Officer, Jennifer Obourne:

"As we wrap up another big year for Esperance, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our business community for your support, resilience and commitment to our region. It has been inspiring to see local people back each other, and I am grateful for the spirit of collaboration that continues to strengthen our town.

With the festive season upon us, I wish you and your families a joyful Christmas and a safe and relaxing New Year. If you're travelling, please take care on the roads, enjoy the break and return refreshed for the opportunities ahead in 2026".