The Hunter Region stretches from the golden coastlines of Newcastle and Lake Macquarie to the award-winning vineyards of the Hunter Valley and the rolling hills of the Upper Hunter. The region covers an area of 2.269 million hectares and services a population of 711,909 people. It comprises nine local government areas: Cessnock, Dungog, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Muswellbrook, Newcastle, Port Stephens, Singleton and Upper Hunter Shire.

The Hunter Region is one of NSW’s most economically significant areas, generating $74.0 billion in Gross Regional Product (2023-24). It is home to 53,516 businesses and provides employment for 339,874 people, with an unemployment rate of just 3.8%.

The Hunter’s economy is diverse and robust, with major contributions from:

• Mining – $13.5 billion in output, employing 15,269 people
• Health Care and Social Assistance – $6.0 billion, employing 68,045 people
• Construction – $5.7 billion, employing 37,375 people
• Manufacturing – $4.2 billion, employing 16,494 people
• Professional, Scientific & Technical Services – $3.6 billion, employing 18,735 people
• Public Administration & Safety – $3.5 billion, employing 21,955 people

The region’s diverse economic base, combined with its strategic location and world-class infrastructure, positions it as a key driver of regional economic growth for NSW.

The region is renowned for blending natural charm with exceptional economic opportunity and a distinctive lifestyle that balances professional opportunity with leisure and relaxation. Residents enjoy easy access to world-class beaches and waterfronts, internationally recognised vineyards in the Hunter Valley, and stunning national parks and natural landscapes. The region’s 111,000 hectares of national parks, 9,000 hectares of nature reserves and extensive protected areas provide exceptional recreational opportunities. A thriving arts and food scene, award-winning restaurants and cafes, and vibrant cultural events complement the strong sense of community and belonging.