Capes

The Capes combines globally recognised destination branding with a mature and diversified economy. Alongside tourism, the region benefits from strong agribusiness, creative industries, construction and professional services sectors, supported by rapidly growing communities.

• Globally recognised Margaret River brand – One of Australia’s most recognised regional brands, Margaret River supports premium positioning across tourism, wine, food production and exports, helping attract visitors, investors and businesses.
• Strategic aviation gateway – Busselton functions as the Capes commercial, transport and service hub, with the Busselton Margaret River Airport strengthening connectivity between the South West and interstate markets, supporting business growth, tourism, workforce mobility and investment attraction.
• Premium food, wine and agribusiness sector – Internationally acclaimed wineries, food producers and agricultural enterprises support local employment, value-adding opportunities and export growth.
• Creative and cultural economy – The Capes has become a magnet for artists, designers, makers, performers and creative entrepreneurs, supported by venues such as the HEART in Margaret River and Saltwater Busselton Convention and Performing Arts Centre, which contribute to cultural vibrancy, economic activity and destination appeal.

The Capes continues to attract investment, skilled workers and new residents seeking a combination of lifestyle, business opportunity and connectivity. Strong population growth and increasing demand for premium experiences are creating opportunities across a range of sectors and continuing to support economic diversification.

• Population growth and lifestyle migration – Continued growth in Busselton, Vasse, Dunsborough and Cowaramup is driving demand for housing, services, education, healthcare and community infrastructure, while expanding the regional workforce and customer base.
• Tourism and the visitor economy – Ongoing opportunities exist to strengthen year-round visitation, develop new experiences and expand business tourism, events and cultural programming.
• Creative industries and cultural infrastructure – Investment in cultural assets and creative industries is enhancing the region’s ability to attract talent, support local enterprise and diversify economic activity beyond traditional sectors.
• Aviation and market connectivity – Continued growth of interstate air services and associated infrastructure enhances access to domestic markets, supports business attraction and strengthens opportunities for tourism and trade.

The Capes is renowned for its combination of natural beauty, premium experiences and vibrant communities. These assets support a strong visitor economy while also helping attract residents, skilled workers, entrepreneurs and investment to the region.

• Margaret River wine region – Internationally recognised wineries, cellar doors and food experiences draw visitors from around the world, supporting tourism, hospitality, exports and regional brand recognition.
• Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin coastline – Beaches, surf breaks, coastal trails and marine environments create significant lifestyle and tourism appeal, attracting visitors, residents and investment to the region.
• Nature-based experiences and iconic landscapes – National parks, forests, caves, walking and mountain bike trails encourage repeat visitation, support tourism and hospitality businesses, and reinforces the Capes’ reputation as one of Australia’s iconic destinations.
• Events, arts and cultural experiences – A strong calendar of sporting, food, wine and cultural events helps drive visitation throughout the year, supports local businesses and reinforces the region’s reputation as a vibrant location for tourism and events.