Business sector in Canberra
Canberra is home to over 36,000 private sector businesses, which contribute significantly to the local economy and generate 64 per cent of jobs in the ACT. We believe that the future prosperity of our region is built on the success of business. The Chamber provides the resources, connections, and advocacy they need to thrive.
See key stats, read our Business in Canberra report, and listen to podcast episodes discussing business performance in Canberra.
How big is the business sector in the ACT?
Over recent decades Canberra has developed from a city focused on supporting the public sector to one with a far more diverse economic base. Almost two thirds of Canberra’s jobs are now in private businesses.
36,315
private sector businesses in the ACT
2/3
jobs are in the private sector
4.3%
economic growth in 2023 compared to 2022
56%
of businesses in ACT have no employees
3%
of ACT businesses employ more than 20 people
91%
have an annual turnover of less than $2 million
Canberra punches above its weight
Our Business in Canberra report provides a snapshot of the latest statistics and information on business here in the Nation’s Capital. You'll learn about Canberra's labour force and the ACT economy.
2024 Report
Business in Canberra
Gross State Product Per Capita is the third highest of the states and territories (behind Western Australia and Northern Territory). Average weekly earnings are the highest in Australia, Gross State Product grew 4.3 per cent in 2023, and the number of jobs and businesses in ACT also increased over the past 12 months.
This is positive, but we must ensure that this growth is sustained by the private sector, which is where our future prosperity lies. We must continue to look for ways to improve the environment for business in the ACT to ensure that our full potential is realised. Canberra can and should be the best place in Australia to do business, and one of the most exciting and vibrant capital cities in the world.
The Canberra Business Podcast
In these episodes our guests share insights into the challenges and opportunities facing Canberra business owners. We discuss the local economy's current state, future potential and infrastructure development.
ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr on Economic Growth, Infastructure, and Political Longevity
Chief Minister Andrew Barr offers candid insights into the challenges and opportunities facing Canberra in this wide-ranging conversation about economic growth, budget pressures, and infrastructure development.
Beyond 9-to-5 Creating an 18-7 City Experience in Canberra
Craig Gillman believes he might have the best job in ACT government, and after listening to his vision for Canberra's city center, you might agree. As CEO of the City Renewal Authority, Gillman is at the forefront of transforming the capital's urban core into something truly dynamic, inclusive, and competitive.
Challenges and Opportunities in Canberra's Economic Landscape
Join us for an enlightening conversation with Andrew Sykes, a seasoned partner at RSM Australia. From shifts in consumer behavior to the ripple effects of changes in government employment, we've got a lot to unpack about the local economy's current state and future potential.
Cultivating Business Success and Community in Canberra
In this engaging discussion, Archie sheds light on Canberra's unique character, often likened to a "big country town," where community reputation and support are pivotal for business success. We confront the misconception of businesses as impersonal entities, emphasizing the human side of business and the challenges small business owners face.
Canberra's Tourism Vision for the Future
Discover how Canberra plans to become an even more enticing destination as we chat with Dr. David Marshall AM, Chair of the Canberra Region Tourism Leaders Forum. He makes a compelling case for how strategic tourism policy can transform the local economy.
Get involved in Canberra’s business community
There’s a range of ways you can get involved in the work of the Canberra Business Chamber. Our regular events help you connect, network, learn and be inspired!
Members have the opportunity to actively shape Canberra’s business landscape and influence decisions. You can do this by joining a Special Interest Group and helping to drive meaningful change.
Share your insights by participating in the Chamber’s quarterly Canberra Business Beat Survey, and contribute your feedback to help shape our advocacy platform.