The Shire of Flinders has reported record investment in the township of Hughenden, with new data from the Australian Business Register (ABR) indicating a record number of new businesses in the region.
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the Flinders Shire postcode of 4821 saw 41 new businesses register in 2020, which jumped to 50 in 2021 – a huge 47 per cent increase from the pre-pandemic year of 2019.
This compares to just 24 new businesses registered five years before in 2014; which is less than half of the 2021 figures.
As of 5 September 734 businesses are now active in the Flinders Shire.
This news comes just two weeks after Flinders Shire Council revealed a significant increase in tourist numbers into the region, with an extra 6,500 people visiting in 2021-2022 compared to pre-COVID data.
Flinders Shire Council Mayor, Jane McNamara, said the increase in new businesses was yet more positive news for the ever-growing region.
“I’m thrilled to see that more new businesses than ever are opening up in the Flinders Shire, and even more impressive is that these record numbers came despite the COVID pandemic,” Mayor McNamara said.
“Some of the new businesses which have recently opened include three new Airbnbs, a coffee van, a number of trade and mechanical services, and two new boutique shops on Brodie Street.
“We’ve noticed new investments and businesses are interested in the areas of tourism, hospitality and the service industry.
“It feels like we’re in the middle of a business boom in the Shire, and it’s a great job by so many people to have Hughenden and surrounds thriving once again.
“A strong economy is a strong indicator of a region which is moving in the right direction, and the number of new businesses opening up suggests we’re getting it right.
“It’s been a great team effort by the Council and the community so far, but we’ve still got big plans for the future we want to achieve.”
Feature Image: Hughenden local Jodie Coward recently opened her new Coward and Co retail boutique store. Image: Flinders Shire Council.
