Gippsland’s economy is predominantly natural resources and commodities based, with key industry sectors including agriculture, forestry, dairy and pastoral industries, fishing, and coal mining, oil and gas extraction and processing. Rich soils and high reliable rainfall mean Gippsland produces about a third of Victoria’s total dairy production. It is no surprise that Gippsland’s agribusiness sector is a significant employer in the region, with over a third of Gippsland’s business involved in agriculture and fishing. The aged and health care industries have also seen strong growth in recent years. The region’s workforce is skilled in advanced manufacturing, including aircraft manufacturing, steel fabrication, and precision engineering and maintenance.

The export economy of Gippsland is predominantly based on primary and secondary production, although many tertiary sectors have been growing, including Retail Trade and Tourism-related industries. The progressive nature of the region is reflected in its strong social infrastructure and thriving community groups.

Forecasting suggests over the next 10 years Gippsland will be the State’s third fastest growing regions with high quality urban and rural environments, opening up many opportunities for investment, production and employment.