qld.gov.au
Department of Primary Industries

The diversity of Queensland's regions is our greatest asset.

Across the state

Our regions span tropical, subtropical and temperate climates, from northern Queensland through to central and southern Queensland.

Our primary industries enjoy year-round production of a wide range of products and commodities, and contribute significantly to the economy and liveability of our regional communities.

Recreational and charter fishing provide opportunities for Queenslanders to enjoy our freshwater and marine environments, contributing over $350 million to our economy.

  • 376,000 people across the supply chain
  • 13% of all Queensland's workforce
  • 41,500 primary industry businesses
Map of Queensland showing 3 regions, and the sub-regions included in those groups. The Northern Queensland region is divided into Far North Queensland and North and Western Queensland. The Central Queensland region is divided into Central Queensland and Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday. The Southern Queensland region is divided into 3 sub-regions: Wide Bay Burnett, South East Queensland, and the Darling Downs and South West.
Map of Queensland: Northern Queensland includes: 1. Far North Queensland and 2. North and Western Queensland. Central Queensland includes 3. Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday, and 4. Central Queensland. Southern Queensland includes 5. Wide Bay Burnett, 6. South East Queensland, and 7. Darling Downs and South West.

Northern Queensland

The Northern region comprises:

  1. Far North Queensland
  2. North and Western Queensland.

It is characterised by tropical and dry-tropical landscapes and pristine waters.

From Cape York through to Townsville, it boasts highly productive fisheries, cropping, grazing and contributes almost 25% of Queensland's gross value of production.

Central Queensland

The Central region comprises:

  1. Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday
  2. Central Queensland.

It is renowned for its extensive grazing, cropping and intensive production systems.

It contributes almost 25% of Queensland's gross value of production and nearly 40% of beef output, 30% of sugarcane, and 10% of the state's horticulture production.

Southern Queensland

The Southern region comprises:

  1. Wide Bay Burnett
  2. South East Queensland
  3. Darling Downs and South West.

It is home to the state's capital city, Brisbane.

This region contributes more than 50% of Queensland's gross value of production. It is known for its fresh produce, native and plantation forestry, cropping, grazing, horticulture and fisheries, in addition to significant beef, wheat and cotton production.

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Last updated: 11 Aug 2025