Make the Move to the Burdekin
Nestled in the heart of North Queensland, the Burdekin Shire offers a unique blend of relaxed coastal living, vibrant community spirit and boundless opportunities. Whether you're seeking a fresh start, a place to raise a family or a lifestyle change away from the hustle and bustle, the Burdekin welcomes you with open arms.
Step into the Burdekin Shire and enjoy rural charm with modern convenience. This is the lifestyle you're being waiting for.
Education and Childcare
Families love the Burdekin for its excellent schools, quality childcare, and abundance of recreational activities. With playgrounds, sporting clubs, and community events throughout the year, children grow up active, engaged, and supported. The Burdekin boasts a thriving education sector featuring 9 registered early childhood education and care services, 19 private and public schools and TAFE Burdekin.
- Find Childcare.
- Find a School including primary, secondary, independent, catholic and public schools.
- TAFE Burdekin offers courses designed to meet the needs to the local community. Study areas include early childhood education and care, first aid, hairdressing, and engineering courses specialising in mechanical trades, fitting and turning, boiler making, and metal fabrication.
Housing and Real Estate
Looking for the perfect place to call home? The Burdekin offers a variety of housing options to suit every lifestyle and budget. Whether you're buying, renting, building or renovating, there's a property that's right just for you.
The Burdekin's real estate agents and property managers are passionate locals who understand the lifestyle benefits of living in the region. They’re ready to help you find a home that fits your needs and welcomes you into the community.
One of the unique advantages of living in the Burdekin is the region's abundant water supply, supported by the Burdekin River and one of Australia's largest underground aquifers. Unlike many parts of the country facing water restrictions, Burdekin residents enjoy the freedom to maintain green lawns, vibrant gardens and even backyard veggie patches all year-round. This water security not only enhances lifestyle but also adds value to your property and peace of mind to your everyday living.
Employment Opportunities
The Burdekin is a powerhouse of agriculture, particularly known for its thriving sugarcane industry, but opportunities extend far beyond the farm. From health care and education to trades, tourism, and small business, the region supports a diverse and growing economy. Whether you're looking to advance your career or start a new venture, the Burdekin is a place where ambition is nurtured.
Healthcare and Wellbeing
The Burdekin Shire provides access to a range of healthcare services, including public and private medical facilities, allied health professionals, mental health support, and aged care services.
The Ayr Health Service is a 28-bed public hospital offering general medical, surgical, emergency and obstetric services. It also provides allied health services such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, oral health, and medical imaging.
The Burdekin has a number of private GP clinics, dental clinics, optometrists and pharmacies, and a variety of allied health providers such as psychologists, dietitians and physiotherapists.
Lifestyle and Community
The Burdekin is more than just a place to live; it's a place to belong. With a relaxed pace, friendly neighbourhoods and access to nature, it's a region where people feel at home and part of something bigger.
Community spirit is at the heart of the Burdekin. The region is home to a wide variety of sporting clubs, social groups, and special interest organisations that welcome new members and encourage participation. From football and netball to gardening, arts, and volunteering, there are opportunities for all ages and interests.
Recreational facilities, parks, walking trails, and beaches offer plenty of options for staying active and enjoying the outdoors. Combined with quality amenities, local events, and a strong sense of belonging, the Burdekin lifestyle is one that supports wellbeing and connection.
To explore the region’s natural attractions, destination events, and things to do, visit the Visit Burdekin website.
Economy
The Burdekin is one of Australia’s most productive agricultural regions, producing over 8 million tonnes of sugarcane annually. The economy is supported by strong sectors in sugar production, horticulture, aquaculture, manufacturing, and renewable energy. The region benefits from reliable water sources, including the Burdekin River and one of Australia’s largest underground aquifers, making it highly drought resistant. Emerging industries such as solar energy and bio innovation are contributing to economic diversification, alongside growing investment in tourism and small business development.
- Population: 17,020
- GRP: $1.5B
- Total Employment: 8,721
Burdekin Shire Council supports economic growth through infrastructure planning, business support programs, and partnerships with industry, government, and education providers. Council's Economic Development Team welcomes new business enquiries and offers support for investment, relocation, and development. Contact Council's Economic Development Team on (07) 4783 9800 or via email at economic@burdekin.qld.gov.au.
Hear from the Locals
Discover what makes the Burdekin special through the eyes of those who've made the move and now call the region home. From young families and professionals to retirees and entrepreneurs, these locals share their experiences of settling into the community, enjoying the lifestyle and finding opportunity in the Burdekin.
Watch the videos to see how life in the Burdekin could be the change you've been looking for.