The Central Highlands boasts a solid employment landscape with over 18,000 jobs available across various sectors. Key industries driving economic growth include farming and forestry, which employ a significant portion of the workforce, along with construction and hospitality.
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Region snapshot
By the numbers
Latest roles
Towns in Central Highlands
Across 160+ mastheads
Region snapshot
Population
23,542
Median age
47 yrs
Jobs in region
18,312
Median weekly rent
$225/wk
Median weekly mortgage
$240/wk
Median household income
$794/wk
Region size
9936.38 (Sq Kms)
Largest city
Ararat
Infrastructure
2
Airports
3
Hospitals
0
Universities
Housing
Industry mix
Population, housing, industry & infrastructure: ABS Census 2021 / regional data.
By the numbers
2 new roles this week· 5 in the last 30 days
Job types
Share of live roles by employment type.
Top employers
Most active employers hiring in-region.
No advertiser breakdown yet.
Talent in Central Highlands
Candidates active in-region · aggregate only.
Explore roles by industry
The Central Highlands classification breakdown as a browsable, photo-led grid — each tile opens that industry across Australia.
Latest roles
Action Steel
Action Steel is a growing, family-owned Australian business specialising in the design, manufacture and installation of agricultural steel buildings. We are looking for an experienced Master Scheduler to join our Oper…
AME Systems
Tender & Contract ManagerDefence | Aerospace | Advanced Manufacturing Ararat, Victoria | Permanent Full-Time Take ownership of complex tenders, commercial contracts and strategic opportunities across Defence, Aerospac…
Mastercare Cleaning
Retail/Commercial Cleaner Needed for Ararat - VIC We are currently looking for a Retail/Commercial Cleaner for an immediate start Location > Ararat - VIC Days Per Week > 2 days Tuesday & Friday 07.00 am - 09.00 am Wee…
Grampians Health
Consultant Anaesthetist – Stawell Campus Full-time positions OR Sessional positions (multiple positions) About The Role The Consultant Anaesthetist will provide clinical anaesthetic services, including perioperative c…
Thomas Foods International
Thomas Foods International (TFI) is a 100% Australian-owned and operated company with a clear mission: to be the supplier of choice for premium Australian lamb, beef, and processing co-products. With a reputation buil…
Grampians Health
Fixed Term Full Time (Until December 2026) | 40 hours per week with a monthly ADO $71.91 per hour (NM11) About The Role An exciting fixed-term opportunity is available for a Nurse Unit Manager to join our Community Se…
Living & working
A closer look at the people, housing, jobs, industry and services that shape Central Highlands.
The total number of jobs in the Central Highlands stands at 18,312, offering a healthy job-to-population ratio. The median weekly personal income of $670 demonstrates the potential for sustainable living within the region.
The region accommodates 10,084 households, with an average size of 2 individuals. Housing options range from separate houses to caravans, while median rent costs are $225 per week, making housing relatively affordable.
With an estimated population of 23,542, the Central Highlands has a median age of 47, showcasing a mature demographic. The working-age population, representing over half of residents, includes 455 individuals identifying as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.
The Central Highlands is home to approximately 2,345 businesses, with the agricultural sector leading in economic activity, particularly in farming and forestry. Other notable industries include retail, hospitality, and construction, which contribute significantly to the region's employment landscape.
The Central Highlands is served by 3 hospitals and two regional airports, facilitating accessibility to essential healthcare and transport options. While there are no universities, vocational training opportunities are available to support local workforce development.
