Detailed 2016 Census data on employment, qualifications and population mobility was released last month, revealing coal mining and beef cattle farming are still the top industries of employment in the Central Highlands.
The statistics show that out of a population of 27,999 people, 14,239 reported being in the labour force.
Of these 64.8 % were employed full time and 23.7 % were employed part-time, compared to 70.7 % and 20.3 % in 2011.
In 2016, the main occupations were machinery operators and drivers, technicians and trades workers, managers and labourers.
The latest Census also revealed that most of the work force drive a car to work (59.1 %). Other common methods of travel were as a passenger in a car (6.1 %) and working from home (8.0 %).
The survey looked at the population’s qualifications as well, revealing of people aged 15 and over 16 % reported completing Year 12 as their highest level of education.
21.8 % had completed a Certificate III or IV, 10.4 % completed a Bachelor Degree level or above and 5.9 % had obtained an Advance Diploma or Diploma.
The latest information will be used to update the Central Highlands’ regional economic profile on REMPLAN, an online platform providing key demographic, economic and community data.
‘These statistics can be extremely useful for businesses, investors, not-for-profit organisations, or anyone with an interest in the dynamics of our region,’ he said.
‘REMPLAN offers unique insights into the opportunities, projections and challenges of the Highlands, and we are very fortunate to be able to offer this service to our community.’