Cockburn continues to stand out as one of Western Australia’s leading places to start and grow a business, with new data showing the City added more than 1,600 businesses over the past five years.
Figures released by the Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC), reveal more than 30,000 new sole traders and small businesses were established across WA between 2020 and 2025. Among local governments across the State, Cockburn ranked in the top tier for business growth – a sign of the area’s strong economy, growing population and reputation as a place where businesses can thrive.
As one of Perth’s fastest-growing regions, Cockburn is attracting new residents, young families, skilled workers and migrants who are choosing to build their lives in the area.
Where population grows, businesses follow.
More people mean greater demand for local services, trades, retail, hospitality, health care, professional services and innovative new business offerings. Increasingly, entrepreneurs are deciding to launch businesses in the communities where they live, creating jobs, supporting local supply chains and strengthening neighbourhood centres.
According to WA Small Business Commissioner Saj Abdoolakhan, the figures highlight the close connection between population growth and business creation. “The City of Cockburn has built a reputation as an innovation and industry hub, offering businesses access to world-class infrastructure, strategic transport connections and a collaborative environment that supports long-term success.”
Why businesses are choosing Cockburn
Cockburn offers a unique combination of advantages for business owners:
- Strategic access to major transport networks
- Proximity to the Kwinana Industrial Area and Fremantle Port
- Growing commercial and industrial precincts
- A skilled and expanding workforce
- Strong population growth and consumer demand
- Access to business support programs and networks
These strengths have helped establish Cockburn as a recognised centre for innovation, industry and entrepreneurship in Western Australia. The addition of more than 1,600 businesses in just five years demonstrates the confidence business owners have in Cockburn as a place to invest, innovate and grow.
Supporting our small business community
The City of Cockburn is proud to be part of the SBDC’s Small Business Friendly Local Government Alliance, a network of councils committed to supporting small business through a collaborative and business-friendly approach.
Whether businesses are just starting out or looking to expand, support is available through local programs, networking opportunities and advisory services.
The SBDC also provides a range of free services, including one-on-one business advice, workshops, practical business resources and dispute resolution support to help businesses navigate each stage of their journey.
Looking ahead
The latest figures are another reminder that Cockburn is not only growing in population – it is growing in ambition, investment and enterprise. As more businesses choose to call Cockburn home, the City is well positioned to remain one of Western Australia’s most dynamic places to do business.
Thinking about starting or growing a business in Cockburn? Explore local business support, programs and resources at
cockburn.wa.gov.au/business.