Agribusiness and more shaping Penrith’s rural economy

Penrith’s diverse local economy includes a range of industries that make use of the significant rural lands located in our City.

With increased connectivity due to the future Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport and associated infrastructure, many of Penrith’s rural industries can take advantage of the export and tourism opportunities that it will bring.

The scope of Penrith’s rural economy has been explored in the Penrith Rural Land Use and Economic Analysis Study.

The study found Penrith’s agricultural sector is estimated to have a value added of $69.5 million. The top five agricultural commodities produced in Penrith are eggs, poultry meat, vegetables, flowers and turf, which are among the main agricultural commodities produced in the Greater Sydney region. Penrith is particularly strong in egg production, accounting for 17.6% of all of NSW’s eggs.

Whilst the construction of the Western Sydney Airport to Penrith’s south will see the transformation of some rural areas into more urbanised spaces, it will also provide new opportunities for innovation in agriculture. The Agribusiness Precinct within the Western Sydney Aerotropolis will support the continued production of high-quality fresh produce as well as pre-prepared consumer foods. Its location within the aerotropolis provides convenient access to local and global markets.

The construction industry, one of the biggest industries in Penrith, is also identified in the study as a strong economic driver in the City’s rural lands. A leading employing industry of those living in rural areas of Penrith, construction companies make use of the larger lot sizes for storing vehicles as well as the close proximity to major arterial roads.

According to the study, rural tourism in Penrith consists of activities such as farm stay accommodation, horse riding and farm gate sales. With an increase in visitors expected once the Western Sydney Airport opens in 2026, this provides an opportunity for existing rural landholders as well as astute businesses to take advantage of the future market potential in this space.

To read the Penrith Rural Land Use and Economic Analysis Study in full, or to learn more about Council’s strategic focus on Penrith’s rural lands visit https://yoursaypenrith.com.au/rural-lands-strategy