Business Climate scorecard

The City invites local businesses each year to participate in the Business Climate Scorecard Survey to gather insights into the economic landscape, challenges, and opportunities shaping the region. This feedback informs strategies to support business growth, enhance local services, and improve economic conditions.

The 2024 Business Scorecard engaged nearly 150 businesses across industries including mining, construction, retail, hospitality and healthcare, providing valuable feedback on local services, infrastructure and business conditions.

Key findings from the surveys include:

• 55% of Karratha businesses reported experiencing higher demand and 46% experienced revenue growth.
• 70% of businesses indicated they plan to stay for at least three years, while only 5% anticipate leaving.
• 32% are struggle with staffing as they compete with high mining sector wages.
• 40% say worker housing shortages are severely impacting business operations.
• 25% of businesses indicate cost-of-living pressures, including rent, freight and utilities.
• Only 37% of businesses source at least 40% of goods locally, down from 53% in 2022.
• 16% report a severe impact due to a lack of affordable business premises.

These findings show key challenges for local businesses within the City, including workforce shortages and housing constraints, the high costs of doing business, limited access to commercial space, low awareness and marketing support and Declining local procurement opportunities.

What we have in place

• Housing Action Plan (Project Dorothy): Advocates for housing solutions, with six development projects advancing.
• Pilbara DAMA Program: Supports businesses in recruiting overseas workers to fill labour shortages.
• Service Worker Accommodation Scheme: Assists businesses in securing housing for essential workers.
• Business Grants: The City helps build and support a diverse, sustainable and thriving local economy by offering a variety of grants and funding.
  • Take Your Business Online Grant: $82,987 in funding to enhance digital presence.
  • Economic Development Grant: over $147,000 awarded for business innovation.
  • Major Events Sponsorship Program: over $182,000 provided to support regional events.

Business Development Support Grant: $335,000 allocated for supporting business development organisations that supports our local business.

Were too next

The City of Karratha is committed to shaping the future of business by actively supporting local enterprises. This includes increasing the availability of workforce housing, expanding commercial and industrial space, and offering grants and business development programs. The City also focuses on enhancing workforce attraction and retention strategies while strengthening local procurement and supply chains to ensure a sustainable and thriving business environment.