Retail trade - adding value, vibrancy and identity to the region

The retail sector across the Bathurst Region is a vibrant mix of national and independent retailers, from big box national traders through to unique, one-off local specialities.

The Bathurst Region has a thriving retail sector that serves not only Bathurst but the wider Central West Region and growing tourism sector. The total catchment area for Bathurst is over 135,000 people and includes the nearby areas of Lithgow, Blayney, Oberon, Orange and Cabonne. This is in addition to the 1 million visitors who come to the Bathurst Region every year, with the sector employing over 2,100 persons.

A wide range of national brands have representation in Bathurst, such as major discount department store chains (Big W, Kmart), national supermarkets and food specialists (Woolworths, Coles, IGA, Harris Farm), large format retailers (Bunnings, Officeworks, Harvey Norman, The Good Guys, Fantastic Furniture, Dan Murphy’s and Spotlight to name a few) and a large variety of specialist national retailers.

Complementing this national retail mix are a variety of locally owned retail stores, offering high quality customer service and a unique product range. These home-grown retailers sell everything from locally grown fresh food, delicious dine-in options, unique homewares and clothing, quality furniture and so much more. The Bathurst Region also has a strong services sector, ranging from beauticians and hairdressers, legal and financial services, medical and allied health services, and mechanical repairs just to name a few.

The Bathurst Region has attracted the attention of restaurateur and celebrity chef, Matt Moran, who has recently purchased the historic Rockley Pub in Rockley Village to create a unique dining experience at the stunning venue.

The retail sector across the Bathurst Region has grown in line with population growth over the past five years. The future population growth planned for the region, coupled with the growing tourism market, will continue to drive opportunities for retailing in the Bathurst Region.