16 Oct 2023 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3324.266
Although there will be stresses and strains being experienced in some sectors of the economy as a result of the Reserve Bank's efforts to dampen the economy with higher interest rates and cumulative inflation over the past three years will be affecting family budgets, latest data available indicates that the fundamentals remain solid.
20 Sep 2023 Other CE Ref .267
Principal of Cummings Economics, Bill Cummings, has been honoured by Central Queensland University with the granting of Honorary Doctorate in Economics. Mr Cummings has also accepted an invitation to be an Honorary Research Fellow of the Centre for International Trade and Business in Asia (CITBA) at James Cook University.
04 Sep 2023 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3500C.265
Cairns based regional business economist, Bill Cummings, has welcomed the commencement of James Cook University medical teaching facilities on the Sheridan Street site adjacent to the Cairns Hospital.
01 Sep 2023 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3500B.264
A drive over Peninsula roads carried out in July/August 2023 indicated the Peninsula Developmental Road (PDR) from the Lakeland turnoff to Weipa is now 66% sealed. Only 202km of the 590km route remains unsealed.
06 Jul 2023 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3324.261
REVISED FIGURES MORE POSITIVE - Figures available last month gave indications that Reserve Bank efforts to dampen the economy may have been starting to show up in the regional economy. Revised information, especially on numbers receiving unemployment benefits and other more recent data on airport passenger numbers and interstate migration into Queensland, indicates a more positive picture.
03 Jul 2023 Media Article CE Ref J3469.262
The year 2023 will see Australia's Tropical NorthEast regions (based on Cairns, Townsville, Mackay and Rockhampton, see map), reach population milestones. While it is time to reflect on past achievements, it's also important to reflect on recent trends and future challenges facing the area.
05 Jun 2023 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3324B.260
Rental vacancy rates have fallen to very low levels in Cairns. Contributing to this has been the sharp jump-up in population growth in the post-COVID period. However, Cairns is not alone in recording a rental housing shortage. This note provides charts to help understand the factors behind the nation-wide and local rental housing shortages.
01 Jun 2023 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3324A.258
EARLY INDICATIONS OF TIGHTENING IMPACTS - The regional economy is showing some signs that the Reserve Bank's actions to slow the economy are having an effect with some rise in numbers on unemployment benefits, patchiness in single house dwelling approvals and some evidence that domestic airborne visitation is down on last year.
02 May 2023 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3465.257
Australia's great Tropical NorthEast that accounts for 73% of the area of the State of QLD and covers an area equivalent to the combined areas of the States of New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania and the main population parts of South Australia (see Map 1), has reached a major milestone.
27 Apr 2023 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3324.255
Despite the easing of the flush of activity that took place post-Covid and despite the impact of the Reserve Bank's moves to curb inflationary pressures, the indications are that the regional economy is holding up well at this point in time.
24 Feb 2023 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3324.253
The indications are that the flush of activity that took place post-COVID is easing as the spike in interstate migration into Queensland eases and as Reserve Bank moves to curb inflationary pressures start biting.
01 Dec 2022 Media Article CE Ref J3447.251
Back in the 1950s and 1960s, it was common to describe the Australian economy as, “Riding on the sheep’s back”. At that time, pastoral industry exports of wool and meats were accounting for over half of the value of Australia’s exports. All that has changed. Today, it can be claimed that the Australian economy is “Riding on the North’s back”.
26 Oct 2022 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3324.250
SOME MIXED SIGNALS While airport passenger numbers continue to rise compared with pre-Covid (2019) and Council’s single residential building approvals moderate again, there are some mild mixed signals in the employment series.
21 Mar 2022 Media Article CE Ref J3426.234
The commitment by Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce, of funding for the completion of sealing of the Outback Way, is a nation building initiative that will be of great benefit for Australia’s Pacific North East Regions.
21 Feb 2022 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3324.232
January data indicates that while tourism is still down on the pre-Covid levels, the overall level of activity in the regional economy has held up and appears to have shown growth over the previous twelve months.
07 Dec 2021 Media Article CE Ref J3401.230
Article contributed to CONNECT CAIRNS MAGAZINE not only highlights Cairns Airport and Cairns region's leading role in aviation in the north but the region now leads in aviation employment in all of regional Australia outside the major metropolitan centres. It also highlights the important role the general aviation and aircraft maintenance and services sector plays in the region's economy.
28 Sep 2021 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3392.227
This research paper prepared for Cairns Regional Council traces four major 'shocks' that have occurred to tourism in the Cairns region over the past forty years - what caused them and how the sector recovered.
22 Sep 2021 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3324.224
August saw the Covid restrictions in NSW, VIC and SE-QLD continue to impact the Cairns region with airport domestic passenger numbers continuing to contract and a fall continuing in the Single Touch Payroll Employment Index.
31 Aug 2021 Media Article CE Ref J3389.226
Article contributed to CONNECT CAIRNS MAGAZINE that identifies the major 'bottlenecks' holding back growth of the Cairns regional economy and the importance of removing these bottlenecks in the process of post-Covid recovery.
25 Aug 2021 Cummings Economics Report CE Ref J3359.225
This research study commissioned by Cairns Skills Aviation Centre (CSAC) with support of Cairns Regional Council provides an economic profile of the airport's general aviation sector located on the western side of the airport.
05 Jul 2021 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3386.221
After a number of years of figures well below State regional averages on a per capita basis, QLD's budgeted capital expenditure for the Cairns region 2021-22 has pushed above equivalent regional averages. However, on regional averages over the past eight (8) years, the region is still owed about $1Billion.
02 Jul 2021 Cairns Economy Presentation CE Ref J3352.220
The Presentation to the BEMAS Conference (organised by the Centre for International Trade & Business in Asia (CITBA) at JCU), looks at the factors that have led to Cairns' growth from a population of 16,400 recorded in Census 1947 to over 160,000 today and to the city passing seven (7) other regional cities in population since 1976.
31 May 2021 Media Article CE Ref J3381A.218
Article contributed to CONNECT CAIRNS MAGAZINE that highlights the need for major investment in road infrastructure that connects Cairns to the rest of the region and to the rest of Australia. It highlights the importance of completing currently unsealed links along a direct route to Melbourne and Adelaide with 700 plus km of distance saving for freight, business and visitor travel.
10 May 2021 Cummings Economics Report CE Ref J2721.215
NORTHERN AUSTRALIA - Initial Challenges, Historical Development, Current Progress and Future Prospects - Release of a submission, originally prepared in 2014 and submitted to the Pivot North Inquiry into the development of northern Australia. This comprehensive 191-page submission sets out seven fields of action to promote the development of northern Australia relating to: Improved Technology Relating to the Tropics; Improved Governance Structures; Upgraded Infrastructure; Improving Concepts & Images of the Tropics; Indigenous Progress; Adaption of National Economic & Industry Policies less damaging to the North's Progress; Improved International Engagement, especially with the Near North.
08 Apr 2021 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3378.211
Latest Australian Bureau of Statistics estimates of residential population for 2020 indicates that northern Australia's most populous region based on Cairns is on the cusp of passing a landmark of 300,000 population.
30 Mar 2021 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3150.210
This Statistical Note indicates that although the largest in population in the north, the Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service receives less funding from the State Government.
28 Mar 2021 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3324.209
Reviews latest available information on JobSeeker, JobKeeper, Single Touch Payroll Employment and Airport Passenger Statistics for Cairns and the Cairns Region. Information available indicates that activities remain well below pre-Covid 2019 levels.
08 Mar 2021 Media Article CE Ref J3371.208
We should never fail to recognise that in a region such as this, the major driver of long-term economic growth has been and will continue to be our success in increasing earnings from the rest of Australia and the world. However, it is also important to recognise the role sectors like the creative arts and entertainment industries play in achieving progress.
28 Feb 2021 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3324.207
Reviews latest available information on JobSeeker, JobKeeper, Single Touch Payroll Employment and Airport Passenger Statistics for Cairns and the Cairns Region. It indicates that the upward trend in recovery since May had stalled well below full recovery with Xmas/New Year and seasonal conditions having an influence.
05 Dec 2020 Other CE Ref J3354.202
Let's face it, we've never been able to rely completely on Brisbane. Yes, get what we can out of Brisbane but our destiny lies in our own hands. It's time to toughen up and put our own money up to chart our own course across all developmental opportunities. And remember, that we achieve most when the whole region, not just Cairns, comes together to pool its resources and effort - local governments, local businesses, local industries, local people.
01 Dec 2020 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3353.200
The 2020-21 Queensland State Budget has seen a substantial increase in capital expenditure allocated to the Cairns SA4 region compared with previous years. However, the table in the Statistical Note indicates that this simply brings expenditure per capita up to just above average levels for regional areas. On regional averages, the State Government still owes the region about $1bn.
16 Nov 2020 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3324.199
Numbers in JobSeeker benefits continue the trend since May to decline. However, the Single Touch Payroll Jobs Index indicated that the upward trend in number in jobs in the region may have stalled with the mild adjustments in JobKeeper conditions after end September.
09 Nov 2020 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3349.198
DWELLING APPROVALS 2020-21 OFF TO A FLYING START - Dwelling approvals across the north were down in 2019-20 but with the Cairns/TNQ region leading. However, they have been off to a flying start in Sep Qtr 2020 under the influence of the Commonwealth Government's COVID support incentives.
27 Oct 2020 Other CE Ref J3340.197
Seeks to interpret the likely impacts of the 2020-2021 budget on the Cairns regional economy. It provides a simple "rule of thumb" to help estimate how massive nationwide government support schemes are likely to impact on the region's economy.
26 Oct 2020 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3324.190
Gives information that JobSeeker unemployment numbers continued to come down in September but again only marginally. Single Touch Payroll series has been continuing to recover slowly but slipped back at end Sep/early Oct as JobKeeper support has moderated.
01 Sep 2020 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3327.194
Research Paper submitted to the Commonwealth Review of the REEF 2050 PLAN pointing out that the value of tourism related to the reef is NOT the total value of tourism in the regions fronting the reef, as portrayed in commonly used statistics. Only about 2.5 million a year visit the reef compared with about 9 million visitors to the Reef Regions. Value of actual reef related tourism is small compared with other major industries and the economy of the Reef Regions overall.
25 Aug 2020 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3324.186
Gives information that JobSeeker unemployment numbers continued to come down in July but only marginally. Single Touch Payroll series has been continuing to recover slowly to be down only about 5% on the commencement of the series in mid-March.
15 Aug 2020 Cummings Economics Report CE Ref J3275.192
A Report prepared for Cairns Regional Council and Study Cairns on the pre-Covid value of the International Education Sector indicating that it was bringing into the region's economy of the order of $130M a year.
23 Jul 2020 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3324.184
Gives information that JobSeeker unemployment numbers plateaued in June and came down slightly in the Cairns SA4 region. A new ABS series on payrolls indicated that in the Cairns region there was a fall of about 11% in April compared to March.
31 Dec 2019 Cummings Economics Report CE Ref J2938A&B.201
This detailed study sets out the findings from a detailed Benefit Cost & Economic Impact Analysis of the proposed sealing of the last 28km unsealed section of the coast road linking Cairns to Cooktown. Upgrading envisaged involves sealing on the existing alignment plus substantial safety expenditure on currently steep sections of the road. Benefits include: Substantial savings in maintenance costs; Substantial improvements in environmental impacts; A substantial saving for some travelers in cost and travel times to and from Wujal Wujal & Cooktown; A substantial increase in visitor numbers to Wujal Wujal & Cooktown; A substantial additional revenue to the Daintree Ferry; A substantial addition to the region's tourism offerings of attractions.
12 Nov 2019 Media Article CE Ref J3284.17
Article prepared for magazine Cairns Connect November Issue Page 22.
12 Aug 2019 Media Article CE Ref J3266.18
Article prepared for magazine Cairns Connect August Issue Page 22
06 Jun 2019 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3259.24
The Queensland Budget 2019-20 contained a major 14% rise in capital expenditure over the previous year. However, it was mostly in the Greater Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast area and there was a net decline in regional Queensland. Although there was a strong rise in the Cairns region, it only brought the region up from previous very low per capita levels for five years to about average per capita levels for regional areas. Analysis of capital expenditure in the Cairns SA4 region over the past six budgets indicates a cumulative deficit of over $1BN on regional per capita averages.
15 May 2019 Media Article CE Ref J3182.28
This article sets out the wider and local influences on the Cairns region's economic prospects and likely performance in 2019. It records that the region has many positive underlying factors leading to its long-term growth but records some negative factors currently influencing performance. Cairns Connect magazine May Issue Page 22
15 May 2019 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3256.204
This preliminary statistical note throws light on the potential impacts of losses of Cathay's flights to Cairns following the loss of Hong Kong airlines last year and suspension of China Southern flights until October.
24 Apr 2019 Media Article CE Ref J3245.25
Over the past year, the Cairns region stretching west to the Northern Territory border and north to the Papua New Guinea border has continued to be the largest in population and fastest growing region in northern Australia.
Article prepared for Cairns Chamber of Commerce Annual Publication.
16 Apr 2019 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3205.26
Bill Cummings presented the results of a research paper to the inaugural conference of the NORTH QUEENSLAND CIVIL CONSTRUCTION ASSOCIATION - Cairns 6th April 2019, indicating that with "flow-on" effects, the construction sector supported of the order of 18% of economic activity and employment from the Mackay region northwards.
01 Apr 2019 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3243.29
This series of three Research Notes were prepared for Tourism Tropical North Queensland.
Each paper sets out significant findings as well as detailed charts, tables and analysis.
16 Mar 2019 Cummings Economics Report CE Ref J3210.30
There has been sporadic controversy about the Queensland Government's long-term population projections in regional Queensland. This paper reviews regional projections against what actually happened.
The research indicates that economic volatility has made projections difficult. There have been some large over estimations, especially of those regions heavily affected by mining based on Rockhampton, Mackay and Townsville, and for the Outback region, but comparative under estimation in the Cairns region. The Cairns and Wide Bay regions have consistently led growth in regional areas and it seems likely that the latest projections for the Cairns region in relation to other regional areas will prove to be an under estimate.
15 Mar 2019 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3246.183
The statistical note indicates that population growth across northern Australia in 2017-18 was down. The Cairns region was down marginally and below long-term trends but still leading the way.
12 Feb 2019 Media Article CE Ref J3266.40
Article prepared for magazine Cairns Connect February Issue Page 22.
06 Feb 2019 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3080.44
These papers again highlight the comparatively low level of Commonwealth and State Government expenditure in the North.
11 Sep 2018 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3142.42
These four Statistical Notes address:
Each paper sets out significant findings as well as detailed charts, tables and analysis.
17 Jul 2018 Cairns Economy Presentation CE Ref RefJ3171.49
Bill Cummings presented his annual review of the region's economy to the Cairns Chamber of Commerce on 24th July 2018.
28 Jun 2018 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3168.51
This note analyses capital spending allocation in the State budget for 2018-19 by regions and indicates that although up marginally on 2017-18, the allocation for Cairns and immediate surrounding regions renders very low.
27 Jun 2018 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3166.46
This note clarifies the extent to which there is a drift to part-time employment in the Cairns Local Government Area. It identifies that while the main reason is the higher part-time employment of females and a higher proportion of females in the workforce, a small increase in the lower proportion of males in part-time employment is evident.
12 Jun 2018 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3150.47
This note analyses data available from the 2016 Census and indicates that among the five Australian cities in the population range 100,000 to 200,000 (Hobart, Townsville, Cairns, Toowoomba, Darwin and Ballarat), in university student numbers and employment, Cairns ranks last, well below all the others and in per capita employment, Cairns was less than half.
14 May 2018 Cummings Economics Report CE Ref J3131.50
Papers prepared for Cairns Regional Council sets out how the Cairns region has led long-term population growth across the North and in regional Queensland and projects forward to 2050. Importantly, the papers explain why this has happened.
20 Nov 2017 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3118.53
A proposal mooted to put community facilities, this time in the form of the proposed extension of the Convention Centre, into the Buffer Zone of the Cairns Seaport "Working Port" rather than other alternatives has raised the question again of the value of trade and jobs accounted for by the general cargo wharves that would potentially be negatively affected.
14 Nov 2017 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3114B.3
This note analyses Census 2016 workforce data which indicates:
08 Nov 2017 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3114A.54
The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Labour Force Series is notoriously inaccurate in providing an indication of employment/unemployment levels and trends at a regional level.
The recent availability of 2016 Census Labour Force data gives an opportunity to check on reliability of the ABS Labour Force Series. The availability of data on registered unemployed receiving unemployment benefits also gives an opportunity to check reliability of movements indicated by the ABS Labour Force Series over the last 12 months.
The analysis in the first note clearly indicates that:
The dramatic fall in numbers unemployed showed by the ABS series over the last 12 months is not borne out by figures for registered unemployed on unemployment benefits that actually rose slightly over the same period.
10 Oct 2017 Cummings Economics Report CE Ref J2998.4
Compass Research carried out surveys of businesses on the question over the period July to early October 2017 in the four representative regional districts of Queensland.
Copies of the resulting reports including an overall report can be accessed by checking on www.qeun.com.au
26 Jul 2017 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J3090.6
Analysis of intercensal population growth by usual place of residence indicated that over the period 2011 to 2016 the long-term pattern in regional Queensland continued with the Cairns/TNQ leading in growth followed by Wide Bay, and across the North the Cairns/TNQ region leading followed by the Northern Territory.
17 Mar 2017 Cairns Economy Presentation CE Ref J3059.181
Address to the CAIRNS FORUM FOR BUSINESS GROWTH (F4BG) outlining how the Cains Economy has been heavily influenced and damaged by decisions at national and state levels affecting fiscal and monetary policy, the Australian dollar and government spending levels in the region.
15 Nov 2016 Cairns Economy Presentation CE Ref J3028.12
A Review of the Cairns Economy provided to the Cairns Chamber of Commerce
17 Jul 2016 Cairns Economy Presentation CE Ref J2992.56
Bill Cummings presented his annual review of the economy to the Cairns Chamber of Commerce on 26th July 2016.
27 Jun 2016 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J2909.57
This note analyses the Queensland budget capital expenditure by regions (Statistical Area Level 4). It indicates that again the Cairns region had the lowest per capita spending outside of Greater Brisbane area and that, far from being a budget for regional Queensland, the increase in 2016-17 on 2015-16 was 12.9% for Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast compared with regional Queensland 4.5%.
10 Apr 2016 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J2969.58
Information Note Comment for Cairns Post.
China has rapidly emerged over the past five years as the region’s largest single country source of international visitors jumping from 63,000 in 2010 to 174,000 in 2015, an increase of 113,000 per annum.
06 Mar 2016 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J2971.59
2014-15 was a poor year for growth in regional Queensland outside the southeast corner. However, the Cairns region continued to consolidate its position as the fastest growing and most populous in the North with the wider Cairns/ Tropical North Queensland region including Cairns City, the immediate region and the Peninsula, Torres and Gulf areas increasing by 2,329 to 282,790.
Census 2016 is likely to see 'on-the-ground' population in the Tropical North Queensland region including visitors pass the 300,000 mark.
28 Nov 2015 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J2909.61
Identified that the Cairns region received the lowest per capita budget allocated for capital works in regional Queensland and has suffered the biggest decline in allocations over the past four (4) years.
08 Nov 2015 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J2926.62
This research looks at growth in population 1991-2014, Queensland Statistical Regions Level 4, of Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Fitzroy and Wide Bay and contrasts the pattern with Queensland Infrastructure Plan forward projections.
06 Nov 2015 Other Presentation CE Ref J2919.63
Bill Cummings presented an address to the 2015 DOUGLAS BUSINESS FORUM on Thursday the 12th November 2015 on the vital role of Douglas Shire in the development of tourism in tropical North Queensland.
14 Oct 2015 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref .67
The Cairns based Tropical North Queensland 'on-the-ground' population has passed a major milestone.
At the time of the 2011 Census, ‘on-the-ground’ population count was 293,000. Residential and visitor population has grown since then and on current trends can be expected to record, in next year’s Census, an ‘on-the-ground’ population of the order of 310,000.
At the time of the 2011 Census, the ‘on-the-ground’ population was distributed: Cairns, Cassowary Coast and Tablelands area 252,000, Peninsula and Gulf 40,000.
The ‘on-the-ground’ 2011 Census count for the Cairns/Tropical North Queensland region of 292,000 compares with the other major northern regions of Townsville/Mt Isa region 257,000 and Northern Territory 234,000.
12 Oct 2015 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J2894.65
As population grows in the North, Cairns has emerged in recent years as the leading regional city in Queensland servicing Queensland’s Outback Statistical Divisions, that covers the majority of the State.
14 Jul 2015 Cairns Economy Presentation CE Ref J2776.69
Bill Cummings presented his annual address to the Cairns Chamber of Commerce on 28th July 2015, with assistance of a ppt presentation.
20 May 2015 Cummings Economics Report Ref J2806.73
Cummings Economics prepared two research papers for Cairns Regional Council identifying long-term population trends:
The trends are analysed over the 35-year period 1976 to the last figures verified by the 2011 Census and the 20-year 1991 to 2011 and 10-year 2001 to 2011 periods.
They illustrate the leading role in long-term population growth of the Cairns and Wide Bay Burnett regions in Queensland, and the Cairns region and Northern Territory across the North.
Analysis of regional city growth shows similar patterns.
The papers comment on why the patterns have been occurring and provide estimates of 2050 populations based on the 35, 20 and 10-year trajectories continuing.
16 Feb 2015 Cairns Economy Presentation CE Ref J2840.74
Bill Cummings addressed the CAIRNS FORUM FOR BUSINESS GROWTH highlighting the favourable impacts on the Cairns economy of a lower dollar and lower interest rates and the surge of new investment taking place.
14 Feb 2015 Other Presentation CE Ref J2833.75
The State of Queensland has grown faster than New South Wales and Victoria in recent decades. WHY....?
This note comments on an erroneous view put forward by the Mayors of SE-QLD - a view that if followed, would cramp Queensland's progress, including the process of Brisbane continuing to close up on Sydney and Melbourne as a competitor metropolitan service centre.
The real direct economic reason is that Queensland has massively increased earnings from the rest of the world outside of Queensland.
The origin of almost all of that increase has been outside of Brisbane and the southeast, in Northern and Central Queensland and the West.
06 Feb 2015 Cummings Economics Report CE Ref J2809.76
Because of monopolistic situations in electricity distribution, the sector is subject to a high degree of government regulation - regulation at both Federal and State levels that applies whether operations are being carried out by publicly or privately owned operations.
The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) is currently enquiring into what revenue caps should be placed on the Queensland distribution networks operated by Energex and Ergon over the period 2015-2020.
The following gives submissions prepared by Cummings Economics for a network of electricity users in Far North Queensland and those of some other organisations.
The submission highlights that lying behind sharp rises in electricity costs in recent years, has been shortcomings in the regulatory process for 2010-2015.
It illustrates that the big rises in electricity costs are damaging to the Far North's economy and causing contraction in demand that, in turn, is leading to further price rises.
It argues that not only must prices be curtailed, they must be brought down in real terms.
02 Feb 2015 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J2835.77
A drop in the value of the Australian dollar against the US dollar is overall, good for Cairns. However, the falls were not as strong across all currencies.
The fall against the US dollar of 17.5 per cent is roughly paralleled by the fall against the Chinese yuan of 16.4 per cent (China has had a policy of maintaining parity with the US dollar but allowing small upward appreciations).
14 Dec 2014 Other CE Ref J2793.79
As part of preparation for the Cairns G20 Finance Ministers Conference, Cummings Economics prepared for Cairns Post, some 14 key statistical charts, maps and comments that the region's businesses and organisations are free to use. (We would appreciate attribution.)
12 Dec 2014 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J2785.81
Cummings Economics provided a response to the Green Paper on Northern Australia, inter alia, calling for a clearer recognition of the development now taking place in the tropics around the globe (including Australia), the reasons unpinning this long-term trend and its implications for tropical Australia.
12 Dec 2014 Cairns Economy Presentation CE Ref J2810.83
The Cairns Region plays a much stronger role in manufacturing in Northern Australia than many people recognise. The Cairns region has 40% more manufacturing businesses than the next largest, the Townsville region. The region is especially strong in skills-based manufacturing (as opposed to mineral processing), and in diversified primary product processing.
26 Nov 2014 Cummings Economics Report CE Ref J2754.82
Cummings Economics completed during 2014, preparation of a North Queensland Strategy Report for the combined REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AUSTRALIA covering Fitzroy and Central West, Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday, Townsville North West and Far North Torres Strait.
The report provided Business Cases for the development of:
08 Jun 2014 Research & Statistical Note Ref J2780.86
There have been suggestions recently that population growth in Northern Australia would be best promoted by concentrating on building up one city as a ‘metropolitan’ centre with Darwin, Townsville (or Cairns) being canvassed. This suggestion is unrealistic.
This note sets out how these suggestions are unrealistic. They ignore geographic and economic realities, that the North's combined urban centres have been growing at a faster percentage rate than the southern metropolitan centres and much faster than most regional cities.
The note sets out what appropriate policies should be for urban development in Northern Australia.
06 Jun 2014 Cairns Economy Presentation CE Ref J2776.85
Bill Cummings presented his annual review of the Cairns Economy to the Cairns Chamber of Commerce, noting the upswing now underway and prospects, especially with the proposed Aquis project, of a sustained growth period that could be compared with the upswing over the 12 years 1984 to 1996.
12 Feb 2014 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J2738.87
The Statistical Note prepared by Cummings Economics sets out information demonstrating that life expectancies in tropical Australia are equivalent to the rest of Australia. The paper sets out how life expectancies are low across Australia for the indigenous population, especially in remote areas. It illustrates that life expectancies across Australia for the non-indigenous population are about the same in tropical Australia as in southern Australia. Any apparent difference in life expectancies in tropical Australia is due to a higher proportion of indigenous population. A more detailed research paper is being developed for later release.
Cairns Post story04 Feb 2014 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J2701.89
Cummings Economics have been pleased to again complete an assessment of expenditure generated by Cairns Amateurs in the Cairns Economy.
20 Jan 2014 Cummings Economics Report CE Ref J2571.88
A Cummings Economics led team including AITS (Aerodrome Inspection & Training Services, Victoria) and Thirkell Consulting Engineers completed Strategic Planning for Innisfail (Mundoo) Airport during 2013 for the Cassowary Coast Regional Council.
18 Dec 2013 Cummings Economics Report CE Ref J2681.90
Cummings Economics was pleased to prepare a paper giving estimates of the extent to which the Cairns region had developed as a base for fly-in/fly-out workforce for Skills DMC and Advance Cairns
10 Dec 2013 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J2589.91
This research paper provides an analysis of how the level of university education being achieved in Cairns compared with other regions in Australia based on analysis of 2011 Census data, data from the relevant Commonwealth Department, on enrollments and data from the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre. It indicates Cairns is lagging badly behind national averages per head of population and averages for regional cities with university campuses. A recent Addendum analysing James Cook University’s management structure indicates that only six out of 54 staff positions are based at the Cairns Campus.
23 Jul 2013 Cairns Economy Presentation CE Ref J2683.98
Bill Cummings presented his annual review of the Cairns Economy to the Cairns Chamber of Commerce saying that "Underlying prospects for the Cairns Regional Economy are looking better than they have been since the Global Financial Crises five years ago in 2008".
30 Jun 2013 Media Article CE Ref J2607.92
Cummings Economics was pleased to provide editorial and statistics for the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce - Inaugural Economic Profile.
28 Jun 2013 CE Ref J2695.93
Bill Cummings was pleased to assist the Queensland Police, Cairns, by preparing and delivering a short note on the cost of alcohol related violence to a conference in Cairns.
10 Jun 2013 Other Presentation CE Ref J2630.94
Bill Cummings presented the key address to the second Cairns and Mining Conference held at the Cairns Convention Centre in June 2013. For further details of the conference and papers delivered see link www.cummings.net.au/cairnsandmining
02 Jun 2013 Other CE Ref J2630.95
Cummings Economics with the support of Cairns Regional Council and others organised the second Cairns and Mining Conference at the Cairns Convention Centre in June 2013 with an attendance of over 200 delegates from local businesses, from around Australia and from Papua New Guinea. The link below gives full details of the conference including papers including those presented by the PNG Government, Queensland Government, Queensland Resources Council Wafi Golpu, Brett Duck of Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, on aspects relating to shipping, aviation, education and training. www.cummings.net.au/cairnsandmining
22 Mar 2013 Compass Research Report CR Ref J2646.97
The potential cost of the proposed de-amalgamation of Mareeba Shire from the Tablelands Regional Council became an important issue during the lead up to the de-amalgamation referendum. Cummings Economics prepared a review of the study on potential de-amalgamation costs of Mareeba Shire prepared by the Queensland Treasury Corporation based on a brief from the Queensland Boundaries Commissioner.
29 Oct 2012 Cairns Economy Presentation CE Ref J2558.99
The address identifies that the region’s ‘outside earnings’ have turned a corner after a slump in tourism earnings with all major sectors of tourism, agriculture, mining, defence and other services, along with import replacement sectors in higher education and health, trending upwards again. ABS data was showing an upswing in employed workforce.
29 Oct 2012 Cummings Economics Report CE Ref J2493.100
Cummings Economics with the support of Greenbuild Cairns & Eco Savvy Townsville have completed a major review for the Queensland Government of the capability of businesses in the Tropical North QLD region based on Cairns & Townsville, with united expertise in Tropical Green Building & related services based on input of over 100 firms in the field.
Capability Plan, Advancing Tropical Green Build Connecting Tropical North Queensland to Market - Executive Summary.
14 Oct 2012 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J2606.102
Recently released post census revised estimated residential populations provide an opportunity to review comparative sizes of cities and the regional populations they service.
02 Oct 2012 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J2606.103
Cairns Regional Council asked Cummings Economics to review Commonwealth Government estimates and report on the potential economic impacts of proposed Marine Reserves. Council submission and full report can be found on the Council website. Summary of findings is givin below.
26 Jun 2012 Cairns Economy Presentation CE Ref J2572.105
Bill Cummings presented his annual address to the Cairns Chamber of Commerce on the Cairns Economy saying that he was hopeful that the 2011/12 would prove to be a low point for growth and that 2012/13 would see the growth rate starting to pick up again.
27 May 2012 Ref J2471.106
Bill Cummings presented to the Mareeba Chamber of Commerce 2012 Annual Economic Forum an address launching the Chambers Annual Economic Snapshot "The Tablelands Moving Ahead - Growing Our Resilient Economy" on Wed 6th June 2012, Mareeba International Club.
22 May 2012 Cummings Economics Report CE Ref J2490.108
Cairns Amateurs is not only an important event of the region’s social calendar, it generates substantial expenditure in the community by visitors as well as locals.
Cummings Economics was pleased to be able to research and report on the value of the Amateurs, a summary of which is given below.
15 May 2012 Cummings Economics Report CE Ref J2452.107
As part of a forward strategy developed by Kleinhardt Business Consultants, for Cairns and District Rugby League and Skill360 Northern Pride RLFC, Cummings Economics have carried out research to identify the extent of activities and expenditure generated by the Rugby League code in the Cairns/Far North region. Summary of main findings is given below.
29 Apr 2012 Cummings Economics Report CE Ref J2382.109
North Australia Research Group / Cummings Economics have been pleased to meet requests by Cairns Regional Council to carry out a study to identify likely future workforce needs in Cairns on a 5 to 10-year time frame.
Bill Cummings presented the report and a powerpoint overview to councilors and others from employment, educatioon & training & development agencies on 20th April 2012.
20 Apr 2012 Cummings Economics Report CE Ref J2545.110
This 51 page document provides a geographical and historical background to the growth of the Cairns regional economy, its early and more recent growth including comparisons with the growth of Townsville and other northern and regional cities.
It then goes on to provide a demographic and economic statistical comparison of the cities of Cairns and Townsville.
18 Apr 2012 Cummings Economics Report CE Ref J2494.111
Cummings Economics have been pleased to carry out research to update an economic and social impact and benefit cost analysis of the proposal to create direct sealed road route from Western Queensland (Winton) through the Red Centre to Western Australia (Laverton) (The Outback Way).
The study indicates that the upgraded road will have massive benefits in directly linking Australia’s major mining areas in Western Australia and Queensland, reducing transcontinental freight costs for tourism and for the improvement of prospects for Indigenous communities along the route.
12 Mar 2012 CE Ref J2543.114
This brief note records the comparative strength of manufacturing in Far North Queensland, in leading northern Australia in number of manufacturing locations, and in turnover being 77% of the Townsville region and on a par with the Rockhampton/Gladstone area.
20 Dec 2011 Other Presentation CE Ref J2471.116
Bill Cummings presented a paper to the Australia & New Zealand Regional Science Association Conference in Canberra in December 2011 on the above subject.
05 Dec 2011 Cummings Economics Report CE Ref J2469.117
Cummings Economics have been pleased to carry out research for the Shire of Halls Creek to update economic impact benefit/cost analysis for proposals to upgrade the Tanami Road (Alice Springs to Halls Creek) as a more direct route between the south and the Kimberley region for freight, Ord produce, tourism and cattle movements and to service mining development along the road that are currently expanding to be worth about $1bn per annum.
24 Nov 2011 CE Ref J2511.118
Bill Cummings presented an address to the recently reconstituted Atherton District Chamber of Commerce that outlined some of the major implications of the rapid industrialisation taking place in China and India for the region’s economy, including the negative impact of a high Australian dollar on tourism, the increased demand for mining and basic agricultural products taking place and the need for the region to react with improved seaport and connecting land transport infrastructure.
21 Oct 2011 Other Presentation Ref J2462.119
Bill Cummings presented a paper at the “Cairns and Mining Conference” outlining Cairns history as a mining services centre, the expanding value of mining activity taking place in the region including the income being derived from fly-in services to mines outside the region and through supply of goods by ship to mining in the wider area serviced by Cairns across northern Australia, in Papua New Guinea and Papua Indonesia.
Copies of other papers presented to the conference can be accessed by going to Cairns and Mining 2011 Program
.21 Oct 2011 Other Presentation CE Ref J2462.120
In this paper presented to the “Cairns and Mining Conference 2011”, Bill Cummings identifies a need for the region to upgrade its seaport and land transport infrastructure to benefit from the current high global demand for minerals and energy and development taking place in the immediate Cairns/Tablelands hinterland, the Peninsula, and further afield in Central and Northern Queensland, the Northern Territory, Papua New Guinea and Papua Indonesia.
Copies of other papers presented to the conference can be accessed by going to Cairns and Mining 2011 Program.
08 Aug 2011 Cairns Economy Presentation CE Ref J2478.121
Bill cummings presented his annual address to the Cairns Chamber of Commerce on the Cairns Economy titled "Economic Prospects in a Changed Global Economy".
08 Aug 2011 Other Presentation CE Ref J2475.123
Bill Cummings presented an address to the Live Exports Ban Impacts - Pratical Recovery & Restructure Conference Georgetown on 12th August 2011 on the subject "Are Impacts Broader than Beef - The Value of the Beef Industry to the Regional Economy" Link to Agenda
22 Jul 2011 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref .124
Latest population statistics indicate the degree to which Cairns is now the capital of the north Australia’s most populous and fastest growing region. Over the period, 2001 to 2010, the region’s residential population grew by 51,000 to 280,000 compared with the Townsville region growth of 41,000 to 261,000.
Cairns’ hinterland population grew by 13,000 from 116,000 to 129,000 compared with Townsville’s hinterland that grew by 3,000 only to stand at 88,000. Cairns’ hinterland population is now 41,000 or 50% more than that of Townsville.
The two cities however each grew by 38,000.
Growth in Estimated Residential Population, 2001 to 2010
| 2001 | 2010 | Growth No. | % Growth | |
| Townsville | 134,072 | 172,316 | 38,243 | 0.29 |
| Cairns | 112,932 | 150,920 | 37,988 | 0.34 |
| Townsville Hinterland | 85,475 | 88,403 | 2,938 | 0.03 |
| Cairns Hinterland | 116,292 | 129,229 | 12,935 | 0.11 |
| Total Townville Area | 219,547 | 260,719 | 41,172 | 0.19 |
| Total Cairns Area | 22,9224 | 28,0149 | 50,925 | 0.22 |
Note: Cairns region defined as Far North Qld Statistical Division plus Gulf Shires of North West Division. Townsville region defined as Northern Statistical Division plus Mt Isa & North W
30 Jun 2011 Other Presentation CE Ref J2423.125
On 16th June, Bill Cummings presented an address to the PNG Gas Developments Conference held in Cairns on the subject “Relations Between Australia & Papua New Guinea in an Age of Opportunity” that highlighted the growing economic strengths of the northern regions of Australia and their growing role in strengthening relations between Australia and PNG.
22 Jun 2011 Other Presentation CE Ref J2456.122
Bill Cummings presented an address to the Mareeba Chamber of Commerce Tablelands Economic Forum on 29th July 2011 that emphasised the need in the current changed world economy to upgrade road, rail & seaport transport infrastructure in the region with particular emphasis on the need to upgrade the Kuranda Range Road to take B-Double size freight vehicles if renewed opportunities for mining & agricultural expansions were to be realised.
04 Apr 2011 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J2435.127
Latest ABS residential population data recording 2.6% growth in 2009/10 for Cairns & 2.0% for the Cairns Region (Far North Queensland) statistical division area. Good news for the Cairns Economy
19 Mar 2011 Other Presentation CE Ref J2416.128
Bill Cummings presented an address to the Mareeba Chamber of Commerce at the launch of the Mareeba Chamber Annual Report "Strength in Diversity - An Economic Snapshot". For copies of the report contact Mareeba Chamber of Commerce, Tel 40926050 or promotion@mareebachamber.com.au
09 Mar 2011 Cairns Economy Presentation CE Ref J2446.126
Bill Cummings presented an address on “Economic Prospects for Cairns Over the Next Few Years” to the Cairns Board of the Chamber of Commerce & Industry Q’ld on 8th April and the Board of Regional Development Australia FNQ & Torres Strait on 29th April.
13 Sep 2010 Other Presentation CE Ref J2315.130
Bill Cummings presented a paper to the AGInvest Forum, CAIRNS 2010, giving details of the full value of the primary industries (agriculture, livestock, fishing and forest industries), in the Far North, North and North West Statistical Divisions. The research included both pre farm-gate and post farm-gate activities including processing, transport, merchanting, and other value added and associated government and education services. The study values the sector’s turnover at $3.3bn with direct employment of over 17,000 with ‘flow-on’ employment generated estimated at a further 21,000. It is estimated that the sector’s value add to the regional economy including ‘flow-on’ impacts accounts for about 14% of Gross Regional Value Added.
For a full copy of the Research Paper The Contribution of the Primary Industries Sector to Northern Queensland Regional Economies.
31 Aug 2010 Cummings Economics Report CE Ref J2288.131
Cummings Economics have recently completed an update of their ground breaking study into service opportunities in the mining sector across northern Australia (Mackay, Pilbara northwards) and into Papua New Guinea and Papua Indonesia.
30 Aug 2010 Other Presentation CE Ref RefJ2358.132
Bill Cummings presented a paper to the North Queensland Resources Conference entitled Mining & Industrial Services Opportunity Study 2010 Update that outlines the background to the main findings from the study.
16 Aug 2010 Cairns Economy Presentation CE Ref J2368.133
Bill Cummings presented his annual review of the Cairns’ regional economy to a Cairns Chamber of Commerceluncheon on 24th August 2010.
05 Aug 2010 Other Presentation CE Ref J2366.134
Bill Cummings presented a paper to a seminar conducted by the Queensland Government Planning Information & Forecasting Unit in Cairns on 5th August 2010. The paper aims to briefly illustrate the long-term pattern of population growth in regional Queensland over the last three decades. It illustrates how the State’s previously underdeveloped northern regions and cities have grown fastest especially the higher rainfall cities & regions of Cairns and Mackay.
02 Aug 2010 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J2309.135
Cummings Economics prepared a paper based on information to February 2010 identifying why Cairns’ tourism and the economy could be expected to move back into growth progressively during 2010.
20 Apr 2010 CE Ref J2247.136
Cummings Economics have been pleased to carry out for the Halls Creek Shire WA an economic impact / benefit cost report on the upgrading of the Tanami Road, linking the Kimberley region direct via major mining operations to Alice Springs and Australia’s major population and industry base in south eastern Australia.
30 Mar 2010 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J2335.137
Looks at the latest Australian Bureau of Statisticspopulation estimates for major regions and cities across Northern Australia.
14 Mar 2010 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J2321.138
Comments on recent trends in the Australian Bureau of Statistics labour force series, recent and likely future trends.
07 Mar 2010 Cummings Economics Report CE Ref J2332.139
A personal submission to the Senate Legal and Constitutional Commitee enquiry into the QLD Wild Rivers legislation, particularly on the underlying potential of the Cape for agricultural and pastoral development.
05 Mar 2010 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J2307.140
This paper briefly canvasses the value of agriculture in the regional economy, its historical challenges, contributions to recent growth and future prospects.
06 Oct 2009 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J2276.142
There is a widespread myth that Cairns has a highly transient population. Certainly, Cairns has a high level of visitor population, some of whom will seek work during their visit, especially backpackers. However, when population excluding visitors is looked at, a very different picture emerges.
31 Aug 2009 Research & Statistical Note Ref J2269.144
Latest ABS statistics indicate Cairns / Far North Queensland region recorded a strong growth in manufacturing 2001/02 to 2006/07 and continues to lead the north in number of manufacturing locations.
26 Aug 2009 Cairns Economy Presentation CE Ref J2250.145
Bill Cummings presented his annual review of recent movements and short to medium term prospects of the Cairns economy at the August luncheon for the Cairns Chamber of Commerce, entitled "Understanding the Challenges"
13 Aug 2009 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref J2218.148
Recently released Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data for estimated residential population for 2007/08 reveal the extent of the strong economic growth taking place across the north in the 12 months up to June 2008.
25 Nov 2008 Other Presentation CE Ref J2156.151
Bill Cummings presented a paper on behalf of the North Australia Research Group on the "Social and Economic Benefits of Irrigation Developments in the Flinders River Catchment", 18 th November 2008.
18 Nov 2008 Cummings Economics Report Ref .152
This note to the Australian and New Zealand Regional Science Association Newsletter identifies important limitations of multipliers in relation to State and Federal Government service provisions.
20 Jun 2008 Cummings Economics Report Ref J2070.157
The study was carried out for DEEDI and the Cairns Chamber of Commerce. It identifies operating and proposed mines and exploration activity across Northern Australia, Papua New Guinea and Eastern Indonesia, current air services to mines and opportunities to provide services especially workforce based on research in the first half of 2008.
31 Aug 2006 Cummings Economics Report CE Ref J1850.166
The Hann Highway Action Group has presented to the Queensland Minister for Main Roads a report prepared by W S Cummings entitled “The Hann Highway Development Report – An Economic Impact Cost Benefit Analysis of Upgrading the Lynd Hughenden Section of the Kennedy Developmental Road”. The link is the last unsealed section of a direct inland route from the Cairns/Tablelands area to Melbourne and Adelaide. Its sealing will provide :
27 Jul 2006 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref .162
Australian Bureau of Statistics data has recently become available for 2001/02 on manufacturing at a regional level that throws light on the position of manufacturing in the Cairns region. Most recent previous data was for 1996/97.
26 Jun 2006 Cairns Economy Presentation CE Ref .163
Cummings Economics has been pleased to complete, in conjunction with Advance Cairns, a study and report for the Airfreight Council of Queensland on airfreight exports from the Cairns, northern Queensland area.
The study indicated a high proportion of the region’s fishery output was being exported by air via Cairns airport, especially to Asian markets. Relatively little diversion was taking place via Brisbane and Sydney airports except for commodities for North American, Middle East and European markets not serviced with direct flights out of Cairns.
In strong contrast however, a large diversion of fruit and vegetables was found to be taking place to be exported via Brisbane and Sydney airports with Cairns airport accounting for only 13% of the region’s fruit and vegetable exported by air. Factors found to be causing this included:
For details of availability of the report, contact Cummings Economics on Tel (07) 4031 2888 Email: cummings@cummings.net.au. Full report available from: www.australianairfreight.com 2.4MB PDF
08 Jul 2005 Cummings Economics Report CE Ref .165
Cairns economist, Bill Cummings, provided an outline of the “Cairns 2020/2050 Business Research Manual” project at a special function held at the Cairns City Council Chambers last night. For further details of the project contact Cummings Economics on Tel (07) 4031 2888 Email: cummings@cummings.net.au.
26 Apr 2005 Research & Statistical Note Ref .167
This brief paper identifies the changed pattern of growth of Australian cities in recent years.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics recently released their residential population growth estimates for 2002 – 2003.
29 Mar 2005 Research & Statistical Note CE Ref .170
Latest ABS data indicates the Cairns based Far North Statistical Division continued to lead residential population growth in Northern Australia, but that Townsville city growth continues to be ahead of Cairns city.
22 Mar 2005 Cummings Economics Report CE Ref .172
Study Cairns (an organisation representing the international education providers in the Cairns area) yesterday released a summary of findings of a study into the economic impacts of the international education sector in the Cairns region prepared by Cummings Economics. For further details of Study Cairns, see website www.studycairns.com.au. For summary of report findings.
navigation38 Grafton Street, Cairns, Qld
draftsPO Box 2148, CAIRNS, Qld Australia
emailcummings@cummings.net.au
emailadmin@compassresearch.net.au
call+61 7 4031 2888
call0418 871 011
ABN: 99734 489 175
Provides a brief note on the new wave of agricultural development now taking place in the region.