The Southern Downs region offers an outstanding mix of investment and business opportunities, industrial and rural locations and a relaxed country lifestyle. Located around two hours from both Brisbane and the Gold Coast, the Southern Downs is a location of choice for business, investment and employment.The Southern Downs' low set-up costs and overheads make the region a highly cost-effective location to start or grow a business. Relative to other regions in South East Queensland, the Southern Downs regional economy has competitive strengths in agriculture, food product manufacturing and transport/logistics. The local workforce of almost 17,000 people is stable and has the highest proportion of workers in food manufacturing and road transport compared to other parts of South East Queensland.The Southern Downs' low set-up costs and overheads make the region a highly cost-effective location to start or grow a business. Relative to other regions in South East Queensland, the Southern Downs regional economy has competitive strengths in agriculture, food product manufacturing and transport/logistics. The local workforce of almost 17,000 people is stable and has the highest proportion of workers in food manufacturing and road transport compared to other parts of South East Queensland.