Canning recognised as one of WA's fastest-growing business destinations

The City of Canning is inviting local businesses, investors and industry leaders to attend this year’s Canning Connect Economic Outlook Forum after new figures ranked Canning among Western Australia’s top five local governments for small business growth.

The Forum will be held from 4.30pm to 7.30pm on Thursday 6 August 2026 at the Cannington Exhibition Centre and Showgrounds. Attendees will receive exclusive economic insights, network with industry leaders and gain early access to two independent research reports examining Canning's business landscape and future growth opportunities.

Building on the success of previous Canning Connect events, the City has continued to strengthen its support for local businesses by creating opportunities to connect, share knowledge and explore new pathways for growth.

Prepared independently by The Demographics Group for the Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC), the study examined small business and sole trader growth across all 137 local government areas in Western Australia over a five-year period. Canning ranked fifth in the State, with only a narrow margin separating the top five local governments. Between June 2020 and June 2025, the City welcomed 2,250 new small businesses and sole traders - growth of 23%, well above the State average of 19%.

Deputy Mayor Mark Bain said the results reinforce Canning's reputation as one of Western Australia's leading places to do business and highlighted why the upcoming forum is an important opportunity for the local business community.

"These results confirm what we're seeing across our city, more businesses are choosing Canning because of our strong economy, strategic location and diverse industries," Deputy Mayor Mark Bain said.

"The Canning Connect Economic Outlook Forum is an opportunity for businesses to understand what is driving this growth, hear directly from industry experts and connect with other business leaders. Whether you're already operating in Canning or looking to invest here, I encourage you to come along and be part of the conversation about our city's future."

The Transport, Postal and Warehousing industry sector continues to lead Canning’s growth. Growing by 419 businesses in a single year, it accounts for almost one quarter of all local businesses. Almost 11% of every transport, postal and warehousing business in Western Australia is now based in Canning, underlining the City's position as a major freight and logistics hub. WA Small Business Commissioner Saj Abdoolakhan congratulated the City on the achievement.

"The City of Canning continues to be one of Perth's most dynamic business locations, combining excellent transport links, a skilled workforce and a thriving mix of industries that create opportunities for businesses of all sizes," Mr Abdoolakhan said.

Attendees will receive exclusive early access to two independent economic reports before their public release, including the Leading Industry Sector Analysis by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry WA (CCIWA) and the Commercial Property Vacancy Review by Y Research. Together, the reports provide valuable insights into Canning's leading industries, workforce trends, commercial property market and emerging opportunities for business growth and investment.

Businesses will also have the opportunity to hear directly from the report authors during a live panel discussion, network with local business owners, investors and decision makers, and gain valuable insights to support future business planning and investment decisions.

The City will also launch its new Investment Prospectus at the event, highlighting opportunities for business investment and growth across Canning.

Businesses can register at canning.wa.gov.au/canningconnect. Attendance is free, however registrations are essential.