Britannica Sources used in this answer

Which industries have employed the most people in Melbourne?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

In terms of the number of people employed, Melbourne’s most significant industries are metal processing—which includes the manufacture of transportation equipment—and engineering.1

Other major industries that contribute significantly to employment in the city include:

  • Textile and clothing manufacture12
  • Food processing and the production of beverages12
  • Papermaking and printing12
  • The manufacture of chemicals, furniture, and building materials12
  • Petroleum products2

Additionally, Melbourne serves as a leader in the manufacture of computers and is increasingly recognized as a hub for biotechnology and biomedicine. While the central city remains a primary location for service-oriented activities such as banking, insurance, and retail, manufacturing continues to be a vital component of the regional economy, with many factories located in the city's peripheral suburbs.12