The Macedon Ranges Shire's employment statistics are an important indicator of socio-economic status. The levels of full or part-time employment, unemployment and labour force participation indicate the strength of the local economy and social characteristics of the population.

For people counted in low income households, it is likely that employment characteristics will be quite different to the total population. As income is usually linked to employment, low incomes are usually correlated with high unemployment and low workforce participation. This is important information in planning services for those on low incomes - for instance families with unemployed breadwinners may need different levels of support to low income retirees.

Employment status is linked to a number of other factors including Age Structure, which influences the number of people in the workforce; the economic base and employment opportunities available in the area and; the education and skill base of the population (Occupations and Qualifications).