Australian Internal Migration Sees Shift: Regional Areas Gain Popularity
New research indicates a shift in Australian internal migration patterns, with a decrease in people moving from regional areas to major cities. Concurrently, more Australian families are relocating from urban centers to regional locations.
Shifting Tides: Regional Movers Index Insights
The Regional Movers Index (RMI) report indicates that since 2023, the number of movers from regional areas to capital cities has decreased by 18 percent. Southeast Queensland has been identified as a highly favored destination for individuals leaving cities.
Since 2023, the number of movers from regional areas to capital cities has decreased by 18 percent.
Lifestyle and Commute Drive Relocations
One family relocated from Sydney to the Gold Coast, stating reasons such as a desire for a "slower lifestyle" and a "more balanced way of living." Reduced travel times were also noted as a benefit, with one individual's daily commute decreasing from three hours to 15 minutes.
A desire for a "slower lifestyle" and a "more balanced way of living" are key reasons for relocation.
Popular Migration Destinations
The RMI report identified the following popular locations for internal migration:
- Sunshine Coast, QLD
- Greater Geelong, Vic
- Lake Macquarie, NSW
- Fraser Coast, QLD
- Moorabool, Vic
Booming Regional Hubs: Fastest Growing Towns
The report also highlighted towns with significant annual growth in net internal migration:
- Wodonga, Vic (973% growth)
- Latrobe, Tas (842% growth)
- Devonport, Tas (412% growth)
- Huon Valley, Tas (380% growth)
- Colac-Otway, Vic (375% growth)
Liz Ritchie, CEO of the Regional Australia Institute (RAI), noted substantial migration growth in southern states.
Areas like Wodonga, Latrobe, Devonport, and Huon Valley experienced a five-fold increase in net migration over a 12-month period.
The RMI is a collaborative project between the RAI and Commonwealth Bank of Australia.