Sunshine Coast Tops Regional Migration in Australia Again

Sunshine Coast Emerges as Australia’s Top Regional Migration Spot

The Sunshine Coast has once again been crowned Australia’s leading regional destination for people moving from capital cities. This lively beach locale is drawing in new residents, outshining regional towns such as Geelong, Townsville, and Bendigo.

Insights from the Regional Movers Index

This information comes from the Regional Movers Index, a report that analyses internal migrations using Commonwealth Bank customer data. Released recently, it highlights growth trends in regional areas. After losing its top position to Geelong last quarter, the Sunshine Coast is back in first place, having dominated for nine consecutive quarters before the recent change.

Trends in Regional Migration

While regional migration remains strong overall, it has recently dipped to its lowest point since before the pandemic. Nevertheless, the Sunshine Coast continues to attract newcomers, underscoring its ongoing appeal.

Community Appeal and Economic Opportunities

Liz Ritchie, CEO of the Regional Australia Institute, states, “Regional Australia is no longer a second choice – it’s the smart choice.” She points out that these regions are now offering excellent career prospects along with a robust sense of community.

Spotlight on Other Growing Regions

Several other regions are also seeing notable increases in migration from major cities. For example, Albury, located on the NSW-Victoria border, experienced a significant 16-fold rise in net migration during the 2024-25 financial year. Albury, once part of a failed decentralisation initiative in the 1970s, is thriving as a regional hotspot.

Local real estate agents report high demand, with liveability and affordability being key attractions for new residents and investors. Albury’s strategic placement along the Hume Highway, which connects Melbourne and Sydney, along with direct train services and a regional airport, further boosts its allure.

Other Regional Leaders

In addition to the Sunshine Coast and Albury, Townsville in northern Queensland and Bendigo in central Victoria are also witnessing robust migration from urban areas. The growing interest in regional living is making these locations popular for those seeking a lifestyle change.

For anyone considering a move to Australia, particularly to vibrant regions like the Sunshine Coast, opportunities for visa sponsorship and permanent residency (PR) are becoming increasingly available. The 482 visa allows skilled workers to be sponsored by businesses, while the 189 and 190 visas enable skilled migration based on qualifications and experience. Familiarising yourself with these pathways can be beneficial for planning your relocation.

What do you think?

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