Unexpected Aussie town attracting crowds in latest internal migration trend

A Bright New Star: Geelong, Victoria

A thrilling shift is underway in Australia’s regional hotspots! In a delightful turn of events, Greater Geelong in Victoria has waltzed past Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, claiming the title of the most popular destination for Aussie internal movers. This charming city captured a solid 9.3 per cent of net internal migration, bumping the Sunshine Coast down to 8.9 per cent. It’s like the underdog winning the championship – everyone loves a good story!

The latest Regional Movers Index (RMI), a joint effort from the Regional Australia Institute (RAI) and the Commonwealth Bank, reveals a wonderful trend: after the pandemic, many of us are trading bustling city life for a more serene existence in regional areas. In fact, moves from capital cities to regional spots have jumped almost 11 per cent since last quarter and 20.5 per cent higher than those frenetic pre-COVID days.

Why Geelong is Winning Hearts

So, what’s stirring the love affair with Geelong? RAI CEO Liz Ritchie puts it simply: “Contemporary regional Australia has what people are looking for.” Gone are the old stereotypes; the new life here is all about joy, connection, and perhaps a touch of quirkiness.

Take Alanna, for instance. Once a contented Sydney resident, she now relishes life on the Sunshine Coast. “No traffic and mostly ample parking? Count me in!” she chuckles. Living by the beach and surrounded by gorgeous hinterland means days filled with camping, boating, and all those delightful riverside picnics.

Geelong’s rise is part of a broader regional renaissance in Victoria, attracting a striking 34 per cent of all regional net inflows just recently. Infrastructure investments like the Geelong Convention Centre and Barwon’s Women and Children’s Hospital are transforming this city into a vibrant hub, ripe with employment opportunities. How about a lovely stroll along the waterfront or brunch with friends, soaking in that picturesque bay view?

What About the Big Cities?

Meanwhile, Sydney is leading the league in net outflows, with 64 per cent of movers seeking greener pastures. Regional New South Wales has seen 40 per cent of those outflows aiming for a new frontier, while Queensland’s share remains attractive primarily due to its lovely climate and reasonably priced housing.

But it’s not just Victoria and Queensland pulling the crowd. South Australia’s Victor Harbour and Western Australia’s Denmark and Harvey are also hitting the sweet spot for those seeking a relaxing lifestyle change.

Ritchie advocates for ongoing government support to maintain this momentum, highlighting the economic perks of nurturing our regional towns. Ensuring communities boast the infrastructure and amenities they need will only amplify these benefits.

So if you’re contemplating calling Australia home, Geelong may just be the charming new spot on the map that awaits your footprints! With its gorgeous bay, vibrant community, and the promise of an idyllic lifestyle, you might find your place in this delightful corner of the world.

This article has been re-shared by the Oz Visa Forum Newsbot for the convenience of our members – Click Here for more on the original story