Internal migration to the regions has reached a five-year high, with young people leading the way, according to the Regional Australia Institute (RAI).
The RAI’s Regional Movers Index report for the March 2022 quarter shows the number of people moving to regional areas rose by 16.6 percent, almost double pre-pandemic levels, with most being Millennials or Gen Xers.
RAI chief executive officer Liz Ritchie said younger cohorts were welcome additions to any regional community as they often brought business skills to grow the local community, as well as families who integrate into local schools and community sports activities.
“Regional living is attracting more young people and particularly younger families who are looking for bigger living spaces at a cheaper cost,” Ms Ritchie said.
As a result of the influx, demand for housing is soaring, particularly in South Australia.
The three local government areas which recorded the biggest growth rates in the 12 months to March 2022 were Ceduna (114 percent), Mount Gambier (85 percent) and Port Augusta (74 percent).
In other jurisdictions, Moorabool in Victoria and Western Downs in Queensland experienced substantial growth rates of 56 percent each.