If you’ve been dreaming of a tree change or a sea change, you’re not alone.
Australians are packing up and heading for greener pastures in record numbers, and the latest data reveals a surprising new favourite for those seeking a fresh start outside the big smoke.
Move over, Sunshine Coast—Greater Geelong in Victoria has officially become the nation’s hottest regional destination for internal migration.
That’s right: Geelong, once known mainly as a gateway to the Great Ocean Road or a footy stronghold, is now the regional darling for Australians on the move.
According to the latest Regional Movers Index (RMI)—a collaboration between the Regional Australia Institute (RAI) and the Commonwealth Bank—Geelong now claims a whopping 9.3 per cent of the country’s total net internal migration.
That’s just enough to nudge past the Sunshine Coast’s 8.9 per cent, ending its two-year reign at the top.
So, what’s behind this regional renaissance, and why are so many people choosing Geelong over the usual coastal suspects? Let’s dig a little deeper.
The great regional shift: Why are Australians moving?
The pandemic may have been the catalyst, but the trend is proving to have real staying power.
The RMI shows that capital-to-regional moves are up nearly 11 per cent from last quarter and a staggering 20.5 per cent higher than pre-COVID levels.
It’s clear that the appeal of regional living—more space, less traffic, and a slower pace of life—has well and truly taken hold.
But it’s not just about escaping the city grind. As RAI CEO Liz Ritchie puts it, ‘Contemporary regional Australia has what people are looking for… clichéd images and misconceptions about regional living are well and truly a thing of the past.’
Today’s regional centres offer vibrant communities, modern amenities, and plenty of opportunities for work and play.
Why Geelong?
Geelong’s rise isn’t just a fluke. The city has been quietly transforming itself over the past decade, shaking off its industrial past and embracing a new identity as a thriving, liveable hub.
With its idyllic location on Corio Bay, proximity to Melbourne (just an hour by train), and easy access to the Bellarine Peninsula and Surf Coast, Geelong offers the best of both worlds: a relaxed regional lifestyle with all the conveniences of a major city.
But it’s not just about location. Geelong is also benefitting from significant government and corporate investment, with major infrastructure projects like the Geelong Convention Centre and the Barwon Women and Children’s Hospital driving growth and creating jobs.
The Victorian government has set an ambitious target of 128,600 new dwellings in Geelong by 2051, ensuring there’s plenty of room for newcomers.
CBA Acting Executive General Manager Josh Foster sums it up: ‘Greater Geelong has become the star performer due to its idyllic location, established services and range of employment opportunities. This is underpinned by significant government and corporate investment in the region.’
Who’s making the move?
It’s not just retirees or young families making the leap. The new wave of regional movers includes professionals who can work remotely, entrepreneurs seeking a better work-life balance, and even city slickers who’ve had enough of the daily grind.
Take Alanna, a former Sydney resident who now calls the Sunshine Coast home: ‘For me, it’s been the fact there’s no traffic and (mostly) no issues with parking. I don’t know if I can ever return to a one-hour commute. I love the lifestyle I can have with my partner, being able to live by the beach and having the beautiful hinterland close by.’
Geelong’s appeal is similar—think beaches, wineries, a buzzing arts scene, and a strong sense of community, all within easy reach of Melbourne’s cultural attractions.
Regional Victoria on the rise
Geelong’s success is part of a broader boom across regional Victoria, which attracted 34 per cent of all regional net inflows in the March quarter—up from 28 per cent a year earlier.
The state is also home to the two fastest-growing regional local government areas: Latrobe and Murrindindi.
It’s clear that Victorians (and plenty of interstate arrivals) are seeing the value in swapping city life for something a little more laid-back.
What about the rest of Australia?
While Geelong and the Sunshine Coast are leading the charge, other regional hotspots are also drawing crowds.
Regional NSW secured 40 per cent of total inflows, with Sydney continuing to lead net capital city outflows (64 per cent).
Queensland’s regional share dipped to 17 per cent from 30 per cent last year, but the Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Townsville, and Fraser Coast remain strong magnets thanks to their climate and housing affordability.
Elsewhere, South Australia’s Victor Harbour and Western Australia’s Denmark and Harvey are also seeing strong interest from movers looking for a change of scenery.
The challenges ahead
Of course, this regional boom isn’t without its challenges. As more people flock to these areas, there’s growing pressure on infrastructure, housing, and services.
RAI’s Liz Ritchie is calling for greater government focus on sustaining this momentum: ‘There are big economic gains to be made by supporting, facilitating and nurturing growth across the regions. Those benefits can only be achieved by ensuring communities have the infrastructure, facilities and funding they need.’
Is a regional move right for you?
If you’re considering a move, now might be the perfect time to explore your options. Whether you’re after a coastal escape, a country retreat, or a vibrant regional city, there’s never been more choice—or more support for making the leap.
Have you made a regional move recently, or are you thinking about it? What’s your dream destination, and what’s holding you back? We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences—share your story in the comments below!
Also read: A northern winter getaway: Art, music and sunshine in Townsville
