Australia’s regions are rapidly emerging as desirable destinations for migrants seeking better opportunities, quality of life, and a more affordable cost of living. With government incentives, growing infrastructure, and a balanced lifestyle on offer, moving to regional Australia is becoming an increasingly popular choice.
This blog delves into the top reasons why choosing regional Australia could be a smart move for skilled workers, families, students, and investors.
1. Priority Processing for Regional Visas
One of the major advantages of moving to regional areas is the priority processing offered for certain visa subclasses. The Australian Government has placed significant emphasis on regional development and allocates more places under regional skilled migration programs such as:
- Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional – Provisional)
- Subclass 494 (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional – Provisional)
These visas offer a pathway to permanent residency and are designed to fill critical skill shortages outside metropolitan areas.
2. Access to Additional Points for Skilled Migration
Applicants who choose to live and work in regional Australia may be eligible for additional points under the General Skilled Migration (GSM) points test. For instance, state or territory nomination from a regional area can grant 15 extra points—greatly improving chances of invitation to apply for a visa.
3. Lower Cost of Living
Housing, transport, and general living expenses are significantly more affordable in regional areas compared to major cities like Sydney and Melbourne. This allows for a higher standard of living, better savings potential, and more accessible homeownership.
4. Growing Job Opportunities
Contrary to popular belief, regional Australia offers strong employment prospects across industries such as:
- Health and aged care
- Agriculture and agribusiness
- Construction and infrastructure
- Education
- Mining and energy
Many regional areas actively seek professionals and tradespeople to meet local demand, creating a welcoming environment for skilled migrants.
5. Better Quality of Life
6. Pathway to Permanent Residency
7. Education and Healthcare Access
Regional Australia offers high-quality education institutions and public health services. Some universities and TAFEs even provide scholarships and fee reductions for international students studying in designated regional areas.
8. Government Incentives and Support
To encourage regional migration, the government offers various incentives such as:
- Regional Occupation Lists with more in-demand roles
- State and territory nomination programs
- Medicare eligibility for certain visa holders
- Support for businesses and entrepreneurs starting in the regions
Conclusion
