The latest Regional Movers Index confirms that the “Great Australian Migration” is not a temporary pandemic-era anomaly, but a structural shift in how and where Australians choose to live. With a 2.5% increase in regional moves during the September 2025 quarter, the data reveals a persistent preference for regional centres over capital cities.
What actually matters here is the net flow. While 8.4% of relocations were toward capital cities, 11.5% were toward the regions. This 3.1% gap represents a significant and sustained transfer of human and financial capital into regional markets. Sydney and Melbourne continue to be the primary exporters of residents, but the “smaller” capitals are now joining the trend. Adelaide’s share of outflows tripled from 2% to 6% in just twelve months, and Perth has officially shifted from a net recipient to a net exporter of residents—now accounting for 3% of the total outflow.
For the strategic investor, the focus remains on the “Big Three” regional hubs: the Sunshine Coast, Greater Geelong, and Lake Macquarie. These regions aren’t just lifestyle destinations; they are becoming significant economic engines. The Sunshine Coast remains the national leader in attracting new residents, supported by massive infrastructure investment and a diversified economy. Greater Geelong and Moorabool in Victoria, and Lake Macquarie in NSW, follow closely, benefiting from their proximity to major capitals while offering superior lifestyle and affordability.
This is why surface-level analysis falls short—many assume this trend would reverse as offices reopened. Instead, the “work-from-anywhere” culture and the widening affordability gap between capitals and regions have cemented this behavior. At Infinite Wealth, we view these migration flows as a leading indicator of long-term property demand. Where the people go, the infrastructure, services, and capital growth inevitably follow.
