“While the RAI’s head office is based in Canberra, more than half of our staff work remotely from around the country, including three executives and the majority of the board. Individuals shouldn’t be limited in their career goals due to their postcode,” Ms Ritchie said.
“Remote skilled workers build human capital in regional communities, bringing with them ideas, information and innovation. Forging this ‘knowledge economy’ in regional Australia helps in diversifying our communities and ensuring our entire nation can play a role in our rapidly evolving world.
“To date there is limited research about remote working within a regional context. Recent analysis from the Committee for Economic Development of Australia (CEDA) found workforce participation has increased by over 4% in the WFH era, post the pandemic. Additionally, the 2024 Australian Workplace Index – a research collaboration between the Australian National University and the University of Newcastle – suggests staff working in a hybrid model felt less burnt out.
“It is a topic that needs to be explored in more detail, particularly the WFH impact on regional Australia, so we can better understand and manage workplaces of the future.”
The survey also delved into the demographics of potential movers finding Millennials (b. 1981-1996) were the most likely to consider a regional move, followed by Gen Z (b. 1997-2009) and Gen X (b. 1965-1980).
Further, families with children under the age of 18 were more likely to relocate regionally than those without.
Amenity and economic gains were the top drawcards for potential movers, with:
- 41% citing more affordable housing as an influencing factor
- 39% seeking a cheaper cost of living
- 35% wanting a closer connection to nature
- 31% craving more space
- 29% longing for a stronger sense of community
Ms Ritchie said the findings build on research undertaken by the RAI showing that Australia’s migration patterns are shifting towards regions.
“Regional Australia is going through an unprecedented era of growth. The regions are no longer seen through a lens of deficit – a place you wouldn’t choose to live, a place you’d leave to get ahead. Now, the regions are viewed as a land of abundance, and in the net zero transition they will play a vital role in the nation’s future productivity,” Ms Ritchie said.
“Whilst I spent my early years in a small community, returning to one has provided me with new perspectives and a deeper understanding about the current opportunities and challenges the regions face. Australia is a vast country and experiences can vary greatly. The more people, and indeed executives, we have working in diverse locations, the more insight we gain into our country.
“This regional renaissance offers much opportunity for communities. At the same time, this new data should also signal to decision-makers the urgent need to undertake adequate planning now, to ensure our regions can support those who currently reside there, as well as those who desire to.