New research from AHURI highlighted the critical role of enhancing liveability factors – such as housing, health, education, and infrastructure – in promoting sustainable population growth in regional Australia.
“In order for regional centres to grow and retain a population that thrives, new AHURI research has found that a focus on enhancing liveability factors is key,” the institute said.
The AHURI research found that regional growth is closely linked to proximity to major cities, employment areas, and a hospitable climate.
Coastal access and warmer, wetter climates are significant draws for people moving to regional areas.
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The study stressed that a one-size-fits-all approach to policy development is insufficient.
Instead, AHURI recommended that policies should be tailored to address the unique liveability concerns of each region.
Attracting skilled workers to regional areas remains a challenge due to factors like housing shortages, limited services, and a lack of job opportunities for spouses.
“A key challenge in regional areas is that for vacancies in key employment sectors, local residents may not have requisite skills,” AHURI said.
Overcoming obstacles to liveability is crucial for building a thriving regional population.
The research suggested that addressing issues like childcare, housing supply, and transport infrastructure, while expanding local education and training opportunities, requires innovative approaches.
“The liveability of each regional location is very important in creating a healthy and ‘deep’ population,” AHURI said.
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