Understanding regional populations

Non-metropolitan regions are diverse and dynamic, not static, homogenous and declining as many people assume. This is the key finding of a newly released report from the RAI.

Population Dynamics in Regional Australia explores the major factors, key drivers and influences of population change, including ageing populations, economic drivers, the role of international and internal migration, temporary migration and analyses how they influence the distribution of population across the regions.

The report shows there is a clear pattern of growth in coastal areas, areas around major regional cities and in mining regions, while areas experiencing stasis or decline are more likely to be inland.

These variations in population trends need to be reflected in the common understanding of regional Australia and in the policy space. Planning for the future should not be dependent on ‘how many Australians?’ but ‘where will they live?’

This work has formed the foundation of the RAI’s Talking Points Returning to regional Australia and An ageing (regional) Australia and the rise of the Super Boomer.

This report is an essential reference document for anyone seeking to deeply understand recent population trends in regional Australia.

Click here to view the full report.