Australia’s regional towns are experiencing an unprecedented boom, emerging as prime investment hubs fuelled by a surge in economic vitality and population growth.
This momentum is propelled by a growing number of individuals relocating to regional areas, enticed by the allure of affordable housing, a serene lifestyle, and ongoing infrastructure enhancements.
Moreover, Australians are embracing domestic travel with unparalleled enthusiasm, infusing a staggering $108 billion into the economy—an incredible 40% increase over the past five years. These evolving trends have catalysed substantial progress in key sectors like healthcare, education, and transportation within our flourishing regional communities, bolstered further by government initiatives aimed at fostering their expansion.
Against this backdrop of remarkable growth, we’ve pinpointed top-tier investment opportunities in the most rapidly expanding regions, tailored to discerning property investors seeking exceptional growth potential.
Powering Growth: Explore the key factors powering economic expansion in our thriving regional areas.
Townsville, Queensland
Population: 200,000
Annual Visitors: 1.2 million
Annual Economic Output: $15 billion
Townsville stands as a major economic hub in northern Australia with its diverse economy strengthened by key sectors such as defense, education, health services, mining, and tourism, ensuring robust and sustained economic activity.
Tourism plays a pivotal role in Townsville’s economy, injecting approximately $900 million annually. The city’s natural wonders, including close proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and Magnetic Island, alongside various cultural events and attractions, draw a substantial number of visitors each year. This influx of tourists supports a wide range of local businesses, from hospitality to retail, further invigorating the economy.
Government investment in Townsville is substantial, reflecting a commitment to its growth and development. Recent allocations include $1.3 billion for the expansion and modernisation of the Townsville Hospital, ensuring top-tier health services for residents and the wider region. Additionally, $1.2 billion is being invested in infrastructure projects, including road upgrades, public transport improvements, and community facilities.
Sunshine Coast, Queensland
Population: 333,400
Annual Visitors: 4.2 million
Annual Economic Output: $23.7 billion
With its glorious expansive beaches, the Sunshine Coast is a major tourism destination experiencing robust economic growth. Its population has steadily increased to an estimated 333,400 and is forecast to exceed 500,000 by 2041.
The region’s Gross Regional Product (GRP) has also been rising, reaching an estimated $18-20 billion in 2021, bolstered by substantial investments in infrastructure, such as the $350 million Sunshine Coast Airport expansion project completed in 2020.
Tourism remains a cornerstone of the Sunshine Coast economy, attracting over 3.5 million domestic and international visitors who contribute approximately $3.5 billion in tourism expenditure annually.
The Sunshine Coast’s vibrant lifestyle, stunning natural attractions, and thriving arts and culture scene make it an appealing destination for both residents and visitors.
Hunter Valley Region, NSW
Population: 682,500
Annual Visitors: 1.5 million
Annual Economic Output: $60 billion
The Hunter Valley Region is Australia’s seventh largest centre and largest regional economy with significant exposure to resources, agriculture, energy production, defence and service industry bases. The region has an incredible economic output of $60 billion and a strong population growth rate.
Beyond its thriving wine industry, the Hunter Valley features a diverse economic landscape, with sectors such as agriculture, mining, tourism, and manufacturing driving its growth.
Located in the Lower Hunter Valley, Maitland has emerged as one of the fastest growing areas in the Hunter Valley region and is a booming town with a population of more than 90,000 people with its main industry sectors including manufacturing, construction, real estate, mining and retail trade.
The region is renowned for its picturesque vineyards, gourmet food experiences, and rich cultural heritage, making it a sought-after destination for both tourists and new residents.
Central Coast, NSW
Population: 352,000
Annual Visitors: 5.7 million
Annual Economic Output: $19.8 billion
The Central Coast of New South Wales, with
a population of 352,000, is a dynamic region characterised by robust economic and tourism sectors. Attracting 5.7 million visitors annually, the area boasts an economic output of $19.8 billion, reflecting its diverse economic activities and vibrant communities. The region’s economic landscape is underpinned by significant contributions from towns like Tuggerah and The Entrance, which play pivotal roles in its overall development and prosperity.
Tuggerah, with a population of approximately 4,000, is part of this rapidly growing region. Economic growth in Tuggerah is fuelled by retail, education, and service industries, alongside a strong tourism sector. Visitors significantly support the local economy, driving thousands of jobs in retail, hospitality, and accommodation.
The Entrance, known for its scenic waterways, is another thriving tourism destination. The town’s GDP grew by 2.6% in 2023, with tourism driving economic growth. The influx of visitors supports local businesses, job creation, and infrastructure development, enhancing the economic vitality of the Central Coast.
Mildura, Victoria
Population: 55,800
Annual Visitors: 287,000
Annual Economic Output: $7.3 billion
Nestled in north-western Victoria, Mildura is a thriving agricultural epicentre, celebrated for its bountiful citrus fruits, grapes, and almonds and breathtaking wineries.
Beyond its agricultural prowess, the region has undergone a renaissance, heightened by a booming tourism industry and a robust economy boasting an impressive annual economic output of $7.3 billion. An incredible $1 billion stems from manufacturing output alone.
The region’s economic vitality is intertwined with its vibrant lifestyle attractions. Access to Australia’s premier wineries, the majestic Murray River, and a rich tapestry of cultural events serve as cornerstones of Mildura’s appeal.
Shepparton, Victoria
Population: 69,135
Annual Visitors: 1 million
Annual Economic Output: $6.9 billion
Shepparton is synonymous with great food, wine, waterways and weather. The region appeals to a variety of lifestyles with urban centres and country towns all within a half hour drive of the CBD. The region has an international reputation for quality fruit and dairy products, and is also home to some of Victoria’s oldest and best wineries.
Greater Shepparton has about 6,525 businesses and a workforce of approximately 33,420 people. Health is the primary employment industry in the region, followed by retail trade, agriculture, forestry and fishing and manufacturing.
The region’s strategic location and infrastructure, including emergency response facilities, contribute to its economic growth and development.
Geelong and Surf Coast, Victoria
Population: 253,000
Annual Visitors: 6.2 million
Annual Economic Output: $23 billion
Undoubtedly, one of Victoria’s premier coastal and industry-led precincts, Geelong and surrounding coasts towns have emerged as a dynamic economic and cultural hub, experiencing significant growth and development in recent years. Greater Geelong has a population of 253,000 residents and welcomes approximately 6.2 million visitors annually.
Nearby towns including Torquay offer amazing potential and opportunities. Situated on the stunning Surf Coast of Victoria, Torquay serves as the gateway to the iconic Great Ocean Road. The town’s tourism industry supports around 2,500 jobs and generates an annual expenditure of around $300 million. This coastal town has recorded strong growth driven by its enviable lifestyle and proximity to Melbourne. While Torquay’s economy thrives on tourism, it also has a thriving large format retail sector focused on popular surf and lifestyle brands.
The Eyre Peninsula, South Australia
Population: 59,000
Annual Visitors: 495,000
Annual Economic Output: $4 billion
The Eyre Peninsula is one of South Australia’s most productive regions, generating almost $4 billion in Gross Regional Product (GRP) annually. The region’s economy is primarily driven by established agriculture, manufacturing, mining, commercial fishing, and aquaculture industries, with additional opportunities emerging in health and community services, renewable energy, hydrogen, space, and tourism.
Situated on the eastern coast of the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia, Whyalla has a population of about 22,000. The town is experiencing steady population growth, supported by its significant industrial base. Whyalla’s inclusion highlights its importance in the regional landscape, showcasing its economic contributions and potential for growth.
