Research confirms regional shift a popular move

Sunday 22 April 2012

Up to two million Melburnians would consider moving to country Victoria for a better quality of life, according Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional and Rural Development, Peter Ryan.

Mr Ryan referenced the findings of independent research just released by the Victorian Government at today’s launch of the inaugural Regional Victoria Living Expo today at Queen Victoria Market.

The comprehensive study by Victorian firm, ShopScience, was based on a survey of more than 2,000 adults currently living in Melbourne.

The study was commissioned by the Victorian Government in the lead up to the Regional Victoria Living Expo which will be held from 27-29 April at the Melbourne Conference and Exhibition Centre.

“What the outcomes of this research tells us is that more Melburnians are considering alternatives to life in the big city,” Mr Ryan said.

“The results also make it clear and that now is the perfect time to hold the first Regional Victoria Living Expo to help encourage them to make the move to country Victoria,” Mr Ryan said.

“Eleven per cent of respondents, which represents around 450,000 Melburnians, said they would consider relocating to a regional or rural area within the next three years,” Mr Ryan said.

“A further 39 per cent, or 1.6 million, said a move is something they would consider ‘one day’ in the future.

“These are fascinating results that tell us that many people have a very positive view of life in regional and rural areas and they want to be a part of it.

“Even if just a percentage of this number actually make the move, it will have significant benefits for our regional communities and help take the pressure off Melbourne.”

Director of ShopScience, Mark Fletcher, said the research highlighted many reasons why people were interested in moving to regional and rural Victoria including having a greater sense of involvement in the community.

Mr Ryan indicated that one of the best ways to achieve this for people moving to the country was to join in local arts and cultural events similar to those which accompanied today’s expo launch.

“Arts and culture in our regions is alive and kicking,” Mr Ryan said.

“The diverse cultural program before the expo will be a colourful and engaging way to demonstrate this, from diverse cultural performances by country Victorians to short films and documentaries screened about life in regional Victoria.

“The program will be an exciting prelude to the comprehensive regional and rural experience of the expo itself.”

Mr Ryan said the Regional Victoria Living Expo will be a one-stop-shop for anyone about to make the move.

“The Regional Victoria Living Expo will present information on everything including careers and education, housing, businesses, lifestyle opportunities and relocation services,” Mr Ryan said.

“The best of regional and rural Victoria will be on show under the one roof, with each of Victoria’s 48 regional councils on hand to share advice, resources and answer visitor questions.

“The Expo will feature more than 100 exhibitors who are ready and willing to discuss the unique lifestyle benefits of a particular region.”

Mr Ryan said among the attractions of the expo will be an extensive series of arts and cultural performances.

“Of course, the cultural wealth of the country is just one of the things that make regional and rural Victoria such a vibrant and exciting place to live, with vast opportunities for people of all ages,” Mr Ryan said.

“Many Melburnians have considered relocating to regional Victoria for family or business reasons and the Regional Victoria Living Expo may be the very boost they need to make the move.”

Visit here to discover more about the 2012 Regional Victoria Living Expo