Greater Geelong Overtakes Sunshine Coast as Top Regional Migration Destination

Greater Geelong has surpassed Queensland's Sunshine Coast as Australia's leading regional migration destination, attracting 9.3% of total regional migration inflows between March 2024 and March 2025. This shift is driven by increased movement from metropolitan areas like Sydney and Melbourne to regional locations, with Victoria capturing 34% of net regional migration inflows nationally. Geelong's growth is supported by significant government and corporate investments, including the upcoming Geelong Convention Centre and the expansion of Barwon’s Women and Children’s Hospital, alongside its strategic proximity to Melbourne and robust infrastructure. However, Greater Geelong faces challenges such as housing shortages, aging infrastructure, and congestion as it expands rapidly. The Victorian government has responded with a target to build 128,600 new homes in Greater Geelong by 2051 to meet increasing demand. Additionally, Geelong's commitment to environmental sustainability is recognized with its third consecutive 'Tree City of the World' status, highlighting its extensive urban forest and efforts to preserve natural heritage.