Finding your place in Regional Australia: how Stay makes relocation easier

Moving to regional Australia gives you the chance to embrace a fulfilling lifestyle and rewarding career. With a unique combination of professional growth, community connection, and personal well-being on offer, the regions are drawing more Australians away from metropolitan centres each year. Yet, for many considering this shift, the question of where to live becomes a major factor in the decision-making process. That’s where the Stay service comes in, providing tailored support to help individuals and families find their footing in their new communities.

Why move to Regional Australia?

The appeal of regional Australia has never been stronger. Over 600,000 Australians moved from metropolitan areas to regional locations between 2016 and 2021, according to the Regional Australia Institute, marking a significant increase from previous years.¹ Younger Australians are leading this trend, with the proportion of 15–39-year-olds living in regional areas rising to 30% in 2023. As of May 2023, 40% of city dwellers are considering relocating to regional Australia – a clear indicator of the growing demand for a better work-life balance, affordability, and connection to community.

A Local Government career in Regional Australia

Working in Local Government in regional Australia provides unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and personal fulfilment. It’s a career path where your work has purpose, your contributions are recognised, and your lifestyle is enriched.

Accelerated career growth
In regional settings, your skills and contributions stand out, enabling you to take on broader responsibilities and gain diverse experiences more quickly than you might in a metropolitan setting. This environment fosters rapid skill development and often leads to leadership roles much sooner.

Real community impact
Every day in regional Australia, local government employees help shape the future of their communities. Whether you’re managing infrastructure projects, planning urban developments, or running community programs, your work has a tangible and meaningful impact.

A fulfilling lifestyle
Living and working in regional Australia offers a unique lifestyle that’s hard to match. Short commutes give you more time for what matters most, whether it’s spending time with family, enjoying hobbies, or simply relaxing. Affordable housing, vibrant local cultures, and access to diverse recreational activities enhance your quality of life.

Overcoming the housing challenge

One of the biggest considerations for anyone moving to regional Australia is accommodation. With tight rental markets and limited housing availability in many areas, finding a place to call home can feel overwhelming. For families, this question becomes even more pressing: Where will my family live?

To address these concerns, Stay offers a comprehensive relocation service designed to simplify the process and ensure a seamless transition for new employees and their families. By taking care of everything outside the workplace, Stay allows you to focus on settling into your role and enjoying your new community.

How Stay supports your move

The Stay service goes beyond traditional relocation assistance, offering a personalised and holistic approach to help you feel at home. From the moment you decide to relocate, Stay is there to guide you every step of the way:

• Comprehensive relocation planning: The Stay team manages every detail, from travel logistics and removals to finding housing that suits your needs.
• Community integration: They’ll help you access essential services like healthcare, childcare, and schooling, while also connecting you to local sports, recreation, and cultural activities.
• Welcome ambassadors: Dedicated community members personally welcome you, ensuring you feel included and helping you build social connections.
• Ongoing support: Stay provides regular check-ins and retention support for up to 24 months, ensuring your long-term success and happiness in your new role.

Innovative solutions

As part of its commitment to addressing housing challenges, Stay has introduced the Spare Room Initiative in Bathurst, Orange, and Parkes, NSW. This program leverages the untapped potential of nearly 60,000 spare rooms in these areas, connecting homeowners with professionals in need of accommodation. By automating contracts and rent payments, the initiative provides an innovative and practical solution to housing shortages while fostering connections between newcomers and local residents.

Making the move with confidence

Choosing a career in local government in regional Australia offers the chance to contribute meaningfully to your community while enjoying a lifestyle that prioritises balance and connection. With Stay’s support, the challenges of relocating are minimised, allowing you to embrace the opportunities of a regional lifestyle with confidence.

Whether you’re considering a role as a planner, youth worker, librarian, or engineer, regional councils provide a diverse range of career paths where your contributions truly matter. As more Australians make the move to regional areas for a better quality of life, you’ll find yourself in good company – helping to shape the future of thriving local communities.

Now is your time!

If you’ve been considering a move to regional Australia, now is the time to explore the opportunities available through local government. With the Stay service by your side, your relocation journey will be smooth and rewarding. Learn more about the benefits of working in regional councils and discover how Stay can make your transition seamless.

¹ Source: Regional Australia Institute, Big Movers 2023 Report. Available at regionalaustralia.org.au