Australians shun move to regions

CAIRNS holds its own compared to other regional centres in attracting talented workers despite a recent report showing many professionals would rather move overseas than a few hours down the road for job opportunities.

A survey of 4800 Australians by SEEK found just under two in five workers would consider relocating to a regional area for work.

The key reasons for a move included change of pace and more affordable living. Main arguments against included wanting to be in or near a major city, and not wanting to uproot family. Almost half said a pay increase would make them consider relocating, while 27 per cent said they would consider such a move if they were very passionate about the role or the business.

Greater Northern Australia Regional Training Network executive director Dr Scott Davis said regional communities needed to build a critical mass of professionals to keep attracting talent.

“Once you find you get a critical mass, that attracts others who want to work with the best in the business,” he said.

“Often the narrative around regional communities is about the deficit we have but I have argued that regional communities have plenty of opportunities and are really critical drivers around innovation.

“Cairns is really uniquely placed because of the international airport and proximity to Asia and the great opportunities around development of Northern Australia.”

“I think we’re doing better than many but there is still a lot we can do ... to remind people that regional communities have a lot to offer.”