The great migration from Australia’s cities to the regions shows no sign of slowing, and flexible work remains at the heart of the shift. What began as a pandemic necessity has evolved into a long-term lifestyle change, reshaping demand for rural properties nationwide.
A New Lifestyle Equation
For many Australians, the ability to work remotely has dissolved the once-rigid link between career and geography. Families who previously felt tethered to Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane are increasingly weighing up the benefits of space, affordability, and lifestyle in regional towns and acreage estates.
Industry data confirms the shift. CoreLogic figures show that rural and regional property values have grown faster than many capital city markets since 2020, with lifestyle acreage and small farms leading the charge. Buyers are prepared to trade a shorter commute for rolling paddocks, larger homes, and the ability to raise animals or even start a small business.
Why Acreage Appeals to Remote Workers
The rise in acreage demand isn’t simply about bigger blocks. Remote workers are looking for properties that provide a balanced environment—space for home offices, reliable internet access, and the freedom of outdoor living. For families, the promise of raising children with room to roam has been a major drawcard.
Agents report that buyers now come with checklists that include strong NBN or Starlink connections, sheds that can be converted into studios, and properties within 90 minutes of a significant city for occasional commutes. The dream of a home office with a view over gum trees or paddocks is now very much mainstream.
Challenges on the Horizon
Yet, the transition is not without hurdles. Rising rural land prices have created affordability issues in popular “tree-change” regions such as the Southern Highlands, Sunshine Coast hinterland, and parts of regional Victoria. Infrastructure and healthcare access also remain concerns for those moving away from major centres.
Moreover, the permanence of work-from-home arrangements is not guaranteed. While many large employers have adopted hybrid policies, some are urging workers back into offices, particularly in financial and corporate sectors. Buyers making the shift must weigh the risk of changing workplace expectations against the lure of rural living.
Outlook: A Lasting Trend?
Despite these challenges, most analysts believe the demand for rural living will endure. The pandemic accelerated a cultural revaluation of space, well-being, and work-life balance. Technology has closed the gap between city and country in ways that would have been unimaginable even a decade ago.
For now, acreage remains one of the most sought-after property types in Australia. Whether buyers are seeking a small horse property, a lifestyle farm, or simply room to breathe, the work-from-home revolution has redefined the rural market. As one agent in Queensland put it: “We used to sell the dream of acreage living. Now, for many buyers, it’s the new normal.”