Hunter is on the Map for Skilled Workers as Regional Shift Accelerates

New research highlights rising confidence, population movement and economic depth across the Hunter. The Hunter region is shaking off old stereotypes and stepping into a new identity – as a destination for skilled work, innovation and long-term opportunity.

New research from NGM Group – the customer owned bank behind Greater Bank and Newcastle Permanent – points to growing momentum in regional communities across the country, as Australians follow opportunity beyond the capitals.

The national YouGov survey, the second in NGM Group’s What Matters Most research series, reveals Australians increasingly view the regions as not only a great place to live, but as central to the country’s economic future – with new industries, diverse jobs, and smarter ways of working.

Nearly three in four Australians (71%) believe regional areas are no longer defined by traditional industries, while an overwhelming majority (89%) say innovation and emerging sectors are vital to the future of regional Australia.

James Cudmore, Chief Customer and Digital Innovation Officer at NGM Group, said the national findings are clearly reflected in the Hunter.

“We’re seeing a new kind of momentum in regional Australia, one driven by ideas, investment and skilled people making deliberate decisions about where they want to live and work,” Mr Cudmore said.

“That momentum is clearly playing out in the Hunter. It’s an exciting time for the region, with investment, capability and skilled professionals choosing to build their careers locally.”

Two-thirds of Hunter residents (66%) say new people have moved into their local community in the past year, including 36% who say a lot of new people have arrived.

Nearly half (47%) of Hunter residents say they plan to stay where they are over the next five years, reinforcing strong confidence in the region’s direction.

That local optimism is also reflected in workforce perceptions, with 73% of Hunter residents believing regional areas are attracting more highly skilled and professional workers than in previous years.

Recent KPMG projections indicate approximately 43,000 new jobs1 are expected to be created in the Hunter over the next five years, driven by continued diversification and the transition toward renewable energy, advanced manufacturing and health services.

“In regions like the Hunter, ambition is being matched by opportunity. Legacy industries remain important, but the depth and diversity developing across the local economy is what’s reinforcing long-term confidence,” Mr Cudmore said.