From its booming population and economic growth, incredible amenities and attractions that locals love, and accessibility to bustling Melbourne via roads and an efficient rail connection, the historic Ballarat is an easy option for anyone considering a regional lifestyle change, as well as those who desire to get into the investing game.

There aren’t many regional towns in Victoria, let alone Australia for that matter, that have as much going for it as Ballarat. Located 115 km west of Melbourne’s CBD, Ballarat has the perfect blend of history and modern living, for as many exciting and eye-catching tourist attractions as the town offers (see Sovereign Hill, Ballarat Wildlife Park, Ballarat Botanical Gardens, etc...), there are even more renowned schools, scenic parklands, prominent restaurants and shopping options that residents absolutely adore.

‘I’ve experienced both city and regional living, having resided in metropolitan Melbourne and here in Ballarat, and I can say that the lifestyle here is one I think is much more appealing,’ said Josh Coull, Real Estate Consultant at Barry Plant Ballarat. ‘Our kids have truly flourished here, just with the ease of access to facilities as well as great schools. It’s the perfect area for families who are looking to make a move away from the hustle and bustle of city life!’

Here are a few reasons why you need to seriously consider living or investing in Ballarat!

The regional population is booming

Ballarat’s LGA has a population of 113,000, with Western Victoria as a whole topping the 250,000 population mark. By 2036, the population is estimated to be over 136,000, which makes Ballarat one of the fastest-growing LGAs in all of Victoria. This ever-rising population means that it couldn’t be a better time to secure a property in the area, as with more people comes more infrastructure, and of course, more demand for housing which will inevitably increase the median house pricing over the years to come.

The creative heart of Western Victoria

From the Art Gallery of Ballarat which is Australia’s oldest regional gallery, to colourful street murals, live music events, and eclectic exhibitions, Ballarat leads the way in regional Victoria when it comes to all things arts and culture. Every year thousands of visitors flock to the Ballarat region and are joined by eager local residents to enjoy the permanent attractions and wide range of events.

Ballarat is also halfway through a ‘10-year Events Strategy, with the aim of this strategy to increase tourism visitation, support Ballarat’s liveability and community pride, and contribute to building the city’s perception and improving Ballarat’s competitive strengths and unique qualities.

The region has also become known for its culinary exploits, offering everything from world-class restaurants to brilliant casual dining. Ballarat Unlocked will be part of the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival in November 2023, and offers local experiences from dining in the mines, to gin and beer tastings as well as a dining event on Lake Wendouree.

An employment hub that is on the rise

With approximately 9,000 businesses in the Ballarat LGA which has led to a workforce topping 55,000 people, there is no sign of anything slowing down when it comes to Ballarat as a major employment hub.

The Ballarat West Employment Zone (BWEZ), located in Mitchell Park on the north-west fringe of Ballarat (adjacent to the Ballarat Airport) is the centrepiece for the region's thriving employment. BWEZ is slated to be the engine room for jobs and economic growth in the area for the next two decades, with a wealth of plans for a variety of new businesses to move to the BWEZ and utilise everything it has to offer.

Where minds are shaped

The range of renowned primary and secondary schools in Ballarat is growing, with Ballarat Clarendon College, Ballarat Grammar, and Loreto College all leading the way in terms of median ATAR scores. Federation University has also become one of Victoria’s leading learning institutions and is committed to training and supporting local industries while also having relationships with research and development partners. The university has also developed the Asia Pacific Renewable Energy Training Centre to provide cutting-edge training for Victoria’s booming renewable energy sector. Australian Catholic University is another celebrated university in the Ballarat region.

Healthcare facilities that truly help residents

Ballarat has one of regional Australia’s best and most comprehensive health services and facilities, including Grampians Health Services, St John of God Hospital, and Ballarat Community Health, which all offer first-class extensive care to the Ballarat and western region communities.

Ballarat is also home to Australia’s only regionally-based cancer research centre, the Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, which is making a world-class contribution to cancer research.