Buyers are exploring regional areas seeking the next farm town poised for growth – and these six have big potential.
Affordability, improved infrastructure, and the shift to flexible working mean buyers no longer need to choose between career opportunities and where they live. Quarterly internal migration data from the ABS released in March, shows a net of 7901 people moved from capital cities to the regions in the three months to September last year, demonstrating many Aussies are acting on a tree change.
Farm towns now offer the best of both worlds with easy access to nature and a strong community vibe alongside connection to modern amenities and nearby cities.
Whether it’s the rich history of Wagga Wagga in NSW, or the laid-back charm of Mount Barker in SA, these farm towns are attracting buyer interest and developers are responding to the rising demand with a wave of new housing projects either underway or in planning.
Here are six towns that have the potential to lead Australia’s next regional property boom.
Wagga Wagga, in NSW, is continuing to grow as Australians flock to the Riverina. Image: Getty
Harrisville, Queensland
Tucked in the heart of the Scenic Rim, Harrisville is emerging as a hidden gem for buyers seeking a peaceful country lifestyle within easy reach of Brisbane and Ipswich. Known for its rural charm, community spirit, and stunning natural surroundings, Harrisville offers an authentic country-town experience without feeling remote.
Now, the town is set for a new chapter of growth, thanks to QM Property’s latest residential project: Harrisville Pastures. This development offers buyers the chance to secure larger blocks of land from 4000sqm, which is perfect for those craving space, privacy, and a connection to nature.
Set against the backdrop of the Scenic Rim mountains, Harrisville Pastures is designed for families seeking to immerse themselves in nature.
Harrisville, with the land that will become Harrisville Pastures in the town's east. Image: realestate.com.au
Wagga Wagga, New South Wales
Midway between Sydney and Melbourne, Wagga Wagga is often referred to as the "unofficial capital" of the Riverina. This inland city blends the charm of regional living with the sophistication of a larger urban hub. Already well established, but continuing to attract newcomers, the Wagga Wagga City Council forecasted a population of 70,239 by the end of 2025, and a rise to 82,605 by 2046.
Although regional, Wagga has everything you can find in a bustling city with a thriving hospitality and arts scene, highly regarded schools and universities including Charles Sturt University, and a major hospital.
Locals enjoy a coffee by the picturesque Murrumbidgee River, browse the Wagga Wagga Art Gallery, or picnic in the beautiful Botanic Gardens. The town’s airport, regional rail links, and strategic location make it a practical choice for commuters and businesses alike.
With deep agricultural roots, Wagga Wagga is attracting newcomers looking for a regional lifestyle. Image: Getty
Mount Barker, South Australia
Set against the rolling hills of the Adelaide Hills region, Mount Barker is quickly becoming one of South Australia's fastest-growing lifestyle hubs.
Less than a 40-minute drive from Adelaide's CBD, it offers a peaceful country lifestyle with all the modern conveniences of a well-established town. It was also featured in the Hot 100 list as one to watch in 2025 as it has been experiencing strong population and price growth.
“This growth reflects the suburb's popularity among families and professionals, thanks to its vibrant community, access to amenities, and beautiful natural landscapes,” Ms Bianca Denham, head of performance and recognition at Ray White said.
“As the region continues to develop, Mount Barker remains an appealing choice for homebuyers and investors alike.”
Residents enjoy an ever-growing hospitality scene, boutique shopping, lush parks, and easy access to local wineries, trails, and national parks.
The town is currently undergoing major residential expansion, with new estates such as Aston Hills offering masterplanned living with parks, schools, sporting facilities, and shopping precincts built in.
Mt Barker is roughly a 40 minute drive from Adelaide's CBD. Image: Wikipedia
Colac, Victoria
Nestled between Geelong, the Great Ocean Road, and the Otways, Colac is an attractive option for those seeking a life entwined with the outdoors. Its location puts it within easy reach of pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and scenic hiking trails for endless sporting activities.
Colac is home to strong local industries including agriculture, manufacturing, and education and it’s rapidly becoming a hotspot for young families, professionals, and retirees seeking affordable living without losing connection to the outdoors.
Several developments are underway in Colac, including Emerald Estate, which is a four-minute drive from town and aimed at first-home buyers and growing families, offering generous blocks, modern home designs, and proximity to schools, shops, and recreational facilities.
On the banks of Lake Colac, this town is drawing new residents. Image: Colac Otway Shire Council
Orange, New South Wales
Set in the Central Tablelands of New South Wales, Orange is gaining attention for its unique mix of history, its thriving food and wine scene, and strong community. Many buyers from Sydney who are looking for a quieter lifestyle have set their sights on the charming country town.
From farmers’ markets to acclaimed restaurants and cellar doors, Orange offers a range of options for serious foodies who want to live remotely, but not miss out on city-standard cuisine.
New developments on the fringes of town are helping to meet increasing demand for property, with family-focussed estates offering larger blocks and thoughtfully designed homes that suit the relaxed country lifestyle. With access to schools, a hospital, and daily flights to Sydney, Orange combines big-sky living with urban comfort – making it one of the most appealing farm towns to watch in 2025.
Donnybrook, Western Australia
Located in the Southwest region of WA, Donnybrook is best known as the apple capital of the west, but it’s now emerging as a lifestyle destination for those wanting space, charm, and community. Just 30 minutes drive from Bunbury and two hours from Perth, Donnybrook may be regional, but is within easy reach of the city centres.
The town is surrounded by fertile farmland, rolling hills, and wineries, and it’s becoming increasingly popular with families, hobby farmers, and remote workers.
Land developments around the town are beginning to pick up, with generous lots and more affordable housing options than coastal WA hubs where the median house price is $650,000.
The apple capital of the west, Donnybrook is attracting new residents to this agricultural town. Image: Getty
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