New data from the Regional Australia Institute shows the bulk of new Ballarat residents are in the 20 to 39-year-old age bracket.
It also shows many are deserting Melbourne’s outer suburbs, including Melton and Wyndham.
The Committee for Ballarat’s Michael Poulton says they’re coming to Ballarat for a Melbourne-style vibe, without the complications.
“They’re not necessarily after a large two-or-three-acre property with the pool and the horse paddock, they’re actually looking for urban-type living,” he said.
“They’re looking for in-the-city apartment dwellings and they want to be able to access all the things the city has to offer on their doorstep.”