The government is considering developing new visa rules that will see migrants encouraged to live in regional Australia.
It comes amid an increasingly heated debate over our growing population, which is expected to rise from 24 million to 36 million by 2046, sparking concern among some critics over the impact on our cities.
Citizenship Minister Alan Tudge said migrants are sponsored for permanent residence on the basis of an intent to live and work in regional Australia, however an increasing number of migrants are leaving these communities once receiving permanency - contributing to a widespread, regional labour shortage.