People living on the edges of Melbourne are much less likely to move than those close to the city, Australian Bureau of Statistics data has revealed.
Latest migration figures show Hume, at 5.5 per cent, had the state’s second-lowest departure rate in 2013-14.
The rate in the Macedon Ranges was 5.9 per cent (fifth overall). Whittlesea had the lowest percentage of people leaving in 2013-14, with a departure rate of 4.8 per cent.
Polly Woodward, who moved to Sunbury about eight years ago, said that, like many people, affordability had drawn her to the area. But she said a strong sense of community meant she would stay.
‘‘I found it hard when I first moved here, but once I got involved in the community it really became home,’’ Ms Woodward said.
‘‘There’s so much to do and get involved in. I can’t ever see myself leaving now.’’
She said the need for better public transport, to ease people’s reliance on cars, was among the area’s most pressing needs.
‘‘Fortunately, I don’t often have to catch the train, but when I do it’s usually packed,’’ Ms Woodward said.
Hume mayor Adem Atmaca said he wasn’t surprised people didn’t leave. ‘‘Hume is one of the most welcoming communities in Australia,” he said.
“It’s home to people from all over the world. It’s a great place to live and has something for everyone.
“You don’t have to travel far for somewhere great to take the family,” he said.
‘‘Since Hume is home to a range of industries, many of our residents work close to home and that offers a fantastic lifestyle.’’
Melbourne (12.6 per cent), Port Phillip (11.1), Yarra (10.9) and Maribyrnong (10.3) had the state’s highest departure rates.
