Country Change January Update
L-R Sara Johnston, Communications Coordinator, Country Change, and Amanda Cappello, Operations Manager
2025 was a milestone year for Country Change, with strong interest form individuals and families seeking a fresh start in the Riverina and Murray regions. At the centre of this work is Sara Johnston, our Communications Coordinator. Sara brings together community stories, program information, event planning and organisation, and regional insights to help people understand what a Country Change could look like for them. Her work ensures that the information we share is clear, accessible, and genuinely helpful for those considering a move.
Country Change is a resident-attraction initiative designed to help people make informed decisions about relocating to the Riverina-Murray. It provides practical, easy-to-understand information about the benefits of regional living, including:
Career and business opportunities across a diverse range of industries.
Housing and affordability, showcasing the value regional communities offer.
Education options, including schools, childcare, and local training pathways.
Lifestyle benefits, such as space, community, shorter commutes, and a healthier pace of life.
Community insights that give potential movers a real sense of belonging before they even arrive.
The Country Change website includes interactive maps, case studies, and practical relocation resources that help people compare different towns, understand services, and explore what each part of the region has to offer.
A core part of the program is sharing genuine experiences from locals and new residents. Through Meet a Local, readers can explore real-life stories from people who have already made the move, offering honest insights into work, community life, housing, and settling in. The Country Change Magazine brings these stories together into a beautifully presented guide full of inspiration, advice, and examples of what regional living can offer.
As part of the 2025 program year we successfully organised and facilitated two Country Change Expos, one in Wagga Wagga and one in Griffith. These events brought together councils, employers, community groups, and new residents to help potential movers learn more about:
Employment opportunities
Local industry
Housing options
Education pathways
Services and supports available
Community culture and lifestyle
Across both locations, the expos provided valuable chances for attendees to connect in person, ask questions, and gain a real feel for life in the Riverina-Murray. They created opportunities for genuine conversations, practical insights, and meaningful connections, making the idea of a Country Change feel more personal, achievable, and exciting for those considering a move.
In 2026, Country Change will continue supporting individuals and families exploring a regional lifestyle by sharing authentic stories, offering practical information, and promoting the many strengths of the Riverina-Murray. With Sara’s coordination and strong collaboration across the region, we look forward to inspiring and welcoming even more people to experience the space, opportunity, and connection that country living provides.
To learn more about Country Change, browse resources, and discover what regional living has to offer, use the button below.
