Senior Constable Alex Sunderland, previously stationed in the picturesque Byron Bay on New South Wales’ north coast, faced mounting housing costs that prompted his departure. Despite the idyllic surroundings, he struggled with the inflated rent, which reached around $800 a week if he wanted to live independently with his dog. Opting for a transfer last April back to Broken Hill—where his policing career began five years prior—proved to be a pragmatic choice that offered significant lifestyle and financial advantages.
The move not only allowed Sunderland to access lucrative salary incentives, adding an extra $36,000 to his earnings over five years, but also provided a much lower cost of living. He noted that renting or even buying a home in Broken Hill was far more affordable compared to Byron Bay. “There’s a wealth of great rental options here, and purchasing a house can be cheaper too,” he explained.
Beyond the financial benefits, Sunderland highlighted that working in a remote area had enhanced his professional development. Without the luxury of various support units typically found in urban settings, he had to manage a wider range of responsibilities, gaining invaluable experience. “You’re pretty much it out here, handling everything yourself and witnessing more significant cases,” he said.
Research from the Regional Australia Institute (RAI) indicates Sunderland is not alone in finding financial gains outside major cities. According to the report, workers in various professions, including general practitioners and technical roles, often enjoy higher incomes in regional areas. For instance, GPs reported a salary increase of nearly 73% for working in “very remote” regions, while other professions such as sports coaches and electrical engineers also benefited financially.
RAI CEO Liz Ritchie emphasised that misconceptions about income levels being lower in regional areas are unfounded. “There are high regional incomes available in many occupations for those who look beyond metropolitan boundaries,” she noted.
The report analysed Census data alongside Australian Tax Office statistics, accounting for housing costs and demographic factors, revealing that workers in “very remote” locations could earn approximately 13.6% more than their metropolitan counterparts. However, this financial advantage diminishes in “outer regional” areas.
With Sunderland finding fulfillment in Broken Hill not only through its cost-effective lifestyle but also its natural beauty, he enjoys experiences such as starry skies free of light pollution and breathtaking sunsets. The region’s wealth of outdoor activities, including 4WD adventures and hikes rich in Aboriginal history, further enrich his life. “There’s so much to do out here,” Sunderland shared, showcasing the balance between career advancement and an enhanced lifestyle in regional Australia.