A regional Queensland town is offering up to A$20,000 (~US$13,668) in grants to entice newcomers to relocate, build homes, and contribute to boosting its population.
At a Glance
- Quilpie, about 600 miles from Brisbane, will pay A$20,000 (~US$13,668) for new residents who build and live on purchased land for at least six months.
- The initiative aims to grow Quilpie’s population from roughly 800 to 1,000.
- To qualify, residents must commit to building a permanent dwelling on land bought within the town limits.
- The grant originally started at A$10,000 and increased to match rising land valuations.
- This marks the latest global push by remote towns to fill seats with financial incentives.
Quilpie’s Bold Relocation Offer
The Home Owner Grant Scheme by Quilpie Shire Council offers A$20,000 to individuals or families who purchase land, build a home, and live there for at least six months. The initiative, which began in 2021 with a A$10,000 incentive, was doubled in response to rising land values and sustained interest.
Council officials say the town’s population had dipped below 710, and the goal is to attract new permanent residents to maintain local services and economic vibrancy. Infrastructure and broadband access have already drawn applicants from as far as the U.S., Ireland, and Japan.
Watch a report: Employee Relocation Incentive Scheme Explained.
Eligibility and Grant Structure
To qualify for the grant, applicants must:
- Purchase land within the Quilpie municipal boundary.
- Build a permanent, livable structure on that land.
- Reside in the completed home for at least six months.
Once these conditions are met, the A$20,000 payment is disbursed directly to the applicant. According to Australia’s regional development guidelines, the initiative aligns with broader national efforts to decentralize population growth and strengthen rural economies.
Global Trend: Pay-to-Move Incentives
Quilpie joins a growing list of communities offering cash to combat depopulation. Similar efforts in Italy and Spain involve symbolic property sales and startup grants, while parts of the U.S. heartland offer tax credits, relocation bonuses, and even remote worker packages.
In Australia, other state-funded schemes provide up to A$13,000 to healthcare and skilled workers willing to move to underpopulated areas, helping to close workforce gaps while revitalizing local economies.
If you’re ready for sun, space, and a fresh start, Quilpie’s offer could be your next frontier.
