If you’ve been following Australian news in 2026, headlines about people “leaving in droves” or a “Great Australian Exit” have popped up a lot. While net overseas migration stays positive—meaning more people arrive than leave overall—departures have climbed noticeably since the post-pandemic peak. In 2024-25, migrant departures hit around 263,000, up 13% from the year before, and trends suggest hundreds of thousands could leave in 2026 when you count citizens, former migrants, and temporary visa holders heading out. The “millions” figure often mixes internal moves (people shifting within Australia) with overseas exits, plus some exaggeration in viral stories. Still, the uptick in outflows is real, driven by high living costs, housing pressures, a cooling job market for some sectors, and a pull toward cheaper or more relaxed lifestyles abroad. Here’s a clear look at what’s happening and the main spots people are heading to.
What’s Driving the Outflow in 2026?
Australia’s population keeps growing—hitting around 27.6 million by mid-2025 and heading toward 28 million in 2026—but migration patterns have shifted. Net overseas migration eased to about 305,000 in 2024-25 and is forecast to drop further to around 260,000 for 2025-26.
The rise in departures comes from:
- Temporary visa holders (like students and working holiday makers) finishing up and going home after borders reopened.
- Young Australians and families seeking better affordability or work-life balance overseas.
- Some citizens/PRs moving for lifestyle, remote work options, or lower costs.
Many aren’t leaving permanently—some go for a year or two—but the “churn” is higher than pre-COVID levels.
Where Are They Going Overseas?
Australians heading abroad in 2026 often pick places with warm weather, lower daily costs, established expat scenes, or easy access. Southeast Asia tops the list for many, followed by Europe and the Middle East for lifestyle seekers.
Popular overseas destinations include:
- Indonesia (especially Bali) — Beaches, relaxed vibe, affordable living, and big Aussie expat communities make it a go-to for digital nomads, retirees, and families.
- Thailand — Similar appeal with low costs, great food, and visa options for longer stays.
- Portugal — Europe favorite for milder climate, lower property prices, and digital nomad visas.
- Dubai (UAE) — Tax-free income, modern lifestyle, and job opportunities in finance/tech draw professionals.
- Other mentions: Vietnam, Spain, or New Zealand for closer cultural ties and easier moves.
These spots offer better value for money compared to Sydney or Melbourne rents and living expenses.
Internal Moves Within Australia
A big chunk of the “leaving” talk is actually people relocating inside the country—not overseas. Coastal and regional areas see inflows while some major cities or resource towns lose residents.
- People move to places like Southeast Queensland, Tasmania, regional Victoria, or the Gold/Sunshine Coasts for affordability, climate, or lifestyle.
- Outflows hit spots with high costs, insurance issues from climate risks, or declining industries.
This domestic shift adds to the sense of movement without crossing borders.
Other Related Adjustments
Government forecasts show net migration slowing as temporary arrivals drop and departures stay elevated. Policies like tighter student visas and skilled migration caps aim to manage inflows, but outflows reflect personal choices more than rules.
- Housing and cost-of-living pressures push some young people or families to seek alternatives.
- Remote work lets more Aussies test living abroad without fully cutting ties.
The overall picture: Australia remains a net gainer of people, but the balance is tilting with more exits contributing to slower growth.
The idea of “millions leaving Australia in 2026” mixes real trends with some hype—departures are up (hundreds of thousands annually), but net migration stays positive, and population growth continues toward 28 million. Many are heading to Southeast Asia hotspots like Bali and Thailand for affordability and lifestyle, or to Europe/Middle East options like Portugal and Dubai. Others simply move regionally within Australia for similar reasons. It’s less a mass exodus and more a sign of Aussies chasing better value, work flexibility, or change amid high costs at home. If you’re thinking about moving, check current visa rules and costs—trends show people are voting with their feet for places that feel more attainable right now.
