The Deloitte Access Economics’ It’s Happening, Victoria report released on Thursday afternoon states that well-planned growth and investment in regional cities should play a major role in Victoria’s economic future. 

By looking at 15 different factors including health and education, the report shows Ballarat, Bendigo and Geelong are comparatively well connected to critical infrastructure, including rail, roads, internet and mobile coverage.

With each major regional city now acting as a hub for higher education and health services, but providing ‘bang for your buck’ housing affordability, the research states Ballarat is now a better option than much of Melbourne’s high-density living or urban fringe areas.

The report also found Melbourne’s continued outward sprawl is forcing disadvantaged families to pay the most for transport and other essential services when they can least afford it. 

Regional Cities Victoria chairwoman Margaret O’Rourke said the coalition of councils, of which Ballarat is a part, would continue advocating on the benefits of regional Victorian living as a “great lifestyle alternative to Melbourne”.

“However, continued investment in the regions from State and Federal governments is critical to ensuring that they thrive both economically and socially into the future and can play an active role in easing the pressure on metropolitan areas,” she said. 

Deloitte Access Economics partner Dr Daniel Terrill said in a statement that developing regional cities means an alleviation of some of Melbourne’s growing pains, as well as better quality of life for residents and workers. 

It follows state opposition leader Matthew Guy’s announcement on Thursday that Victoria's population would be controlled by a commissioner who could dictate where migrants would reside – with greater emphasis on regional areas – with reduce metro congestion.