Curtin University researchers are undertaking a study to determine what motivates an increasing number of Australians to move to Bali.
The online survey examines the factors behind why Australians decide to migrate, their choice of Bali as a destination, and their future migration intentions – either to return to Australia or migrate elsewhere.
The project is headed by Dr Amanda Davies, lecturer in Curtin’s School of Built Environment, with Dr Aileen Hoath from Curtin’s Graduate School of Business a co-investigator.
“Figures indicate that more than 10,000 Australians live permanently in Bali, and many more live on the island for part of the year,” Dr Davies said.
“It is thought that the affordable housing and lifestyle, climate, and beaches are amongst the attractions for Australians.”
Dr Davies said a host of other factors appear to be motivating Australians to relocate to Bali, adding that migration takes on a variety of forms.
“Some move to be on a ‘permanent holiday’ while others are attracted by the potential business opportunities that accompany the growing expatriate population.
“There are those who sell their car, home and even give up their jobs to achieve their dream. Others might rent out their home and continue working in Australia, either as part of the ‘fly-in-fly-out’ workforce or logging in remotely from Bali.”
The Curtin study will investigate the patterns, frequency and reasons why Australians decide to migrate to Bali.
It will also assess how migrants navigate the complex social, economic, aesthetic, cultural and political factors that influence their migration decisions.
The survey will be available to complete on the Curtin website between 16 June and 25 July.
The survey findings will be presented and discussed at a public lecture at Curtin in late 2014.
