How the West Coast is luring graduates to the region

The median age on the West Coast is just over 48 years old .. that's a full decade older than the national average. So, Development West Coast decided to do something to try and keep younger locals. Five years ago it launched a scholarship scheme - up to $32,500 of value - including a guaranteed job - to six graudates who commit to returning to the Coast after university. This year saw the scheme's first recipients return .. as well as a record number of applicants for the 2026 cohort. To discuss, Jesse is joined by Development West Coast Chief Executive Heath Milne and recipient of a 2025 scholarship Maddison Scanlon.