Regional migration is a longstanding element of Australia’s migration program and an important contributor to social and economic policy objectives. However, the regional elements of migration policy have often been developed in a reactionary manner, without well-formed objectives and in-depth evaluation of policy impact. As a result, regional migration policy continues to lack a clear and enduring approach to guide its development, implementation and improvement over time. Fortunately, the same general objectives hold for regional and national migration policy. Rather than a fundamental realignment of objectives, achieving better regional migration outcomes simply means placing regional outcomes—including regions within Australia’s major metropolitan areas—on an equal footing with national outcomes. Poorly distributed migration is an agent of inequality. Improving distribution through better policy provides an opportunity for migration to better improve economic opportunity, work against further geographic inequality and better promote social cohesion and diversity across Australia. A regular assessment reviewing the needs and effectiveness of migration flows into each region in Australia is proposed to guide and inform policy makers. The activation and coordination of interventions across three levels of government can also support better implementation and outcomes for different communities.