Nonpermanent Residents, Place Attachment, and “Sea Change” Communities

Abstract

Rapid population growth and an increase in the number of nonresident second-home owners are altering the environmental, social, and economic stability of many Australian seaside communities. The impact of the growing proportion of nonpermanent residents in these regions has not yet been subject to much research. This article explores the usefulness of place attachment to provide insight into the actions and behavior of second-home owners. Place attachment, or human-place bonding, has been linked to positive behaviors such as environmental conservation, volunteering, and the reverse of neighbourhood decline. This article examines second-home owners' sense of place attachment in Western Australia's Augusta–Margaret River region. Findings indicate positive relationships between levels of place attachment, the amount of time spent in the region, support of local businesses, and contributions to community through membership in voluntary organizations. The relevance of supporting the place attachment of nonpermanent residents in rapidly developing coastal areas is discussed.