The objective of this research is to develop a prototype Web geographical information system (GIS) for mapping data on quality of life (QOL) derived from a survey of residents in South East Queensland (SEQ) conducted in 2003. Street addresses of respondents have been geocoded using a national digital street dataset. Our application, which integrates GIS functionality, client/server technology and the Internet, can generate maps to examine and present spatial patterns and level of QOL of residents in both SEQ as a region, and in the suburbs across SEQ. Using cluster analysis, downshifters – people who voluntarily make a long-term change in their lifestyle following the decision to “downshift”, other than planned retirement, which reduces their income, are categorised. Principal component analysis was used to enable performance of statistical local areas (SLAs) against three perceived factors of neighbourhood attractiveness including aesthetic, amenity, or social interaction. Spatial patterns of downshifters and neighbourhood attractiveness can be visualised via the Web browser. Our research demonstrates the usefulness and appeal of the Web GIS application as an information dissemination tool for promoting public awareness of some attributes (e.g. lifestyle, etc.) of the SEQ region that might relate to specific aspects of living. Using such a Web-based spatial system, people can identify preferred areas based on lifestyle choices and their decisions to move into certain areas can be seen to be based on preference, capacity and lifecycle stage.