Affordable cost of living

The cost of living in regional areas is generally lower than in urban areas. Bigger cities like Sydney and Melbourne have increased demand for rent, meaning that accommodation in these cities is expensive. So, whether you want to live in student accommodation or a shared house, consider how much you could save by living in a regional area.

Relaxed lifestyle

Australia is known for its laidback lifestyle with a ‘no worries’ attitude. Studying and living in a regional area will give you a fantastic opportunity to experience this Australian attitude. Explore like a local in your spare time with endless pristine sandy beaches, rolling hills and iconic ‘bush’ – so much beauty to discover. What more could you ask for from your international study experience?!

Employment opportunities 

There are high chances you’ll source employment locally upon completion of your studies – something that isn’t always as easy in cities. If you are studying part-time, you can also work locally doing fruit-picking or farm work. The number of job opportunities may be lower in regional areas; however, there are also fewer people to compete with for that dream job. It’s often easier to build meaningful connections with people in regional communities too, so tap into your network when you seek work.

Incentives for regional study

The Australian Government has some incentives to encourage international students to study and live in regional Australia. From skilled visas that provide a pathway to permanent residence to additional points on the Skilled Migration Points Test – there are now more opportunities than ever for those who choose to study in regional Australia.

Sense of community

Often, what draws people to studying in regional Australia is the sense of community. When you enrol in a course with a smaller institution, you’ll likely know the names of everyone in your class and develop a strong bond with your classmates. This helps create a ‘home away from home’ sense of belonging, making it easier to find friends, settle in, and join a significant support network. 

Source: INSIDER GUIDES