• Australia

Benefits of Studying in Regional Australia

2323 Reads
3 min Read

By:CANAM Group
Updated On:May 15,2024 04:28 PM IST

Regional Australian cities are a perfect blend of quality education, affordability, and an eventful student life.
You can get an additional year of post-study work permit after studying in regional Australia.
Out of the top 100 QS Ranked universities, four are located in regional Australia.
Regional Australia is heaven for nature lovers, whether you love hiking, skydiving, or are a beach lover.

Benefits of studying in regional australia.webp

Have you ever imagined the possibility of studying in a vibrant campus surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, and filled with adventures? Well, there is a way to turn this imagination into reality. Australia offers a golden opportunity for international students who aspire to combine academics with an adventure-filled life. Whether you prefer to study in metropolitan cities like Melbourne and Sydney or in regional Australia outside the city center, the country caters to numerous study benefits.

A huge class of international students every year choose Australia as their ultimate study destination. India is among the top countries, sending more than 1,25,000 students in 2023. Moreover, this number reached 1,09,000 in just two months in 2024. So, like lakhs of these students, do you also want to live your Aussie dream? Well then Congratulations! You are at the right place. Welcome to the world of smaller Australian cities—a hidden gem for international students seeking excellence, affordability, and a unique student experience.

Let’s explore why regional Australia could be a fantastic choice for you!

Benefits of Studying in Regional Australian Cities

Attention all students! Are you unsure about where to live and study in Australia? Don't worry! You can choose to experience the serene life of regional cities or the excitement of big-city life in Australia. However, if you're looking for some help making that choice, we have a list of benefits associated with studying & living in regional Australia.

High-Quality Education

Universities located in cities like townsville and brisbane in regional Australia offers international students various study programs in the fields of agriculture, forestry, marine sciences, etc. These cities are home to high-quality Australian universities that often excel in specialized areas of study. Universities in regional Australia offer a wide range of courses with smaller class sizes, allowing for personalized attention and a better student-teacher ratio.

A few facts and benefits of studying in Australia are: -

Australia offers plethora of bachelor's & master's programs tailored to every profile.
Australian institutions offer guaranteed scholarships and chance to ease out the financial burden while studying and exploring the regional Australia.
Australia houses the Group of Eight (Go8), which comprises Australia’s leading research-intensive universities.
Out of these eight universities 7 are among the top 100 QS-ranked Universities worldwide and four lie in regional Australia.

Employment Opportunities

Healthcare, education, agriculture, and tourism are the major sectors that offer a wide range of job opportunities in regional Australia to the international students. With access to the Regional Occupations List, you can find more job opportunities there than in non-regional areas. Plus, if you complete a bachelor's or higher degree from a regional institution, you can gain an additional year in Australia on a post-work visa.

Moreover, you may face less competition for jobs in smaller towns, giving you a greater chance to kick-start your career. Embracing the opportunities available in rural settings can provide you with valuable work experience and a pathway to long-term success.

The main advantages of working in smaller Australian cities include: -

An additional year of post-study work permit for students in regional Australia.
Education and training providers in smaller cities are very well connected to local businesses and industry sectors.
Skill Occupations List for regional areas includes diverse career prospects than for non-regional areas.
With lower competition, you can easily find part-time jobs and flexible work hours in cities like Perth, Brisbane, Tasmania, etc.

Affordable Accommodation

Studying in regional Australia is a wise decision for international students seeking a fulfilling and affordable academic option. In smaller towns and communities, the cost of living is significantly lower than in major cities. This means you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without straining your finances with rent, food, and transportation expenses.

With lower accommodation costs, you can focus on your studies without financial stress. Therefore, opting for education in regional Australia is a win-win situation. You can enjoy a fantastic academic experience at an affordable price, allowing you to focus on your studies while building valuable skills and immersing yourself in a new culture.

A few facts and financial benefits of studying in regional Australia are: -

You can find premium housing for less than AUD 1000 in towns like Townsville.
You can carry a student card to avail of discounts on different items and utilities.
Commuting charges in regional Australia are much lower than those in cities.
You can avoid long traffic jams and crowded streets.

The following table shows the city-wise living costs in Australia to give you a better idea about which area or city you should opt for to study in Australia.

Name of the City	Average Monthly Living Costs(AUD)
Gold Coast	1300 - 1600 AUD
Canberra	1400 - 1800 AUD
Perth	2000 - 2100 AUD
Brisbane	2000 - 2100 AUD
Sydney	2200 - 2500 AUD
Melbourne	2300 - 2500 AUD

*The costs above are not constant and are subject to change according to your lifestyle, cities, and many other factors.

Nature and Adventure

If you're looking for a place that combines modern amenities with a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere, regional Australian cities are the answer. Unlike the hustle and bustle of urban areas, you'll find much less commotion and more opportunities to enjoy Australia's natural beauty in regional Australia. With stunning beaches, hiking trails, waterfalls, and rainforests, you can take refreshing study breaks amidst nature and go on exciting weekend adventures.

Whether it's the tropical beaches of Queensland or an adventurous trip to the Northern Territory, regional Australia has something for everyone.

The city outside the city center is a perfect place for nature lovers. Here you can: -

Enjoy friendlier, more personal interactions with locals; perfect for networking and future opportunities.
Immerse yourself in unique local events like rodeos, agricultural shows, and heritage festivals.
Experience breathtaking natural scenery and rare outdoor activities, including stargazing with minimal light pollution.

Community Connections

Living in regional Australia is a great way to know the true Australian way of life. It's not only about learning about the local traditions, festivals, and customs but also about enjoying a quieter life away from the busy cities. Small towns in Australia are famous for their close-knit communities and strong support networks. This is perfect for international students looking for a welcoming and supportive place to live.

Getting involved with the people and joining local events can help you make lifelong friends and enrich your understanding of the culture. Also, knowing local businesses and professionals can open up opportunities for your career, helping you to grow professionally.

In essence, choosing to live in regional Australia helps you to:

Experience unique local traditions, festivals, and customs.
Build strong ties within supportive and inclusive regional communities.
Foster lasting friendships and enrich your cultural experience through active community participation.
Enhance career prospects through valuable networking opportunities with local businesses and professionals.

Now, after learning about the compelling reasons, it's time to find out the best institution in regional Australia tailored to your needs. The upcoming section can be the magical wand unlocking your Aussie academic success.

Top Universities in Regional Australia

Regional Australia is renowned for providing top-notch education and houses numerous globally acclaimed universities. These universities offer a wide range of courses and are recognized for their research contributions, varied student population, and strong connections with local communities. Students studying in Australian universities get to experience life in regional Australia while enjoying a world-class education. The following table highlights the area-wise universities along with the top courses you can study.

Regional Area	Top Universities	Top Courses
New South Wales (NSW)	University of Wollongong Charles Sturt University Southern Cross University	Nursing Communication Environmental Science Health and Education Business
Northern Australia	Charles Darwin University	Nursing Education Community services IT Accounting Engineering
Queensland	The University of Queensland Griffith University James Cook University	Psychology Hospitality and Leisure Management Mineral and Mining Engineering Environmental Sciences Nursing Agriculture and Forestry
South Australia	Flinders University University of South Australia The University of Adelaide	Creative Arts and Media Nursing Medicine Law and Criminology Business Environmental and Social Sciences
Western Australia (WA)	The University of Western Australia Edith Cowan University Curtin University	Engineering Science Nursing Education Finance Environment and Business Management

Experience the best of regional Australia, where affordable living meets intimate learning environments and cultural immersion. Step out of the city buzz into the adventurous opportunities in unexplored territories. Studying in a regional area will allow you to gain life experiences.

So, don't let this golden opportunity slip away. Instead, take a leap towards an unforgettable and transformative academic experience. In order to learn more about Australian universities, scholarships, and requirements, you can connect with the study abroad consultants at Canam and make an informed decision for a brighter future.

FAQ

Which universities are considered the best in Regional Australia?

The University of New England, Charles Sturt University, and James Cook University are some of the most reputed universities in Regional Australia. Your choice of university will depend on your course of study and personal preferences.

What are the advantages of studying in Regional Australia?

Studying in Regional Australia has numerous benefits, such as a diverse and inclusive environment, lower living costs than in major cities, smaller classes for better learning, and unique lifestyle and recreational activities.

What are the visa requirements for international students in Australia?

International students must obtain a Student Visa (subclass 500) to study in Australia. To be eligible, they must be enrolled in an Australian course of study, provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover their stay, maintain adequate health insurance, and meet English language requirements.

What are the living expenses for students in Regional Australia?

Living expenses in Regional Australia can vary depending on the location and lifestyle. Nonetheless, they are generally lower than in major cities.

Are scholarships available to international students in Regional Australia?

Numerous universities in Regional Australia offer scholarships to international students, based on academic merit or equity.

What are the conditions for part-time work while studying in Regional Australia?

International students in Australia can work up to 40 hours per fortnight during the academic semester and unrestricted hours during semester breaks.

What are the IELTS requirements for universities in Regional Australia?

The general IELTS requirement stays at 6.5 with no band less than 6 for all the courses, whereas for medical and education programs it is 7 with no band less than 6.5.

Get great articles direct to your inbox

The latest news, articles, and resources, sent straight to your inbox every month.

Popular Universities to Study Abroad

World class education waiting for you.

University of Waterloo

Ontario, Canada • 238 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 45000-66000 / year

Illinois Eastern Community Colleges - Wabash Valley College Campus

Illinois, USA • 15 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 11500-12000 / year

Global University Systems (GUS) - University for the Creative Arts - Canterbury Campus

England, UK • 38 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 16000-17000 / year

Devry University - San Diego Campus

California, USA • 30 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 15000-16500 / year

Holmes Institute - Melbourne Campus

Victoria, Australia • 7 Programmes

Tuition Fee : AUD 19500-65000 / year

Okanagan College - Vernon Campus

British Columbia, Canada • 13 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 12500-18500 / year

Le Cordon Bleu - Wellington Campus

Wellington, New Zealand • 2 Programmes

Tuition Fee : NZD 26400-26800 / year

Vancouver Community College - Downtown Campus

British Columbia, Canada • 26 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 16000-29000 / year

View All Universities

Latest at CANAM

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

Canadian Universities & Colleges Admissions Fair & Workshop

Study in Canada

Amritsar • 11:00AM

In-Person Event

University Visit - Bay Atlantic University

Study in USA • University Visit

Hyderabad-Kukatpally • 02:00PM

In-Person Event

University Visit - Saskatchewan Colleges (MSM)

Study in Canada • University Visit

Barnala • 12:00PM

In-Person Event

Top countries destinations

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland
Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland
Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales
Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria
Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia
Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland
La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria
LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland
Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland
Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland
Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay
Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland
Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland
Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland
New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland
The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

Kent state university Ohio
San Jose State University California
Wright State University Ohio
Clark University Massachusetts
Rowan University New Jersey
Arkansas State University Arkansas
University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois
University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams

Blogs and Articles

Curated content to keep you updated on the latest education trends, news and more.

Best Countries to Study Abroad for Indian Students in 2025

Looking for the best countries to study abroad in 2025? Studying abroad can be an endeavour for Indian students to upgrade their skill set towards bet...

Updated on • Mar 08,2025 01:24 PM IST • Study Abroad

Nursing Courses in UK

Do you want to pursue a nursing course in the United Kingdom? The UK has been at the forefront of professional nursing ever since it has been consider...

Updated on • Mar 05,2025 12:19 PM IST • UK

Fastest Growing Job Sectors in Germany in 2025

Thousands of job opportunities in Germany are waiting for Indians. Fill them before someone else grabs these. But how? Do you know which sector these ...

Updated on • Feb 28,2025 04:04 PM IST • Germany

What if Your Visa Gets Rejected?

A student visa is a must to study abroad especially in top countries like USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and Germany. After gaining admission to your des...

Updated on • Feb 27,2025 03:32 PM IST • Study Abroad Guidance

Masters in Project Management in Australia

If you are looking to explore opportunities in the field of project management abroad then Australia is the best choice for you. Australian universiti...

Updated on • Feb 25,2025 04:02 PM IST • Australia

Study in Germany After 12th

In this step, the admission authority of the university will check your profile and when everything is right, send you the offer letter.Are you someon...

Updated on • Feb 21,2025 11:53 AM IST • Germany

Best Medical Colleges in USA

You looking for medical colleges in the USA is clear evidence that it is the best country to pursue medical courses. One of the most sought-after medi...

Updated on • Feb 19,2025 12:31 PM IST • USA

MS in Data Science in Ireland

Are you aspiring to pursue an MS in Data Science without breaking the bank? Then look no further! Ireland is home to some of the most prestigious univ...

Updated on • Feb 18,2025 10:58 AM IST • Ireland

Accommodation in France for Indian and International Students

France is a dreamy country that's always in the news for its aesthetic cafes in Lyon, Seine in Paris and skiing in the French Alps. But beyond its all...

Updated on • Feb 14,2025 11:33 AM IST • France

Public Relations (PR) Courses in Australia

Recently, Australia has become a widely popular choice for international students. There is not a single reason for this popularity, but Australia off...

Updated on • Feb 07,2025 11:03 AM IST • Australia

Job Opportunities in France for International Students

Imagine yourself strolling down the Champs-Elysees with a steaming croissant in one hand and a freshly minted job offer in the other. It must sound li...

Updated on • Feb 06,2025 12:47 PM IST • France

Pros & Cons of Studying in France

Every country has a bright side and a dark side, and if you think that studying in France is going to be all rainbows and sunshine, it’s not. Like e...

Updated on • Feb 04,2025 05:49 PM IST • France

MS in Data Science in Germany

Deutschland is an emerging study-abroad destination attracting students from every part of the world. The reasons for this are affordable education, l...

Updated on • Feb 04,2025 12:29 PM IST • Germany

February Intake in Australia: Timeline, Courses, Universities, Deadlines & More

Students who desire to study in Australia should consider the February 2025 intake, which is known as the primary intake in Australia for admission, t...

Updated on • Feb 01,2025 04:57 PM IST • Australia

What is the difference between CV and Resume?

What is the difference between a CV and a resume? The question might sound simple, but it is important to answer. Both documents consist of informatio...

Updated on • Jan 31,2025 05:27 PM IST • Study Abroad Guidance

Cookery Courses in New Zealand for International Students

Is food something that interests you? Can you not resist the aroma of delicious delicacies? Are you passionate about food? If the answer to all the qu...

Updated on • Jan 29,2025 12:27 PM IST • New Zealand

High Paying Jobs in Germany

Germany, a powerhouse of innovation and industry, offers a fantastic job market with excellent salaries and a strong work-life balance. Whether you're...

Updated on • Jan 25,2025 05:52 PM IST • Study in Canada

WES in Canada

World Education Services (WES), is an organization designed to help individuals get their educational credentials evaluated to let them study in Canad...

Updated on • Jan 24,2025 10:50 AM IST • Study in Canada

Canada Student Visa Interview Questions

The perfect ending to any day, race, task, or project is to FINISH STRONG. The same is true for studying in Canada. To finish strong, one needs to cra...

Updated on • Jan 23,2025 12:16 PM IST • Study in Canada

Masters in Management in USA

Looking for a transformative experience that hones your managerial skills and unlocks a treasure of global job opportunities? BINGO! Here's a golden g...

Updated on • Jan 21,2025 05:46 PM IST • USA

Benefits of Studying in Regional Australia

Table of Contents

Benefits of Studying in Regional Australian Cities

High-Quality Education

Employment Opportunities

Affordable Accommodation

Nature and Adventure

Community Connections

Top Universities in Regional Australia

FAQ

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland

Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland

Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales

Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria

Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia

Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland

La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria

LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

University Canada West British Columbia

University of Windsor Ontario

Dalhousie University Nova Scotia

Carleton University Ontario

Cape Breton University Nova Scotia

University of ottawa Ontario

University of saskatchewan Saskatchewan

University of regina Saskatchewan

University of guelph Ontario

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland

Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland

Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland

Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay

Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland

Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland

Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland

New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland

The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

University of Warwick England

De Montfort University England

University of West London England

University of Strathclyde Scotland

Aston University England

University of Bath England

University of Liverpool England

Durham University England

Newcastle University England

Kent state university Ohio

San Jose State University California

Wright State University Ohio

Clark University Massachusetts

Rowan University New Jersey

Arkansas State University Arkansas

University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois

University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams