When researching studying in Australia, most students tend to focus on choosing a course and institution, often overlooking that selecting the right state is just as important. This decision not only determines your living environment throughout your studies but also directly affects your financial capacity, job opportunities, and especially your ability to stay and work long-term after graduation.
In reality, each Australian state differs significantly in living costs, safety levels, employment opportunities, and learning environments. Understanding and comparing these factors from the beginning will help international students choose a destination that aligns with their personal goals while building a sustainable study and career pathway in Australia.
1. Classification of Australian States and Cities
Australia is divided into several states and territories, each with distinct economic conditions, living costs, and lifestyles. Understanding this classification is an important first step when choosing where to study, helping students identify an environment that fits both their academic goals and financial plans.
Major Metro Areas
These states are home to large cities, strong economies, and large international student populations.
- New South Wales (NSW): Sydney – Australia’s busiest financial hub.
- Victoria (VIC): Melbourne – the cultural and education capital.
- Queensland (QLD): Brisbane – known for its warm climate and thriving tourism industry.
Regional Cities
These areas typically offer lower living costs, a more relaxed lifestyle, and strong migration advantages.
- South Australia (SA): Adelaide – safe and affordable living.
- Western Australia (WA): Perth – a key economic centre with strong labour demand.
- Tasmania (TAS): Hobart – peaceful environment and low costs.
- Northern Territory (NT): Darwin – strong opportunities in services and resources.
- Australian Capital Territory (ACT): Canberra – high living standards and administrative centre.
2. Key Factors When Choosing a State to Study in Australia
Choosing a state is not simply about selecting a place with a well-known school. More importantly, it is about finding an environment that truly matches each student’s needs and circumstances. Based on real consulting experience, several key factors should be considered:
2.1 Living Costs
Many students focus only on tuition fees, forgetting that daily living expenses have the greatest impact on the overall study budget. In practice, living costs vary significantly between Australian cities.
High-Cost Cities (Sydney, Melbourne)
These cities have the highest living expenses due to large populations, strong housing demand, and higher service costs.
- Accommodation: Typically accounts for 40–50% of living expenses, ranging from AUD $350–$550/week near city centres.
- Transport & daily costs: Higher overall, but public transport systems are highly developed and convenient.
Mid-Range Cost Cities (Canberra, Brisbane, Perth)
These cities offer high living standards at more affordable costs than major metro areas.
- Accommodation: Around AUD $280–$420/week depending on location.
- Daily expenses: About 10–20% lower than major cities.
- Advantages: Comfortable lifestyle and less financial pressure.
Most Affordable Cities (Adelaide, Hobart, Darwin)
These regional areas offer the most budget-friendly living conditions.
- Savings: Students can reduce overall expenses by 20–30% compared to Sydney or Melbourne.
- Accommodation: Typically AUD $200–$350/week.
- Student benefits: For example, Adelaide offers discounted public transport for students.
2.2 Safety & Quality of Life
Australia consistently ranks among the world’s safest and most liveable countries, though experiences can vary by region.
Metro Cities:
- Vibrant, multicultural, and active 24/7
- However, they can be crowded, with traffic pressure and more complex security issues in central areas at night
Regional Areas:
- Strong community connections and friendly locals
- Cleaner air, more green spaces, and ideal environments for under-18 students or those seeking quiet study settings
2.3 Job & Internship Opportunities
This is one of the most common concerns among students and parents. Employment opportunities not only shape the study experience but also influence long-term career prospects after graduation.
In Metro Cities:
- Abundant part-time jobs in hospitality, retail, and services
- Strong career opportunities in finance, marketing, and creative industries
- High competition requiring early preparation
In Regional Areas:
- Strong labour demand in healthcare, early childhood education, social work, community services, engineering, and agriculture
- Less competition, making it easier to secure internships and build experience
2.4 Learning Environment
The difference between metro and regional areas also affects academic experience and support levels.
Metro Cities:
- Home to many top universities
- Diverse international student communities
- Strong global networking opportunities
Regional Areas:
- Specialised training aligned with local industry needs
- Smaller class sizes with more personalised support
- Strong academic and practical guidance
3. Suggested State Choices by Student Goals
There is no “best” location for everyone—only the most suitable one based on individual goals.
Group 1: Experience & Global Career Focus
Suggested cities: Sydney or Melbourne
Why:
- Economic and education hubs
- Top universities and multinational companies
- Strong internship opportunities
Note: Requires strong finances, English skills, and competitiveness.
Group 2: Balanced Lifestyle & Affordable Costs
Suggested cities: Perth or Brisbane
Why:
- Lower living costs
- Comfortable lifestyle
- Stable part-time job opportunities
Suitable for: Students in engineering, mining, hospitality, or those seeking budget efficiency.
Group 3: Long-Term Migration Goals
Suggested cities: Adelaide, Hobart, Darwin, Canberra
Why:
- Regional migration advantages
- Extra migration points
- Longer post-study work opportunities
- High labour demand with less competition
Note: Lifestyle is quieter than major cities.
4. Conclusion: There Is No “Best State” — Only the Most Suitable One
Each Australian state offers unique advantages in cost, job opportunities, learning environments, and future pathways. The key is not following trends but clearly understanding:
- Your study goals
- Your financial capacity
- Whether you prioritise experience or long-term migration
Once these questions are answered, choosing the right state becomes much clearer and better aligned with your long-term plans.
>> Contact NextGem today for personalised advice on choosing the right state and building your study and career pathway in Australia.
