• Australia

Benefits of Studying in Regional Australia

1824 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.

Deakin University - Warrnambool Campus

Victoria, Australia • 5 Programmes

Tuition Fee : AUD 33500-40000 / year

TCS - The Chicago School of Professional Psychology - Anaheim Campus

California, USA • 4 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 0-0 / year

Kaplan Group - Arizona State University - Polytechnic Campus

Arizona, USA • 90 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 31200-33000 / year

Great Plains College - Warman Campus

Saskatchewan, Canada • 4 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 15000-17500 / year

Western Sydney University - Campbelltown Campus

New South Wales, Australia • 199 Programmes

Tuition Fee : AUD 30500-37500 / year

Troy University - Troy Campus

Alabama, USA • 108 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 18000-19000 / year

Regent Middle East - Dubai Campus

Dubai, UAE • 7 Programmes

Tuition Fee : AED 34000-38000 / year

Fleming College - Frost Campus (Lindsay)

Ontario, Canada • 14 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 17000-28000 / year

View All Universities

Latest at CANAM

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

Dalhousie University Application Week

Study in Canada • Application Days

All Canam Offices, PAN India • 11:00AM

In-Person & Virtual Event

University Visit - Saskatchewan Colleges (MSM)

Study in Canada • University Visit

Sangrur • 12:30PM

In-Person Event

University Visit - NAVITAS , Canada

Study in Canada • University Visit

kochi2 • 12:30PM

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.

Summer Intake in Germany 2025

Germany is located in Central Europe and is known for its rich culture, history, strong economy, and high standard of living. Its diverse population h...

Updated on • Jan 14,2025 05:49 PM IST • Study in Germany

IELTS Reading Practice Tests 2025: Reading Passage and Sample Questions

The IELTS or International English Language Testing System exam consists of four modules – Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening. The IELTS Readi...

Updated on • Jan 14,2025 05:48 PM IST • IELTS

May Intake in Canada 2025

What is May Intake in Canada 2025?Canada May Intake is considered the third most popular study intake in Canada after the September and January...

Updated on • Jan 14,2025 04:09 PM IST • Study in Canada

IELTS Letter Writing Topics 2025

There is a 60-minute time limit for the IELTS Writing test, with 20 minutes allotted for Task 1 and 40 minutes for Task 2. IELTS General Writing Task ...

Updated on • Jan 14,2025 01:44 PM IST • IELTS

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 • Jan 14,2025 10:33 AM IST • Australia

Scholarships to Study in Ireland

Getting scholarships to study in Ireland is no less than an open-eye dream for many of the students out there. What makes getting a scholarship such a...

Updated on • Jan 10,2025 05:28 PM IST • Ireland

Canada IELTS band requirements 2025

Canada's education system is considered the best in the world for international students. Students must fulfil many Canadian Universities' requirement...

Updated on • Jan 10,2025 05:10 PM IST • IELTS

What makes Australia a preferred study destination for Indians?

Australia remains a top choice for Indian students seeking a study-abroad adventure, offering unparalleled advantages. Its blend of quality education,...

Updated on • Jan 10,2025 11:25 AM IST • Australia

PTE Accepted Universities in Australia

In recent years, PTE has emerged as one of the alternatives to IELTS to study abroad. Many top study-abroad destinations like USA, UK and New Zealand ...

Updated on • Jan 10,2025 11:07 AM IST • PTE

Cheapest MBA in UK for International Students

Earning a Master of Business Administration (MBA) can be a game-changer for your career, opening doors to leadership roles and propelling your earning...

Updated on • Jan 09,2025 04:39 PM IST • UK

How to Choose a Study Abroad Destination?

International education is a dream for many students. It not only helps you excel professionally, but also enhances your perception, and evo...

Updated on • Jan 09,2025 04:32 PM IST • Study Abroad

Why Study in Europe?

A quick question for you readers: What's the most important step in studying abroad? *drumrolls* so? Did your answer include anything like choosing a ...

Updated on • Jan 07,2025 05:36 PM IST • Study Abroad

Top Free Education Countries for Indian Students

Education is the right of every individual on earth. It enhances your knowledge, improves economic opportunities, and promotes personal development. A...

Updated on • Jan 06,2025 11:43 AM IST • International Students

September/Fall Intake Canada 2025: Timeline, Universities & Admission Requirements

Studying in Canada after 12th class is the dream of many Indian students. Students with guidance from study abroad consultants apply for different int...

Updated on • Jan 03,2025 05:27 PM IST • Study in Canada

Study in British Columbia

Imagine waking up and starting your day to a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean on one side and snow-covered mountains on the other- Yes! That's B...

Updated on • Jan 02,2025 04:35 PM IST • Study in Canada

Exams Required to Study in USA

If you want to study in the USA, you might have to take a few exams depending on your field, and study goals. These exams help US Universities & C...

Updated on • Dec 31,2024 12:44 PM IST • USA

Study in USA After Diploma

Have you completed your diploma and want to expand your education to unlock new opportunities? the USA welcomes you with open arms. It offers many opp...

Updated on • Dec 31,2024 12:39 PM IST • USA

Most Affordable Universities in USA

There are several students across the globe who dream of studying in the USA. The USA is a dream study-abroad destination, and all those who dream abo...

Updated on • Dec 27,2024 03:55 PM IST • USA

Life in Canada as an Indian Student

Canada is one of the most popular study destinations among international students. This is because it is home to world-class universities th...

Updated on • Dec 26,2024 05:50 PM IST • Study in Canada

Summer Intake in USA - Universities, Timelines & More

Are you thinking about starting your academic journey sooner? If yes, studying in the USA can be your masterstroke! It opens doors to world-class educ...

Updated on • Dec 26,2024 12:35 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