10 Best Regional Areas In Australia For PR in 2024

Benefits of Living in Regional Australia for PR

Choosing to live in regional Australia offers numerous advantages for those seeking permanent residency:

1. Lower cost of living compared to major metropolitan areas.

2. Stronger sense of community and a more relaxed lifestyle.

3. Access to natural wonders and diverse landscapes.

4. Additional points on the Immigration Points Test for living and studying in a regional area.

5. Potential access to state-specific skilled migration programs.

6. Less competition for jobs in various sectors.

7. Opportunities to integrate into the community and build professional networks.

These benefits make regional areas attractive options for those looking to establish a long-term future in Australia.

Australia is a large country with many employment opportunities. The country offers the perfect blend of busy skyscrapers and city life along with a greener, slower lifestyle, based on where in the country you choose to live. Australia has some major cities like Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. These are bustling places with a fast-paced lifestyle and urban landscapes. On the other hand, Australia has regional areas that are closely connected to the country’s ecology and have a more laid-back lifestyle. This makes Australian immigration one of the most sought-after.

Living in one of Australia’s regional areas will bring you a life of serenity and calm, along with other benefits like good pay. So, which regional areas can you obtain PR in if you move there? Here is a list of the 10 best regional areas in Australia for PR.

10 Best Regional Areas In Australia For PR in 2024

Moving to Australia can be one of the best decisions for you. People can move to Australia for various reasons, from studying in Australia to working in Australia and more. Here is a special list curated for you to find out the best regional areas in Australia for PR:

1. Perth

The first province making it to our list of best regional areas in Australia for PR is Perth. Perth is one of the most popular destinations in regional Australia for obtaining PR. It offers a diverse lifestyle with some of the best employment opportunities in the country. There is a lot of diversity in terms of the country’s recreation, food options, etc. Perth is also very culturally vibrant and has many activities for people with an affinity for art. 

• Job Opportunities
  Perth offers diverse employment options across industries such as mining, energy, healthcare, technology, and finance. Major employers include Rio Tinto, Woodside Petroleum, and the Western Australia Health Department.
• Cost of Living
  Perth's cost of living is generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne. Housing costs are more affordable, with median house prices around A$520,000.
• Lifestyle and Amenities
  Perth boasts beautiful beaches, parks, and a Mediterranean climate. It offers a relaxed lifestyle with excellent public transport and modern infrastructure
• Education and Healthcare
  Home to prestigious institutions like the University of Western Australia. The healthcare system is robust, with several major hospitals and clinics.
• Additional Benefits for PR Applicants
  PR applicants can earn extra points on the Immigration Points Test for living and studying in Perth as a regional area.

2. Adelaide 

Adelaide is one of the most prominent cities in southern Australia. Adelaide sees the most PR applicants among all regional areas in the country.  Adelaide is currently a hotspot for startups around the country - the economy there is developing quite fast, too. It is a technological hub and a favourite for entrepreneurs, software engineers, and computer graduates. Plus, the cost of living in Adelaide is lower than that of most other countries, strengthening its appeal. 

• Job Opportunities
  Adelaide has a thriving startup ecosystem, especially in the tech sector. Major employers include the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute and the University of Adelaide.
• Cost of Living
  Adelaide offers a lower cost of living compared to other major Australian cities, with housing costs significantly lower than Sydney or Melbourne.
• Lifestyle and Amenities
  Known for its festivals, beautiful beaches, and nearby wine regions like the Barossa Valley. The city has excellent public transport and is very bike-friendly.
• Education and Healthcare
  Home to top institutions like the University of Adelaide and University of South Australia. The healthcare system is world-class, with major hospitals like the Royal Adelaide Hospital.
• Additional Benefits for PR Applicants
  PR applicants can access South Australia's state nomination program and may face less competition for jobs compared to larger cities.

3. Canberra

Being the capital city of Australia, Canberra is of great importance. This factor makes it one of the best regional areas in Australia for PR.  It is home to many government offices and organizations and also has historical significance. Canberra is well-connected to other cities. The city abides by the idea of community living - there are always many community or leisurely activities to do. It also hosts a large community of politicians, policymakers, media professionals, and public relations managers- making these the top sectors in this city. 

• Job Opportunities
  As the capital, Canberra offers numerous opportunities in government, politics, policymaking, media, and public relations.
• Cost of Living
  While not the cheapest city, Canberra's cost of living is generally lower than Sydney or Melbourne, with more affordable housing options.
• Lifestyle and Amenities
  Canberra offers a strong sense of community living, numerous parks and recreational areas, and excellent cultural institutions like the National Museum of Australia.
• Education and Healthcare
  Home to the Australian National University and the University of Canberra. The healthcare system is of high quality, with several major hospitals.
• Additional Benefits for PR Applicants
  PR applicants can benefit from Canberra's status as a regional area for immigration purposes, potentially earning extra points.

4. Gold Coast

Gold Coast is known for its tropical environment, life by the beach, and multicultural society. The cost of living on the Gold Coast is also quite low. Gold Coast makes it to our list of the best regional areas in Australia for PR. This city is also known for its abundant education system and strongly growing medical sector. So you can enjoy all the modern and technologically advanced facilities in a relaxed, affordable environment- that too, by the beach!

• Job Opportunities
  The Gold Coast offers opportunities in tourism, hospitality, education, and healthcare. The film industry is also growing in the area.
• Cost of Living
  The cost of living on the Gold Coast is generally lower than in major cities, with more affordable housing options.
• Lifestyle and Amenities
  Known for its beautiful beaches, theme parks, and outdoor lifestyle. The city offers a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty.
• Education and Healthcare
  Home to Griffith University and Bond University. The healthcare system is well-developed, with major hospitals like Gold Coast University Hospital.
• Additional Benefits for PR Applicants
  PR applicants can benefit from the Gold Coast's regional status, potentially earning extra points and accessing state nomination programs.

Read More: Top 10 Best Regional Areas In Australia For PR In 2024

5. Wollongong 

Being just an hour's reach away from Sydney, Wollongong is known for having great accessibility to big cities while maintaining a laid-back, low-cost environment of its own. So you can enjoy the benefits of city life while residing in this regional area. The city also has a strong commitment to sustainable development and promotes sustainable activities within the community, making it the ideal place to live in for the years to come. 

• Job Opportunities
  Wollongong offers opportunities in education, healthcare, and manufacturing. The University of Wollongong is a major employer.
• Cost of Living
  The cost of living in Wollongong is generally lower than in Sydney, with more affordable housing options.
• Lifestyle and Amenities
  Wollongong offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle with beautiful beaches and easy access to nature. It's also close enough to Sydney for day trips.
• Education and Healthcare
  Home to the University of Wollongong. The healthcare system is well-developed, with major facilities like Wollongong Hospital.
• Additional Benefits for PR Applicants
  PR applicants can benefit from Wollongong's regional status, potentially earning extra points and facing less competition for jobs compared to Sydney.

6. Newcastle 

Located in New South Wales, Newcastle is a culturally significant city of historical importance as well. The economy in Newcastle is currently booming, too, making it an ideal place to live. It is one of the easiest cities to get PR in, as the job opportunities here are endless. You can easily find jobs in growing industries like health, education, energy, and tourism. Moreover, Newcastle is very well connected to other major cities in Australia, which is a big plus point if you wish to seek PR here. 

• Job Opportunities
  Newcastle offers diverse employment options in healthcare, education, energy, and tourism. Major employers include the University of Newcastle, John Hunter Hospital, and various mining and energy companies.
• Cost of Living
  The cost of living in Newcastle is generally lower than in Sydney, with more affordable housing options. Median house prices are around A$700,000, significantly less than Sydney.
• Lifestyle and Amenities
  Newcastle boasts beautiful beaches, a vibrant arts scene, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle. It offers excellent public transport and is known for its cycling-friendly infrastructure.
• Education and Healthcare
  Home to the University of Newcastle, which is renowned for its medical and engineering programs. The healthcare system is robust, with John Hunter Hospital being a major tertiary referral center.
• Additional Benefits for PR Applicants
  PR applicants can benefit from Newcastle's regional status, potentially earning extra points on the Immigration Points Test and accessing state nomination programs.

Also Read: Apply Working Visa in Australia: Types, Benefits, Process

7. Darwin 

Darwin is known for its opportunities in the business and tourism sector, making it an ideal place to live in. It is often known as the best regional city in Australia to get PR in. Darwin, too, has a multicultural society and a strong sense of community. Plus, it has a booming economy with a laid-back lifestyle, offering the best of both worlds. 

• Job Opportunities
  Darwin offers opportunities in government, defense, tourism, and resources sectors. Major employers include the Northern Territory Government, Charles Darwin University, and various mining and gas companies.
• Cost of Living
  While some costs can be higher due to its remote location, housing in Darwin is generally more affordable than in Sydney or Melbourne. The median house price is around A$500,000.
• Lifestyle and Amenities
  Darwin offers a unique tropical lifestyle with access to national parks, outdoor markets, and a multicultural community. The city is known for its relaxed atmosphere and proximity to Asia.
• Education and Healthcare
  Charles Darwin University is the main tertiary institution. The healthcare system is well-developed, with Royal Darwin Hospital being the primary facility.
• Additional Benefits for PR Applicants
  PR applicants can benefit from Darwin's regional status and may have access to specific Northern Territory nomination programs.

8. Hobart 

Hobart is one of the most beautiful cities in Australia, with picturesque views harbouring at every corner of the city. It is located in Tasmania. Hobart has been an important centre of trade and commerce ever since the Australian settlement first began. Thus, opportunities in commercial and economic fields and trade are very easily attainable. Since Hobart is on an island, you can enjoy a bustling business life with the tropical lifestyle right there, which you can access whenever you wish. 

• Job Opportunities
  Hobart offers opportunities in tourism, education, healthcare, and government sectors. Major employers include the University of Tasmania, Royal Hobart Hospital, and various tourism operators.
• Cost of Living
  Hobart has a lower cost of living compared to mainland capital cities, with more affordable housing. The median house price is around A$600,000.
• Lifestyle and Amenities
  Hobart offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. It's known for its food scene, MONA museum, and proximity to stunning wilderness areas.
• Education and Healthcare
  The University of Tasmania is the primary tertiary institution. The healthcare system is comprehensive, with Royal Hobart Hospital as the major public hospital.
• Additional Benefits for PR Applicants
  PR applicants can benefit from Hobart's regional status and may have access to Tasmania's state nomination program.

9. Bundaberg

Bundaberg is known for its continental climate, where the summers are warm and sunny and the winters aren’t too harsh. Bundaberg has an agricultural economy, with agriculture, fishing, and mining being the primary sources of income. Bundaberg is very abundant in terms of nature as well. It is very close to the Great Barrier Reef, along with many other beaches and gardens for you to let your hair loose in. 

• Job Opportunities
  Bundaberg's economy is largely based on agriculture and tourism. Major employers include Bundaberg Sugar, Bundaberg Rum, and various agricultural businesses.
• Cost of Living
  Bundaberg offers a very affordable cost of living, with housing prices significantly lower than in major cities. The median house price is around A$300,000.
• Lifestyle and Amenities
  Bundaberg offers a relaxed regional lifestyle with access to beaches, national parks, and the Great Barrier Reef. The city is known for its friendly community and outdoor activities.
• Education and Healthcare
  CQUniversity has a campus in Bundaberg. The healthcare system is adequate, with Bundaberg Hospital as the main public facility.
• Additional Benefits for PR Applicants
  PR applicants can benefit from Bundaberg's regional status, potentially earning extra points and accessing Queensland's regional nomination program.

10. Cairns

Last but not least, the region in the list of best regional areas in Australia for PR is Cairns. Cairns is known for its vibrant contribution to the arts and culture, with a very active and vibrant cultural community. It has a strong tourism industry, which is the main source of employment for most people living here. Cairns offers a tropical lifestyle with very friendly people who will always help you whenever you need it. 

• Job Opportunities
  Cairns' economy is primarily driven by tourism and agriculture. Major employers include various hotels and resorts, tour operators, and the Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service.
• Cost of Living
  The cost of living in Cairns is generally lower than in major cities, with more affordable housing options. The median house price is around A$450,000.
• Lifestyle and Amenities
  Cairns offers a tropical lifestyle with access to the Great Barrier Reef, rainforests, and beautiful beaches. The city has a vibrant arts and culture scene and a strong focus on outdoor activities.
• Education and Healthcare
  James Cook University has a campus in Cairns. The healthcare system is well-developed, with Cairns Hospital as the major public facility.
• Additional Benefits for PR Applicants
  PR applicants can benefit from Cairns' regional status, potentially earning extra points on the Immigration Points Test and accessing Queensland's regional nomination program.

Read More: Freshers Job in Australia for Indian- Latest Guide 2024

Conclusion 

In conclusion, Australia has a variety of regional areas from which you can choose to settle. As a permanent resident, you can access the best of these cities. Because of how welcoming the country is of immigrants, you will settle and blend in with ease as well. Make an informed decision based on what you want in the city you wish to live in before applying for a PR visa.

To make your immigration to Australia easier, you can get in touch with TerraTern.