10 Best Regional Areas in Australia 2025: For International Students and PR Aspirants

Australia offers a wide range of opportunities coupled with high-quality of life, excellent education institutions and healthcare facilities. To top it off the unique biodiversity, breathtaking landscape, and a pollution free environment, Australia offers everything from a natural, clean environment to an advanced lifestyle.

Amongst the robust cities of Australia, the regional areas or cities are ought not to miss, because these regional areas in Australia are best for someone exploring permanent residency options in Australia. Join us as we explore the comprehensive list of best regional areas in Australia for PR.

Best Regional Areas in Australia for Permanent Residency: Top 10 Cities

As we are aware Australia welcomes large numbers of immigrants and students to enter either temporarily or permanently for study, work and settle in the country. According to the report by the Australian Bureau of Data (ABS) more than 55% of total Australia’s permanent visa holders, who migrated between January 1, 2000 to August 10, 2021 are now Australia PR holders residing in the Aussie land.

The major population of PR holders reside in Sydney or Melbourne (56%), followed by Perth (12.1%), Brisbane (9.7%), Adelaide (5.6%). The list of top regional areas for PR in Australia are as follows:

1. Perth

Perth is top among the Australia regional areas list for PR because it offers a great lifestyle and access to some of the best job opportunities. Approximately 3/4th of the total population in Western Australia reside in this metropolitan area, making it the 4th biggest city in Australia.

Perth, Australia, epitomizes a relaxed lifestyle with outdoor attractions, diverse dining options, and a thriving arts and culture scene. There are a number of key industries that make it attractive to foreign professionals looking to migrate, such as mining, energy, healthcare, technology, and finance.

Also Explore: Cost of Living in Perth: For Students & Families

2. Adelaide

The South Australian city of Adelaide tops the list of which regional area is best for PR in Australia. The reason, it is known for its strong economy, high standard of living, and relaxed way of life.

With a fast public transportation system, it is accessible to go around the city with children. The city also has a diverse job market and a growing startup scene, making it an attractive destination for skilled workers and entrepreneurs.

Additionally, Adelaide has a relatively low cost of living compared to many other major cities in Australia, making it an affordable option for PR seekers.

Also Explore: Cost of Living in Adelaide, Australia

3. Canberra

Canberra is the capital city of Australia, and it is home to many government departments and organizations. As such, it is an important region for public relations professionals. Canberra is the best place in Australia to live providing a tranquil and harmonious lifestyle, emphasizing community, well-being, and a wealth of leisure activities.

It provides a central hub for activities related to communication strategy and media relations, as well as providing access to key decision-makers in the government sector. PR agencies and professionals can conduct business here due to its proximity to national media outlets and a diverse network of policymakers.

4. Gold Coast

Our list of which regional area of Australia is best for PR is not complete without mentioning the Gold Coast.

Gold Coast, Australia, presents a relaxed beachside lifestyle, offering sun, surf, and outdoor activities in a multicultural and affordable environment, with a thriving nightlife scene. It's all about well-rounded living.

With its combination of urban amenities and a relaxed coastal lifestyle, the city also boats of strong education system and a growing healthcare sector, making it a great place for families to call home

5. Wollongong

Wollongong is a city located in the Illawarra region of New South Wales, Australia, and it has several unique attributes that make it the best regional area to study in Australia.

The city is conveniently located just an hour's drive south of Sydney, making it an accessible option for those looking to live in the region while still enjoying the benefits of studying in Australia and residing in a larger city.

The city is also known for its diverse and inclusive community, as well as its strong commitment to environmental sustainability, which makes it the best regional area in Australia for PR. Certainly a great place for those looking to live in a responsible and sustainable way.

6. Newcastle

One of the best regional cities in Australia for Permanent Residency (PR) is Newcastle in New South Wales. Newcastle is a vibrant and culturally diverse city. It has a strong and growing economy, driven by industries such as renewable energy, health, education, and tourism.

This provides a range of job opportunities for PR seekers, as well as a high standard of living and access to various services and amenities. Additionally, Newcastle is well connected to other major cities in Australia, making it a convenient location for those who wish to explore the country.

7. Darwin

When it comes to regional areas in Australia for PR, Darwin tops the chart among the best regions in Australia. This city is a convenient hub for business and travel.

Darwin offers a laid-back tropical lifestyle, featuring outdoor adventures, multicultural experiences, and a strong sense of community. Its unique blend of nature and culture makes it an inviting destination.

It has a thriving economy driven by industries such as mining, agriculture, and tourism, providing residents with various employment opportunities.

While Darwin may not be the best option for everyone, its combination of location, economy, and lifestyle make it an attractive destination for those seeking permanent residency in Australia.

8. Hobart

The city of Hobart in Australia is a particularly special place for PR professionals because it offers a unique historical and cultural context in which to work.

Hobart boasts a tranquil lifestyle with a focus on natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a close-knit, friendly community. It's a picturesque and welcoming place to call home.

Located on the island of Tasmania, Hobart has been an important center for commerce and trade since settlement began in 1804. It is reputed as the second oldest capital city in Australia. It also offers one of the most cost effective and outstanding academic schools to international students along with multitude of job opportunities to professionals making it a best regional area for PR in Australia.

9. Bundaberg

Firstly, Bundaberg is located in the Wide Bay region of Queensland, providing residents with access to a warm and sunny climate, along with beautiful beaches and outdoor recreational activities.

Secondly, Bundaberg has a strong economy that is driven by industries such as agriculture, fishing, and manufacturing, providing residents with a variety of employment opportunities.

Bundaberg offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle, known for its sugarcane fields, beautiful beaches, and a close connection to the Great Barrier Reef. It's a laid-back, nature-rich community.

The city also has a rich history and culture, including the famous Bundaberg Rum Distillery and the Bundaberg Botanic Gardens.

10. Cairns

Cairns is a city located in the tropical region of Queensland, Australia and it has several attributes that make it an appealing destination and best regional areas in Australia for PR.

Cairns is located in the heart of tropical North Queensland, it has a thriving tourism industry, which provides residents with a variety of employment opportunities.

Cairns offers a tropical paradise lifestyle, with easy access to the Great Barrier Reef and lush rainforests, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. It's a destination that blends adventure and natural beauty.

Additionally, it is known for its friendly and inclusive community, as well as its vibrant arts and cultural scene, including the Cairns Performing Arts Centre and the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair.

Australia's Top 10 Regional Areas - A Bright Future Awaits!

Australia is a vast and diverse country that offers a wide range of regional areas for those seeking permanent residency (PR). From the tropical north in Cairns to the coastal city of Wollongong and the bustling city of Gold Coast, each region offers its own unique benefits and attributes.

Whether you are looking for a strong economy, a vibrant cultural scene, or a relaxed coastal lifestyle, there is a regional area in Australia that can meet your needs. It's important to consider your individual preferences and needs when choosing the best regional area for PR in Australia, as each area offers a unique combination of benefits and challenges.

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