In Australia, the term “regional” includes a wide range of locations beyond the major cities of Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane. So, the whole of Australia outside of these three cities is regional.
Major Regional Cities
- Perth, WA: Population of 2,600,000
- Adelaide, SA: Population of 1,400,000
- Gold Coast, QLD: Population of 647,000 (just 80 km from Brisbane)
- Canberra, ACT: Population of 490,000
- Hobart, TAS: Population of 230,000
- Darwin, NT: Population of 135,000
Other Notable Regional Areas
- Sunshine Coast, QLD
- Wollongong, NSW
- Geelong, VIC
- Ballarat, VIC
- Bendigo, VIC
All cities with a population over 100,000.
Unique Regional Locations
- Byron Bay, NSW: Known for its celebrity residents, such as the Hemsworth brothers, and relaxed lifestyle
- Wine Regions: Including Margaret River (WA), Barossa Valley (SA), and Yarra Valley (VIC)
Smaller Remote Regional Locations
The definition of regional also includes small towns and remote locations such as:
- Coober Pedy, SA
- Oodnadatta, SA
- Bourke, NSW
- Marble Bar, WA
Skilled Occupations in Regional Areas
Contrary to the perception that regional areas only require agricultural workers, there is a consistent demand for various skills, including:
- Healthcare: GPs, registered nurses, and carers
- Education and Social Services: Teachers and social workers
- Trades: Chefs, cooks, diesel mechanics, and hairdressers
Moving to a Regional Area?
If you’re considering relocating to a regional area in Australia, it’s essential to explore your visa options. Moving to regions with more shortages can potentially provide more opportunities, such as finding a sponsor in your occupation.
Regional Visas
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491): For people nominated by a State or Territory government or sponsored by an eligible family member to live and work in regional Australia.
- Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 494): For people sponsored by an employer in regional Australia.
- Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa (subclass 191): For people who have lived in a regional area for 3 years while holding a 491 or 494 visa.
We can help you understand your potential pathways and assist with your visa application.
Please book an appointment with us to discuss your situation in detail.
Do you need help with your visa application?
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