Have you ever wondered what sets regional Australia apart from its city counterparts? Amidst all of the countries favored by Bangladeshis for higher education, Australia has always been at the top since the very beginning. Especially its green countryside and small towns, which promises diversity both in terms of geography and institutional facilities.
So, what are the unique benefits that await us in Australia among its regional settings? Besides offering a peaceful life, regional Australia offers a more affordable cost of living compared to major cities. On the academic front, regional universities offer a more diverse range of academic programs, backed by experienced faculty and state-of-the-art facilities. Further, with urban migration affecting regional areas, the government is taking initiatives to attract skilled workers and students for the in-demand jobs in Australia at present.
In this blog, we will take a deeper look into the world of regional Australia and discover why it might be the perfect fit for you! Through a comprehensive analysis of all related factors, we will examine the benefits it offers, particularly to Bangladeshi students. Rest assured, we will provide you with all the necessary information so that you can make a well-informed decision!
Regional Australia: Initiative and Incentives
Recent trends have been showing that even though the Australian economy owes a major portion of its annual growth (around 30-40%) to regional areas, the smaller towns and cities have been suffering for several years. Since many Australians associate personal growth with moving to major cities like Perth, Brisbane, Canberra, and Sydney; region-centric occupations are shrinking to almost extinction.
As an incentive to prospective international students looking forward to going to Australia for a degree in Master’s, Bachelor’s, Ph.D., or other courses, the Australian Government has adopted certain new laws and policies. This will encourage students to choose an institution based on a regional setting rather than a metropolitan area. Some of these could be enjoyed during the study period; while some promise better post-study work rights - and even possible future job prospects! We will talk more about those laws and policies in the next segment of this blog.
Regional Australia: Benefits for Bangladeshi Students
Now, in this segment, we will list the unique advantages available to international students, who have applied or are deciding to apply, to the regional institutions from Bangladesh. From enhanced job opportunities to a diverse cultural experience, regional Australia opens doors to a fulfilling and rewarding educational journey. Knowing about these benefits will also help you answer the interview questions you will be facing as an international student from the universities with clarity! So let's dive right into it -
1. Improved Job Opportunities
Regional areas of Australia are taking a massive hit due to urban migration being a major part of Australian culture. The Australian Government is trying to give precedence to the movement of immigrants to the regional areas of Australia through various incentives like visa benefits. This has encouraged immigrants to settle in the remote regions as well.
Further, the formerly ushered DAMA (Designated Area Migration Agreements) has been playing a crucial role in giving employers in the regional areas increased access to highly-skilled foreign workers. These work as a huge advantage for international students working in Australia to finance their studies.
So, the main takeaway here is - if you do wish to study in a regional university or institution, you will find it easier to get jobs with far better pay and benefits than those in the city!
2. Visa Advantages
The Department of Home Affairs of Australia has decreed a new program that holds a lot of promises for anyone holding a temporary graduate visa (subclass 485). This visa and its benefits have been exclusively targeted to both prospective and currently enrolled international students at regional campuses.
Further, you will be entitled to the following work rights enhancements after the completion of your degree -
| Degree |
Work rights |
| Bachelor |
2 years + 1 additional year
|
| Master |
3 years + 1 additional year
|
| Ph.D. |
4 years + 1 additional year
|
| Other courses
(minimum academic duration of 2 years)
|
1.5 years + 1 additional year
|
3. Affordable Living Costs
One of the major factors that discourage students from studying in Australia is the high living cost. However, when compared to the larger cosmopolitan cities, the cost of housing (including rent, food, and travel) is much lower in the regional areas of Australia. For a better understanding, here is a table presenting the rent of an average single-bedroom apartment across different regional parts of Australia:
| Regions |
Rent (AUD) |
| Sydney |
2,400
|
| Adelaide |
1,700
|
| Perth |
1,500
|
| Hobart |
1.200
|
4. City & Country Blend
Contrary to popular belief, most of the amenities that people associate with living in Australian cities can usually be found in regional areas. Many regional cities and towns in Australia have the same entertainment hubs and facilities as those in the larger towns or cities.
Additionally, if you actually decide to pursue your studies while living in a regional area, you will be able to enjoy a slower-paced life, whilst enjoying the same facilities available in a big city. So it is very unlikely that you will be missing out on anything!
5. Academic Tranquility
Most international students look forward to the diverse sociocultural experiences of studying abroad. However, not everyone wishes for an active social life. If you are an intellectual who likes studying in a more homely and quiet atmosphere; then regional Australia may just be the answer to your prayers!
Regional universities in Australia often have smaller class sizes along with pleasant and welcoming campuses. One added bonus is that nature is always at hand, should you need to take a break from your studies! To make the decision even easier for you, we have listed down some of the most reputed universities in Australia located in a regional setting -
-
Central Queensland University
-
Charles Darwin University
-
Federation University Australia
-
James Cook University
-
Southern Cross University
-
University of Tasmania
-
Flinders University
-
University of South Australia
Conclusion
So, in conclusion, if you are really eager to explore the real Australia and become one with its people, communities, and traditions; studying in a regional university is one of the best things you could do for yourself. As a life experience, it will be extremely fulfilling — and, who knows? It might just open up a path to even more growth and prospects in your life!
Although this blog has already outlined the pathway to pursue higher studies in regional Australia, if you still require guidance and support, PFEC Global is here to help! Our experienced consultants have helped countless international students with anything, from drafting the application to guiding through the Australian visa process.,
Please reach out to us at 01730785457 or 096 09 800 300 for more details.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which regional area is best for international students in Australia?
Answer: Regional areas like Perth, Adelaide, Canberra, Gold Coast, Wollongong, and Newcastle offer a range of business-related positions to explore.
What courses are available in Australia for international students?
Answer: Popular courses for international students in Australia
include Information Technology, Childcare, Banking and Finance, Marketing, etc.
Which region is best for PR in Australia?
Answer: Cairns, Queensland. It has a thriving tourism industry which creates lucrative job opportunities for its residents.
Can international students get financial help in Australia?
Answer: Through options like scholarships, grants, and part-time job opportunities in Australia.
Which regional area is best for jobs in Australia?
Answer: New South Wales (NSW), Victoria, and Queensland offer job opportunities in local sectors like agriculture, healthcare, tourism, etc.
