What cities are considered regional for study purposes?

As of early 2026, all areas outside Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane are generally classified as regional for immigration purposes. This includes cities like Adelaide, Perth, Hobart, Canberra, Gold Coast, Newcastle, and Wollongong. However, regional designations are determined by the Department of Home Affairs and are subject to change. Always check the current classification at homeaffairs.gov.au.

Can I move to a capital city after studying in a regional area?

If you are granted a Subclass 485 visa after regional study, you generally have the right to live and work anywhere in Australia during the visa period, unless specific conditions are attached to your visa. However, regional study benefits (such as extended visa duration) are based on where you studied, not where you work after graduation. Consult a registered migration agent for advice on your specific circumstances.

Are regional universities lower quality than city universities?

No. All Australian universities are regulated by TEQSA (the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency) and meet the same national quality standards. Regional universities often offer smaller class sizes, stronger community connections, and practical industry placements. Several regional universities rank highly in specific fields.

How much cheaper is it to live in a regional area?

Living costs in regional Australia are generally 20-40% lower than in Sydney and Melbourne, particularly for rent and daily expenses. Exact costs vary by location. The Department of Home Affairs requires student visa applicants to demonstrate access to at least AUD $24,505 per year for living costs (as of 2026), regardless of location.

Regional Study in Australia — General Overview

Let's Go Study Australia is not a registered migration agent and does not provide immigration assistance or migration advice as defined by the Migration Act 1958 (Cth). Information on this website is general in nature. For advice about your specific visa situation, consult a registered migration agent at mara.gov.au or an Australian legal practitioner. This page provides general information about regional study in Australia.

Studying at a regional Australian university can offer international students a unique experience — smaller class sizes, a lower cost of living, strong community ties, and potential benefits under Australia's post-study visa framework. This page provides a general overview of what regional study means and how it may relate to your plans.

What Counts as a Regional Area for Study Purposes?

For immigration purposes, the Department of Home Affairs classifies Australian locations into metropolitan and regional areas. As of early 2026, all areas outside Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane are generally considered regional. This includes major cities like Adelaide, Perth, Hobart, Canberra, the Gold Coast, Newcastle, and Wollongong, as well as smaller towns and rural areas. Regional designations can change — always check the current classification at homeaffairs.gov.au.

Benefits of Regional Study

Lower Cost of Living

Rent, food, and transport are generally 20-40% cheaper in regional areas compared to Sydney and Melbourne.

Smaller Class Sizes

Regional universities often have lower student-to-staff ratios, meaning more personalised attention and support.

Community Connection

Regional areas offer a close-knit community experience with opportunities to build lasting connections with locals.

Employment Opportunities

Many regional areas have workforce shortages, which may provide better part-time and post-study employment prospects.

Regional Study and the Subclass 485 Visa — General Information

Graduates who complete eligible qualifications while studying and living in a designated regional area may be eligible for an extended Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate visa — an additional one to two years beyond the standard duration. This provides more time to gain Australian work experience, which may be relevant to a future skilled migration application. Regional study may also provide additional points under the skilled migration points test. These benefits are determined by the Department of Home Affairs and are subject to change. For detailed information on the Subclass 485, see our Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) Guide. Consult a registered migration agent at mara.gov.au for advice on how regional study applies to your specific circumstances.

Cost of Living in Regional Australia

Living costs in regional Australia are generally lower than in major capital cities. Shared accommodation in regional areas may cost AUD $120–$200 per week compared to AUD $200–$350+ in Sydney or Melbourne. Groceries, dining, and transport are also typically more affordable. Many regional universities offer on-campus accommodation at competitive rates. Keep in mind that the Department of Home Affairs requires student visa applicants to demonstrate access to at least AUD $24,505 per year for living expenses regardless of location. For city-specific cost information, see our Study by City guides.

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