About Western Australia

Australia’s largest state offers an outstanding international student experience like no other.

Western Australia (WA) offers a high quality of life, a vibrant lifestyle, an expansive outback and stunning coastal landscapes. Alongside studying in a diverse environment here you’ll be surrounded by endless opportunities to experience unique cultural offerings and landscapes.

A map showing the major cities and town centres in Western Australia and the state's location in Australia.

Map of Western Australia, showing study locations throughout the state. 


A snapshot of Western Australia


Quality education

WA's universities have received five-star ratings across teaching quality, skills development, learning resources and student support (Good Universities Guide, 2024).


A STEM hub

WA is considered the mining and engineering capital of Australia.


Stay connected to home

WA is in the same time zone (GMT+8) as 60% of the world’s population (+/- 2 hours), including China, Hong Kong and Singapore.

Diverse study options  

Perth is home to five leading universities,  high-quality vocational education institutions and schools.  

It’s a premier destination for: 

  • science 
  • engineering 
  • technology
  • medicine and health 
  • commerce  
  • education and the arts. 

WA's institutions offer academic excellence, state of-the-art research facilities, hands-on learning and invaluable professional experiences helping students to graduate job-ready.

Key industries  

WA is the mining and engineering capital of Australia. A resource-rich state with a strong economy. It is also a global hub for scientific and technological innovation and is increasingly recognised as a global leader in automation, robotics, remote operations and digital technology.

Many of the world’s biggest resource companies including BHP, Rio Tinto and Woodside have offices in Perth and operations throughout the state. The hands-on work experience opportunities offered by local business and industry draws students from across Australia and internationally. 

Western Australia is rapidly growing as a leader in the industries shaping Australia’s future. The state is seeing strong growth in industries like defence and national security, shipbuilding and maritime industries, advanced manufacturing, science, research and innovation, space industries, clean energy, and critical minerals and future resources.

Western Australia is globally focused, with great connectivity to international business, industry and research centres. You’ll still be close to home with direct flights from Perth to 20 international destinations across Asia, the Middle East and Europe.

Discover the five stunning regions of Western Australia

Western Australia is a land of breathtaking contrasts, offering visitors diverse experiences across its five distinct tourism regions. Each region has something unique to offer from the pristine beaches and vibrant city life of Perth and Surrounds to the world-class wineries and natural wonders of Australia’s South West

Experience the vast, rugged beauty of Australia’s North West, home to the Kimberley and ancient rock formations, or explore the golden outback landscapes and rich mining history of Australia’s Golden Outback. Finally, immerse yourself in the aquatic paradise of Australia’s Coral Coast, where turquoise waters meet the spectacular Ningaloo Reef. 

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural discovery, Western Australia’s five regions promise unique, unforgettable experiences at every turn.

Our multi-cultural community

As one of the safest places in the world, Western Australia has a thriving student community. You'll experience a unique culture, make new friends and learn in a diverse environment. The state offers a vibrant lifestyle that will continue to amaze and delight you on a day-to-day basis.

Perth is diverse with people of more than 200 nationalities calling the city home. In fact, 40.5% of the greater Perth population were born overseas!

WA's student population continues to grow, as many are realising the incredible benefits this great state has to offer. 

About Perth 

There are countless opportunities for work and play in the thriving, cosmopolitan city of Perth.

You’ll discover a clean and modern city with a vibrant restaurant, arts and music scene. It’s also generally more affordable than other major Australian cities.

Cottlesloe beach

Cottesloe Beach, Perth. Image courtesy of StudyPerth


A snapshot of Perth


Education providers

Home to over 140 world-class education providers, including higher education, vocational education and training, English language, and primary and secondary schools


Population

Over 2.5 million


A place to study and travel

Perth’s laidback lifestyle is complemented by beaches, rivers and parklands

Pull Quote logo

Beaches, road trips and the laid-back lifestyle are the main three things I have enjoyed and still do!

Abhijith from India


Perth is ranked among the top most livable cities in the world,  and it’s easy to understand why. The city and surrounding areas offer a 'city-meets-the-sea' lifestyle which is truly inspiring.  

Perth’s regional city status offers students opportunities to access additional migration points, family sponsorship and extended post-study work rights, allowing students to stay longer in Western Australia.

Perth is named the 12th most liveable city in the world. Living costs in Perth are lower than other major cities in Australia.

The city offers a relaxed Australian lifestyle. Perth is the sunniest capital city in Australia with an average of 8.8 hours of sunshine per day. It is often said "in Perth, the sun is always shining, and the people are always smiling". 


WA Government support

The Western Australian Government also offers a number of prestigious scholarships and grants to help international students with their living, travel and education costs.

Three students by the river in Perth


Perth information and support

As an international student studying in Perth, you have access to free mental health and wellbeing support, free legal advisory services, social and career events, career mentoring programs, and more, supported by StudyPerth. Find out more about living and studying in Perth.

More study locations in Australia