Best states in Australia for immigration?
My family and I are planning to immigrate to Australia as skilled workers, and we're trying to decide which state would be the best fit for us. Could you share your experiences and recommendations regarding the best states for immigrants in terms of job opportunities, cost of living, community integration, and lifestyle? We're particularly interested in states with strong job markets in IT and healthcare.
1 answer
Each Australian state has different strengths for immigrants:
🏙️ New South Wales (Sydney)
- Best for: Finance, tech, healthcare professionals
- Cost: Most expensive state
- Occupation list: Extensive but competitive
- 190 invitations: Limited
🎨 Victoria (Melbourne)
- Best for: Education, arts, tech, trades
- Cost: Slightly cheaper than Sydney
- Occupation list: Broad, tech-friendly
- 190 invitations: Generous
☀️ Queensland (Brisbane/Gold Coast)
- Best for: Healthcare, engineering, trades
- Cost: More affordable, growing fast
- Advantage: Regional areas qualify for 491
🍷 South Australia (Adelaide)
- Best for: Easy PR pathway, lower competition
- Cost: Very affordable
- Special: Has its own supplementary skilled list
- Regional bonus: +15 points for 491
🌿 Tasmania (Hobart)
- Best for: Easiest state nomination
- Cost: Cheapest capital city
- Special: Very open occupation lists
- Strategy: Popular for 'back door' PR pathway
🏜️ Western Australia (Perth)
- Best for: Mining, engineering, trades
- Cost: Moderate
- Growing: Tech and healthcare sectors expanding
MIGRS recommendation: SA and Tasmania for fastest PR; NSW/VIC for career growth.