Everything about Perth, Australia, from history to immigration
Perth, the capital of Western Australia and known as the 'City of the Sun', is one of the most unique cities in Australia. Unlike the capital Canberra or the eastern cities of Sydney and Melbourne, Perth is located on the western end facing the Indian Ocean, and has achieved self-reliant growth despite its isolation.
With its abundant natural resources, clean natural environment, world-class educational institutions, and leisurely, quiet lifestyle, it is quickly emerging as a popular city for study and immigration within Australia.
This article provides detailed information and external links on the history of Perth's formation and growth, must-see tourist attractions, major industries and universities, and the lives of Korean immigrants.
We've also included practical tips, especially for those considering permanent residency or skilled immigration to Australia.
Take an in-depth look at everything about Perth, Australia.
index
- 1. Perth Overview and Location
- 2. Perth's history and urban formation
- 3. Major tourist attractions
- 4. Climate and living environment
- 5. Perth's economy and major industries
- 6. Education and University Information
- 7. Korean community and immigration statistics in Perth
- 8. Life as an immigrant in Perth: Pros and Cons
- 9. Why Choose Perth?
1. Perth Overview and Location
When most people think of cities in Australia, they think of Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane. Perth is the fourth largest city in Australia. The westernmost tip of the Australian continent, the central city and capital of Western Australia, bordering the Indian Ocean. With a population of over 2.1 million, it is known as a place where the vast natural environment and the modern urban infrastructure are in harmony.
This city Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane Although it is geographically far from the major cities in the east and has the nickname of an 'isolated city', it has developed an independent and self-reliant local economy. In particular, Mining, energy, agriculture, marine logisticsWith its central industry, it is considered one of the most important economic hubs in Australia.
Perth's geographical location is Proximity to AsiaBecause of International trade and exchange are activeIn fact, there are direct air routes to major Asian cities such as Singapore, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul, and Tokyo, which has a positive effect on the entry of foreign companies and the influx of immigrants. For this reason, Perth Asia's strategic hub city in AustraliaIts status as a leader is also rising.
Also, Perth population densityis low, Clear skies for more than 300 days a yearIt is famous for being 'Sunny City' is called. There are large and small parks and beaches throughout the city, and local residents live in an environment where they can lead a leisurely and healthy life.
In this way, Perth is a representative city of Australia. A nature-friendly city and an international immigrant cityIt is steadily gaining popularity among those considering studying abroad and settling down.
*Find Perth on Google Maps
2. Perth's history and urban formation
The city of Perth 1829, the UK Swan River It began with the establishment of the **Swan River Colony** in the basin. It did not start out as a convict colony like other parts of Australia, but Free immigrants settle voluntarilyIt has great historical significance as a pioneering area. The immigrants were mainly from England, Scotland, and Ireland, and established the initial settlement based on agriculture and livestock farming.
The city's name, **Perth**, is said to have been derived from Perth, Scotland, and was taken from the colonial governor at the time, **James Stirling**, who had a relationship with a Scottish nobleman.
The discovery of gold and the growth of the city
1890sAs we approach the inland areas of Western Australia, Gold mines discovered in large numbersAs a result, Perth entered a period of rapid change. **Kalgoorlie** and Coolgardie The gold boom that began in Perth attracted many miners and investors to Perth, which led to Population is booming and urban infrastructure is expanding rapidly.It was during this period that railways, ports, banks, and commercial centers began to develop in earnest, and Perth became the central city of Western Australia.
World Wars and Industrialization
World War I and World War IIDuring the war, Perth also served as a military stronghold. After the war, The Australian government's proactive immigration policyThis led to a large influx of European immigrants, particularly Italian, Greek and German, which further enriched Perth's multicultural colour.
The rise of the mining and energy industries
Since the mid-20th century, especially since the 1960s, Perth A key city for resource developmentWestern Australia is rich in various resource reserves such as iron ore, natural gas, nickel, and gold, and as the industry that develops and exports these resources grows explosively, Perth is at the center of it. In particular, the connection with the Pilbara region in the northwest is A hub of mining and energy industriesIt became an opportunity to firmly establish myself as a person.
Modern Perth is built on this resource industry base. Finance, education, tourism, and cultural industriesIt is developing widely and driving the economy of Western Australia. Central cityinterest International cityis being reborn.
*WA Museum – Explore the history of Perth and Western Australia
3. Major tourist attractions
Perth is a city with a perfect blend of urban and natural beauty, with a variety of attractions including the ocean, parks, historic sites and wildlife just a short drive away. Here are some of the must-see attractions when visiting Perth:
Kings Park & Botanic Garden

Kings Park is located in the heart of Perth's city centre. The world's largest urban park, covering 400 hectares **Fraser Avenue Lookout** is a popular photo spot, offering panoramic views of the Swan River and Perth city centre.
Inside the park A botanical garden featuring native Western Australian plants, State War Memorial, and its well-maintained nature trails and picnic areas make it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Cottesloe Beach
Cottesloe Beach is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Perth. Clear blue Indian Ocean, white sand beach, The sunset turns red at duskprovides the best resting place for travelers.
You can enjoy various marine activities such as surfing, snorkeling, and walking along the beach, and you can also enjoy a meal or a cup of coffee at a beachside restaurant. Every March, Sculpture by the SeaThere will also be an art exhibition called .
Fremantle
Fremantle, located approximately 30 minutes from Perth city centre, Historic port cityas, Victorian architecture, Artists' Street, Fremantle Markets It boasts a variety of attractions.
also Little Creatures It is also perfect for a culinary tour, as it is home to many craft beer breweries, seafood restaurants, and cafes.
Fremantle Prison is a historic site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Rottnest Island
This island, nicknamed 'Rotty', About 30 minutes by ferry from PerthIt is a resort in . The biggest attraction is, without a doubt, the cute marsupial animal called **Quokka**.
Quokkas are called 'the happiest animals in the world' for their always smiling expressions, and travelers from all over the world visit this place to take 'quokka selfies'.
With restricted vehicle traffic, you can explore the entire island by bike or on foot, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy, including beaches, snorkeling, surfing, and scuba diving.
*Rottnest Island Official Website
Other recommended attractions
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Eliza Statue: This unique statue is installed on the Swan River. Its clothes change with the seasons, making it a popular photo zone.
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Perth Zoo: You can see Australian native animals up close, such as koalas, kangaroos, and Tasmanian devils.
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Perth Cultural Centre: It is a cultural complex with WA Museum, art gallery, library, etc.
4. Climate and living environment
Perth is a city famous for its **Mediterranean climate**, which means it has mild and pleasant weather all year round. Boasting the most sunshine hours in AustraliaIt is considered one of the cities that does this.
Weather characteristics throughout the year
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Summer (December - February):
The temperature is normal Maximum 30-35 degrees, Minimum 17~20 degrees It is hot and dry to the point where it is Perth's own unique wind. “Fremantle Doctor”(Cool sea breezes blowing from the west) blow in the afternoons to cool down the heat. Outdoor barbecues, swimming, surfing, and beach walks are popular during this time. -
Fall (March - May):
The weather is gradually getting cooler, temperatures are stable, and the parks are turning green. Fall is also famous for local festivals and music festivals. -
Winter (June - August):
With mild temperatures (up to around 18 degrees Celsius) It rains often Precipitation is concentrated. Snow rarely falls, and it is a time for indoor activities and cafe culture. -
Spring (September - November):
Western Australia's native wildflowers are in full bloom, and flower festivals are held in parks such as Kings Park. With temperatures hovering around 20 degrees, it's a popular season for both tourists and locals.
Cost of living and living environment
Perth is a city that is relatively smaller than the eastern metropolises of Sydney and Melbourne. The cost of living is relatively low, and in particular **housing costs (rent, home purchase)** are economical.
As of 2024, the average monthly rent in Perth is:
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1 bedroom apartment (city center): approx. 2,000~2,400 AUD
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3 bedroom house (outskirts): approx. 2,500~3,200 AUD
For family unit immigrants A residential area slightly outside the city center(e.g. Canning Vale, Willetton, Joondalup etc) are popular. large garden, Proximity to school, quiet neighborhood environment It has the following advantages:
Education and healthcare infrastructure
Perth is Educational InfrastructureIt is a well-developed city suitable for international students and immigrant families. It is a world-class city. University of Western Australia (UWA), Curtin University, Murdoch University There are many elementary, middle, and high schools to choose from.
The medical system is also stable, with public hospitals and private clinics evenly distributed throughout the city and outskirts, providing good access to medical care.
Lifestyle and Community
Perth people generally enjoy a leisurely and nature-friendly lifestyle. Outdoor activities, Beach culture, weekend market We value our backs. Thanks to our culture that values work-life balance, Cities with low stress levelsIt is also evaluated as .
In addition, it is a multicultural city where various communities coexist. Asian immigrant community including KoreansIt is also actively operating. There is a Korean community in Perth, a Korean market, Korean restaurants, churches, etc., so you can relieve the loneliness of living in a foreign land.
5. Perth's economy and major industries
Perth is The economic heart of Western Australiaas, Resource Development, Energy Industry, trade, Technical field It is a city where various industries have developed. In particular, Perth functions as a key gateway for resource exports in Australia, a world-class resource-rich country, and is also the city where the headquarters of global companies are located.
1) Resource and mining industry
Perth is known as **Australia's 'mineral capital'** and is a production and export base for various resources such as iron ore, gold, lithium and nickel.
The following resources are representative of those driving the economy:
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ironstone: Mined mainly in the Pilbara region and exported to Asia via Perth.
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gold: Adjacent to Kalgoorlie, a world-class gold producing region
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Lithium and rare earths: Strategic resources for the expansion of eco-friendly industries and electric vehicle battery markets
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Oil and Gas: Rich offshore oil and gas reserves exist off the north coast of Perth
2) International trade and logistics
Perth is Excellent geographical accessibility to Asia It is evaluated as a key point for international trade.
**Fremantle Port** is Western Australia's largest commercial port and is a hub for import and export logistics, with active trade with Asian countries including China, Japan, and Korea.
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Exporting resources worth billions of dollars each year
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Asian exports of fresh agricultural products, seafood, etc. are also on the rise
3) Emerging industry and tech startups
Perth recently Technology-based startups, Energy Technology (Clean Energy), Agri-tech We are seeking to diversify our industries.
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In Perth TECHHUB, Spacecubed There is a startup support hub.
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Startups in AI, IoT, mineral analysis technology, and sustainable energy are growing
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There is also a program where the government and universities jointly foster innovation clusters.
4) Job market and occupations
Perth's employment market is structured around the following industries:
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Mining and Energy Technicians, Engineers
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Healthcare and social welfare professionals
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Technical jobs such as construction, electrical, welding, etc.
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Logistics and Trade Related Personnel
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Education and Research
In particular, the Western Australian state government has Actively attracting skilled immigrantsand even gives extra points if you live in Perth.
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Perth has a traditional industry centered on minerals, It is also actively evolving into a new industry centered on technology and startups.Perth is a country with a stable economic structure based on natural resources and a structure that combines investment in future industries. Sustainable Global Economic Cityis positioned as
6. Education and University Information
Perth is also a popular city for education, with several world-renowned universities, including the following three:
Perth is Western Australia's educational hubas, Excellent primary and secondary education system, World-renowned universities, and Multicultural learning environmentPerth is a city with a wide range of educational opportunities. Perth is particularly popular with international students, and the government is fostering international education as a strategic industry.
1) Primary and secondary education system
Australia's education system is governed by state governments, and Western Australia (WA), where Perth is located, maintains high standards in both public and private schools.
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Primary School: Usually from Pre-Primary to Year 6
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Secondary School: Year 7 to Year 12
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Public vs Private: Public schools are free or low cost, private schools have high parental involvement and are largely based on religious groups.
Perth's public schools are Catchment Area(School District) Students are assigned based on the system, English as a Second Language (ESL) We run programs to help students whose native language is not English adapt to the new environment.
Western Australia also invests in science, mathematics and digital technology education, resulting in a very strong STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics)-based curriculum.
2) Major universities in Perth
Perth is home to five world-renowned universities, which rank among the top in Australia for their quality of education, research capabilities and international networks.

1. University of Western Australia (UWA) https://www.uwa.edu.au/
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Representing Perth 'Group of Eight (Go8)' Member
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Strong in medicine, engineering, life sciences, marine science, and finance
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Beautiful campus and high percentage of international students
2. Curtin University https://www.curtin.edu.au/
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A university with strong practical education
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Specialization in Mining, Energy, Architecture, and Media
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Operation of innovative startup support and employment linkage programs
3. Edith Cowan University (ECU)
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Known for its education, nursing, and cybersecurity majors
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Lots of internship opportunities connected to real industries
4. Murdoch University https://www.murdoch.edu.au/
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Leading education in veterinary medicine, environmental science, and sustainable energy
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Active joint research and degree programs with Asian countries
5. University of Notre Dame Australia
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Catholic-based private university
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Specializing in humanities, education, and health
In this way, Perth is home to a number of higher education institutions with a variety of majors and curricula. Education Cityno see.
3) Educational environment for international students
Perth is one of the largest cities in Australia International student friendly cityThe Western Australian government is actively recruiting international students, providing residence support services and employment linkage programs.
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Operation of a service center exclusively for international students
Examples: StudyPerth, WA Government Student Hub, etc. -
Expanding the legal weekly working hours for student visa holders
From 2023, up to 48 hours per week will be allowed, with full-time work during school holidays -
Post-graduation work visa (485 visa)
Perth is classified as a regional city. Additional Stay Benefits Provided (up to 4 years) -
Settlement Support: Rent, transportation card discounts, English education, free consultation, etc.
International students can develop their English skills in a safe environment and enjoy the benefits of interacting with diverse cultures.
4) Educational benefits for family immigrants
Perth is a very attractive city for family immigrants who value their children's education.
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Children of student visa holders can also enroll in public schools
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Provides public school tuition exemption benefits for children of skilled immigrants
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Operation of multicultural classes and special support programs
Especially in primary and secondary education Low student-to-teacher ratio, parent satisfaction is high within the local community. Korean language support teachers and Korean communityIt also exists and is a great help in initial adaptation.
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Perth is more than just a study abroad city, A very favorable educational environment for those considering long-term career planning and settlement..
With a wide range of options from elementary and secondary school to graduate school, the city is gaining recognition as a city that offers open educational opportunities to both international students and family immigrants.
7. Korean community and immigration statistics in Perth
Perth has a relatively small Korean population compared to other major cities in Australia, but in recent years The influx of Koreans for study abroad and immigration purposes is steadily increasing.They are distributed in various forms, including family unit immigrants, international students, technical immigrants, and working holiday participants. The Korean community is also actively organized and active.One side.
1) Current status of the Korean population
Perth belongs to Western Australia There are about More than 6,000 Korean nationalsare living in the Perth metropolitan area, most of which is concentrated within the Perth metropolitan area. The exact figures vary from year to year, but the following trends are observed in particular:
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Approximately 2021 population census compared to 2016 Increased by 15% or more
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Increase in the proportion of student visa holders and technical immigrants
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Increase in family unit settlement and acquisition of permanent residency
This is closely related to Perth's stable living environment, low crime rate, reasonable cost of living, and regional immigration benefits.
2) Korean community structure and activities
In Perth Various Korean organizations and networksIts existence greatly assists the initial settlement of immigrants.
Key community examples:
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Korean Society of Western Australia: Operates cultural events, provides information to overseas Koreans, and supports government-related activities
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Korean Churches and Religious Organizations: In addition to worship, we provide various activities such as international student counseling, living support, and free Korean/English classes.
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Facebook group, KakaoTalk open chat: Sharing practical information such as real estate, second-hand transactions, and job search
In addition to this, Perth has Korean mart, Korean restaurant, beauty salon, academy, hospital There are various Korean businesses distributed here, creating a foundation for a stable life while maintaining cultural identity.
*Australian Korean community site Go see
3) Settlement characteristics and initial support information
Perth is a particularly attractive city for families or skilled migrants. Key features relevant to settlement include:
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Education benefits: Children of skilled immigrants can enroll in public schools for free
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House for rent: Possibility to secure housing at a relatively reasonable price (but initial rental competition is fierce)
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motoring: After your Korean license is recognized, you can exchange it for an Australian license.
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Accessibility of welfare services: Permanent residents and citizens can enjoy various welfare benefits
Additionally, through StudyPerth or the state government’s immigration settlement support agency Free English classes, career counseling, and resume writing assistance etc.
You can receive practical services.
4) Cultural exchange and Korean events
In Perth Korean Culture Day, Lunar New Year event, and traditional art performances hosted by the Korean Association Various cultural events are held regularly, providing opportunities to share Korean culture with local communities and pass it on to future generations.
Also in collaboration with the Perth City Government Korea-Australia Cultural Exchange ProgramThis is also the case, and with the number of Australians learning Korean increasing, the city is developing into one with a high level of multicultural understanding.
5) Tips for those preparing to settle down
If you are a Korean preparing or considering immigrating to Perth, here are some tips to help you:
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Australian Skilled Occupation List (SOL) Check local immigration system → Establish visa strategy
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Information on schools and institutions in Perth Research in advance → Establish a plan for your child’s education
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Engage with the Korean Community → Sharing information and forming social connections
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Search local communities in advance for housing and employment information. → Avoid initial confusion
Especially if you are not confident in English, you can contact your local Korean church or community center. It is very useful to learn English for daily life and get information.do.
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Although Perth does not have a large Korean population like Sydney or Melbourne, A small but tight-knit Korean community, A good environment to live in, Various settlement support Thanks to you An increasingly attractive option for Korean immigrantsIt is becoming.
For Korean immigrants looking to balance education, work and life, Perth could be a 'hidden gem' city.
The Western Australian government has recently been operating various immigration programs to stimulate regional immigration. WA Migration ServicesYou can check it through .
8. Life as an immigrant in Perth: Pros and Cons
Perth is an attractive city for many immigrants due to its harmony between nature and the city, stable economic foundation, and pleasant climate. However, when considering immigration, it is important to understand Perth’s unique characteristics and compare its pros and cons in a balanced manner. Although the evaluation of Perth among actual immigrants is very positive, there is also a gap between expectations and reality.
merit
- Nature-friendly city: The entire city is surrounded by parks, rivers, and beaches, providing a high quality of life and plenty of outdoor activities.
A review from a Korean community user: “I love that I can relieve the stress of city life in nature by taking a walk every day at Kings Park.” - Alleviate the burden of living expenses: Compared to major eastern cities such as Sydney and Melbourne, house prices and overall cost of living are lower.
As of 2024, the median house price in Perth is around A$650,000, half that of Sydney at A$1.2 million. - A quiet living environment: It is a suitable environment for family unit immigrants as it has a low population density and is not crowded. The population of the Perth metropolitan area is about 2.2 million, which is only about 8% of the total population of Australia.
- Employment Opportunities: There is a steady demand for employment in a variety of sectors, including resource industries, construction, nursing and healthcare, and education.
According to Western Australian government statistics, demand for nurses, electricians and construction workers is expected to be more than 1.5 times higher than the national average by 2023. - Immigration Policy Preferences: There are many immigration benefits, such as being given additional points for skilled immigration by being designated as a regional area.
Perth is designated as Regional Australia, meaning it can award up to 15 additional points when applying for a Skilled Work Regional visa (491).
disadvantage
- Geographic isolation: It is far from other major cities in Australia and international flights are limited, so mobility may be limited.
The flight time from Perth to Sydney is about 5 hours, which is comparable to the distance from Seoul to Bangkok. - Lack of job diversity: In professional or high-tech sectors, opportunities may be narrower than in the eastern metropolises, particularly in IT, marketing and finance, where job openings are smaller than in Sydney or Melbourne.
- Cultural content restrictions: There are relatively few large-scale cultural events such as performances and exhibitions, so you may feel a lack of cultural stimulation.
A review by a Korean blogger: “There are performances and exhibitions, but the scale and frequency are disappointing compared to cities in the east.” - Inconvenience of public transportation: The public transport system is less developed than in Sydney or Melbourne, so a car is virtually essential.
It is estimated that over 701,000 Perth residents use their own cars to commute to work.
Perth immigration can be a great choice for those who want a quiet and stable life. However, it is important to carefully plan by comprehensively considering your occupation, lifestyle, family structure, etc. In particular, it is a very good strategy to communicate with Koreans who have already settled in the area or to directly investigate the actual living conditions through local immigration consulting services.
9. Why Choose Perth?
Perth is a very attractive choice for immigrants and international students who prefer a quiet and stable city. It has a strong resource-driven economy, world-class universities, a pleasant natural environment, and a multicultural society.
especially Western Australia State Nomination ProgramWe actively support regional immigration, including Perth, and provide a range of benefits to immigrants. For more information, WA Skilled Migration PageYou can check it at .
finish
Perth, Australia, is a city with excellent conditions as a new home beyond a simple tourist destination. Its stable economic structure, comfortable living environment, and life with multiculturalism and nature are the reasons why it is loved by many immigrants. If you are thinking about immigrating or studying abroad in Perth, now may be the time to seize the opportunity.
In particular, Perth has been designated as a strategic development area by the Australian government, and is given various benefits in terms of immigration policy. Regional skilled migration point preference, overseas students' extension of stay after graduation, and employment demand for certain occupations are advantages that differentiate Perth from other cities. Above all, Perth is developing rapidly, but still maintains a leisurely and friendly city atmosphere, making it an ideal environment for those seeking a 'balanced life'.
Of course, Perth may not be the perfect city for everyone. Its relatively isolated geographical location, limited cultural content, and lack of jobs in some industries are realities to consider. However, these shortcomings can be sufficiently overcome depending on what kind of life you want to live. In fact, many Korean residents express satisfaction that they made the right decision to come to Perth, and are creating their own stable lives in this city.
If you have become interested in Perth after reading this article, it would be a good idea to first experience it through a short trip, language training, or study abroad. Experience is always the most accurate criterion for judgment. The feel of the city you have experienced firsthand will give you a more certain answer than any information.
Perth is still quietly, yet steadily, opening up new possibilities for many people's life paths. If you are ready to put your name on that path, Perth will welcome you to begin.
*Australian Immigration Type Conditions Go see