If you’ve ever wondered whether studying in a regional part of Australia is worth it — the answer in 2025 is a resounding yes.
Australia’s recent changes to post-study work rights have created unprecedented opportunities for international graduates who choose to study at regional universities. Eligible students can now stay and work in Australia for up to 5 years after graduation — a major incentive for those planning long-term careers or permanent residency (PR) in Australia.
What’s New in 2025?
As part of its strategic plan to boost population and economic activity in less-populated regions, the Australian Government has expanded post-study work rights for students graduating from institutions in Designated Regional Areas.
Here’s a quick look at the new rules:
| Location of Study | Post-Study Work Rights |
| Major cities (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane) | 2 years (Bachelor), 3 years (Masters) |
| Regional centres & other areas | Up to 5 years |
| PhD graduates | Up to 6 years (all areas, based on field & region) |
This means students studying outside metro hubs now receive longer stay periods, better job access, and greater support for PR pathways.
What is Considered a Regional Area?
In 2025, the following cities and regions are officially classified as Designated Regional Areas for migration and education incentives:
- Category 2: Cities and major regional centres
e.g., Adelaide, Perth, Gold Coast, Canberra, Sunshine Coast - Category 3: Regional centres and other regional areas
e.g., Hobart, Darwin, Ballarat, Toowoomba, Coffs Harbour, Wagga Wagga
These areas enjoy priority visa processing, additional PR points, and enhanced education-to-migration pathways.
Why Study in a Regional University?
Here’s why regional campuses are gaining popularity among international students, especially from India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the Philippines:
1. Extended Work Rights
Stay back up to 5 years allows graduates to:
- Build meaningful work experience
- Strengthen PR applications
- Save money and reduce financial stress
2. Lower Cost of Living
Regional towns often have:
- Cheaper accommodation
- Lower transport costs
- Affordable groceries and utilities
3. PR Benefits
Graduates from regional areas receive:
- Extra 5 PR points under the Skilled Migration Points Test
- Access to regional nomination streams (state or employer-sponsored)
- Priority visa processing for PR and Temporary Skilled visas
4. High-Quality Education
Top regional universities offering strong academic programs include:
- University of Tasmania (UTAS)
- Charles Sturt University (CSU)
- Southern Cross University
- University of New England (UNE)
- Federation University Australia
Job Prospects in Regional Areas
With Australia facing skill shortages in sectors like healthcare, IT, engineering, and agriculture, regional areas offer plenty of work opportunities. Many employers are happy to support skilled graduates with visa sponsorships, especially in these fields:
- Nursing and Aged Care
- Agriculture and Environmental Science
- Early Childhood and Secondary Teaching
- Construction, Civil and Mechanical Engineering
- Data Analytics, Cybersecurity, Software Development
“Studying in Ballarat not only gave me a scholarship but also extended my stay after graduation. I’m now working in IT and applying for PR through the regional nomination program.”
— Rohan M., Master of Information Systems, Federation University
Requirements to Qualify
To be eligible for extended work rights as a regional graduate, you must:
- Complete a CRICOS-registered course in a designated regional area
- Hold a valid Subclass 485 – Temporary Graduate Visa
- Reside and study in the regional area for at least 2 years
- Have lived in the regional location during your studies
The work rights are linked to your location of study, not just the university’s head office — so be sure your campus is located regionally.
Choosing the Right Course for PR and Career
Popular regional courses aligned with workforce demand and PR include:
- Bachelor of Nursing (regional campuses in NSW, QLD, SA, TAS)
- Bachelor of Early Childhood Education
- Master of Civil Engineering
- Bachelor of Information Technology
- Certificate III & IV in Commercial Cookery
Visa Smile can help you choose the right combination of course + location to optimize your long-term goals.
Visa Smile Advantage — Study Regional with Confidence
At Visa Smile International, we specialize in guiding students to high-quality regional universities with strong migration outcomes. Our team ensures that you:
- Select a PR-aligned course in a regional location
- Understand your work rights and stay-back entitlements
- Receive assistance in applying for Subclass 485 post-study work visa
- Plan ahead for PR through points-tested and employer-nominated visas
“Thanks to Visa Smile, I discovered how regional study could boost my PR chances. I got accepted to University of Tasmania with a scholarship and now have a clear migration plan.”
— Neha B., Bachelor of Nursing, Hobart
Final Takeaway: Think Regional, Think Long-Term
If you’re aiming to study in Australia and settle long-term, choosing a regional campus may be your smartest move in 2025. The 5-year work rights, cost savings, and PR advantages make it a high-value decision.
Need Help Choosing the Right Regional University?
Visa Smile International is here to help you every step of the way — from selecting the ideal university and course, to filing your visa and settling in. Our expert advisors offer personalized guidance and migration-informed education planning.
Book your free consultation today.
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