Senator the Hon Mathias Cormann

Perth will be a more attractive destination for international students, with the Federal Government reinstating Perth’s status as a regional city, helping to create local jobs. 

In response to recent changes to visa and migration settings, the State Government requested for Perth to be re-classified as a ‘region’ for international students. This will come into effect on November 16. 

The Federal Government, with the support of Western Australian businesses and universities, agreed to the change meaning international students will now be able to access incentives to undertake their study in Perth and will enable WA to increase its share in this market. 

Finance Minister Mathias Cormann said the State and Federal Government continued to work together to ensure that Australia’s migration system meets the needs of our cities and regions. 

“As a regional city, Perth will be an option for international students who want to study here, as they will now be eligible for an additional year in Australia on a post-study work visa,” Minister Cormann said. 

“That additional year of post-study work by international students who choose Perth will not only benefit students with work experience, income, and post-study financial stability, but also help drive stronger economic growth.” 

Premier Mark McGowan said the changes would improve Western Australia’s capacity to attract international students and support the economy. 

“Attracting more international students will help diversify and grow the State’s economy and also create employment opportunities for Western Australians,” Mr McGowan said. 

“Given WA has no main university campuses outside of Perth, the State Government has adjusted its policies to ensure we are not disadvantaged. 

“I’d like to thank the Federal Government for working co-operatively with us to achieve this outcome, in the best interests of WA.” 

WA Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery said WA’s international education sector currently supports 14,600 full-time jobs. 

“Not only do international students enrich the social vibrancy and cultural fabric of our communities, their presence attracts thousands of visiting friends and relatives from overseas,” Ms Ellery said. 

The change will have no impact on the Western Australian Skilled Migration Occupation List (WASMOL), which remains the same.