If you’ve been exploring ways to migrate to Australia, you’ve probably come across the term “regional area in Australia” more than once, and for good reason.
Over the past few years, regional Australia has become one of the most attractive and accessible options for skilled migrants, students, and families who are looking for genuine pathways to permanent residency.
From the picturesque vineyards of South Australia to the dynamic hubs like Geelong and Townsville, regional areas for migration in Australia are full of opportunity. Thanks to the Australian government’s push to support regional development in Australia, there are now several visa pathways and policy incentives to encourage people to live, study, and work in regional areas.
Whether you're a skilled worker eyeing the 491 visa regional areas, a student wondering about universities in regional Australia, or simply someone asking “can I get PR by living in regional Australia?”—you’re in the right place. Let’s dig in!
What is a Regional Area in Australia?
In simple terms, a regional area in Australia refers to any location outside the major capital cities of Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
The goal? To support regional development in Australia, ease pressure on big cities, and give migrants better opportunities through dedicated visa pathways.
So, when we talk about regional zones in Australia, we’re not just talking about remote farmland or tiny outback towns (though those count too!). Many regional cities in Australia, like Adelaide, Gold Coast, Newcastle, Hobart, Canberra (ACT), Newcastle/Lake Macquarie (NSW), Wollongong/Illawarra (NSW), Geelong (VIC), etc, offer a great mix of urban convenience and a laid-back lifestyle.
Depending on the postcode you live or work in, you could qualify for specific regional incentives for migration, such as extra immigration points, faster processing times, or access to the regional occupations list.
Full list of regional areas in Australia for the 491 visa
Full list of regional areas in Australia for the 491 Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa, based on the designated regional postcodes published by the Department of Home Affairs (as of the latest update).
These are classified into Category 2 – Cities and Major Regional Centres, and Category 3 – Regional Centres and Other Regional Areas.
Important Note: Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane are not included in the 491 visa regional areas. All other areas in Australia are considered regional for the purposes of the 491 visa, including Perth, Adelaide, Gold Coast, and Canberra.
Category 2 – Cities and Major Regional Centres
Eligible for 491 visa (Designated Regional Areas)
- Perth (WA)
- Adelaide (SA)
- Gold Coast (QLD)
- Sunshine Coast (QLD)
- Canberra (ACT)
- Newcastle/Lake Macquarie (NSW)
- Wollongong/Illawarra (NSW)
- Geelong (VIC)
- Hobart (TAS)
Category 3 – Regional Centres and Other Regional Areas
Also eligible for 491 visa (with additional benefits like 5 extra PR points and access to more occupations)
- All areas in Tasmania
- All areas in South Australia
- All areas in the Northern Territory
- All areas in the Australian Capital Territory
- All areas in Western Australia except the Perth metro
- All areas in Victoria except the Melbourne metro
- All areas in Queensland except Brisbane and the Gold Coast
- All areas in New South Wales except Sydney, Newcastle, and Wollongong
Example of Regional Area Postcodes for 491 Visa Eligibility
Here are a few examples of designated regional postcodes under the 491 scheme:
State/Territory | Example Regional Areas | Postcode Range |
New South Wales | Albury, Wagga Wagga, Coffs Harbour | 2250–2251, 2256–2263, 2311–2312, 2328–2411, etc. |
Victoria | Ballarat, Bendigo, Shepparton | 3211–3232, 3235, 3240–3334, etc. |
Queensland | Townsville, Cairns, Rockhampton | 4019–4020, 4021, 4025, 4037, 4074, etc. |
Western Australia | Bunbury, Albany, Broome | 6041–6044, 6055–6056, 6069–6076, 6083–6084, etc. |
South Australia | Mount Gambier, Port Augusta | All postcodes |
Tasmania | Launceston, Devonport, Burnie | All postcodes |
Northern Territory | Darwin, Alice Springs | All postcodes |
ACT | Canberra | All postcodes |
How to Apply for a Regional Visa for a Permanent Pathway to Australia?
If you're looking for a clear and affordable path to PR in Australia, the 491 Skilled Regional Provisional Visa is one of the best options. It’s a 5-year visa that allows you to live, work, and study in designated regional areas—and can lead to permanent Australian citizenship through the 191 visa pathway.
Here’s how the application process works:
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Before anything else, make sure you meet the basic eligibility criteria for the 491 visa:
- You must be under 45 years old
- Have a positive skills assessment in an occupation on the Skilled Occupation List or the Regional Occupations List
- Meet the English language requirement (usually IELTS 6.0 in each band or equivalent)
- Score at least 65 points on the Australian immigration points system
Tip: (Regional nomination or sponsorship can add up to 15 extra points!). To check your eligibility, connect with the leading registered migration agent in Adelaide.
Step 2: Choose a Regional Area and Occupation
You’ll need to decide:
- Which designated regional area in Australia do you want to live and work in
- Whether you’ll apply through a state/territory nomination or family sponsorship
Tip: Check each state’s or territory’s 491 visa regional areas list and their occupation requirements—these vary.
Examples of popular regions:
- South Australia (including Adelaide)
- Tasmania
- Northern Territory
- Regional Queensland
- Victoria (outside Melbourne)
Step 3: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Create an account on SkillSelect and submit your EOI online:
- Include details about your age, qualifications, work experience, and English ability
- Indicate your preferred state/territory for nomination
Step 4: Get a Nomination or Family Sponsorship
There are two main pathways:
- State or Territory Nomination – each region has its own criteria under the regional migration in Australia
- Eligible Family Sponsorship – your relative must live in a designated regional area of Australia
Once nominated, you’ll receive an invitation to apply for the visa.
Read More: How to Apply for a Remaining Relative Visa in Australia
Step 5: Apply for the 491 Visa
Once invited:
- Lodge your 491 visa application through ImmiAccount
- Provide all supporting documents (identity, skills assessment, English test, etc.)
- Pay the visa fee (approx. AUD $4,640 for the main applicant)
Processing time can vary, but regional visas are often prioritized due to the regional Australia policy.
Step 6: Live and Work in a Regional Area
- You must live, work, and study in the designated regional zones in Australia for at least 3 years
- Must earn a minimum taxable income (currently around AUD 53,900/year) for 3 years
Step 7: Apply for Permanent Residency (191 Visa)
After 3 years on a 491 visa:
- You can apply for the 191 Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa
- No need to be nominated again or go through points testing
- This visa gives you PR and access to Medicare, education, and more
Read More: How Long to Get Australian Citizenship After PR?
Final Thoughts
Choosing to live, study, or work in a regional area in Australia can be one of the smartest steps toward building a secure, successful future and ultimately, achieving permanent residency.
But navigating the rules, postcodes, state nomination criteria, and eligibility can get overwhelming, and that’s where we come in.
At Visafast Migration Consultancy, we specialize in helping individuals and families find the right regional pathways to PR. Whether you're aiming to study in regional Australia, apply for the 491 visa, or simply understand your options, our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Connect with Visafast Migration Consultancy today—and take your next step toward a brighter future in Australia, the smart way.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Which are the best universities in regional Australia for international students?
Some top-ranked regional universities include:
- University of Adelaide (SA)
- James Cook University (Townsville, QLD)
- Deakin University (Geelong campus) – VIC
- University of Tasmania – TAS
- Charles Sturt University – NSW
- University of New England – Armidale, NSW
- Southern Cross University – Lismore, NSW
Is Adelaide considered a regional area for immigration?
Yes, Adelaide is a designated regional area under Category 2 (Cities and Major Regional Centres) and is fully eligible for 491 and 494 regional visas.
What are the benefits of moving to a regional area in Australia?
- More PR points (up to 15 extra)
- Access to more occupations on the Regional Occupation List
- Priority visa processing
- Lower cost of living
- Regional incentives for migration
- Additional points for the regional study
- Pathway to permanent residency through the 191 visa
What is the 491 visa, and how does it relate to regional areas?
The 491 visa (Skilled Work Regional Provisional) is a 5-year temporary visa for skilled workers who are nominated by a state/territory or sponsored by a family member in a designated regional area in Australia. It leads to PR via the 191 visa after 3 years of regional work and income.
Which are the best regional cities for PR in Australia?
Popular and PR-friendly regional cities include:
- Adelaide, SA
- Hobart, TAS
- Launceston, TAS
- Townsville, QLD
- Geelong, VIC
- Wagga Wagga, NSW
- Darwin, NT
How many points do I get for studying in a regional area in Australia?
You get +5 points for studying a CRICOS-registered course in a designated regional area for at least 2 academic years. This adds to your total in the Australian immigration points system.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Immigration laws and policies may change over time, so we strongly recommend consulting a registered migration agent or legal professional before making any visa application.
