Australia Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189) Outlook for 2026: What to Expect After Major Changes in Migration Strategy

Choosing the right study destination is one of the most important decisions for international students planning their future in Australia. With rising living costs in major metropolitan cities and increased competition for jobs, Western Australia (WA) has become one of the strongest study choices for 2026.

Perth, the capital of WA, is consistently ranked among the world’s most liveable cities. It offers affordability, safety, high-quality education, strong employability outcomes and clear migration pathways, making it an excellent destination for students seeking both academic and long-term career opportunities.

At Aussizz Group, we support students throughout their journey – from course selection and admissions to GS guidance, student visas, 485 visas and PR planning.

1. Regional Benefits That Provide Strong Visa and PR Advantages

Perth is officially classified as a Category 2 – Regional Area, offering international students several migration advantages not available in Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane.

Key Regional Benefits

• Additional points for skilled migration (subclass 189/190/491)
• Eligibility for extended 485 post-study work visas
• Priority selection under the WA State Nomination Graduate Stream
• Broader occupation lists compared to many states
• Less job competition due to a smaller population

2. Top Universities and Institutions in Western Australia (PR-Friendly Options)

Western Australia is home to globally recognised universities, strong VET providers and reputable private institutes offering migration-aligned study pathways.

WA Universities and Colleges – PR-Friendly Courses

3. How Choosing the Right Course Supports PR Pathways

Course selection plays a major role in shaping employment and migration outcomes. WA has ongoing shortages across health, engineering, IT, teaching, community services and trades.

High-Demand Courses in WA and Their PR Benefits

4. Affordable, Safe and Student-Friendly Lifestyle in Perth

Perth offers a more relaxed and affordable lifestyle compared to eastern metropolitan cities. Students benefit from lower rent, transport concessions and a safe, multicultural environment.

Cost of Living Comparison

Why Students Prefer Perth?

• More affordable cost of living
• Safer and quieter environment
• Student transport concessions
• Balanced lifestyle with outdoor spaces
• Strong part-time job availability

5. Scholarships in Western Australia

Western Australia offers a wide range of scholarship opportunities that help international students reduce tuition costs and access high-quality education. While criteria and benefits vary each intake, WA institutions consistently provide meaningful financial support across multiple study levels.

Common Scholarship Options in WA

• Academic Merit Scholarships: Offered by universities such as UWA, Curtin, Murdoch and ECU for students with strong academic profiles.
• International Welcome Awards: Designed to support new international students commencing studies in WA.
• Regional Study Bursaries: Encouraging students to study at WA campuses, especially in high-demand fields.
• Course-Specific Scholarships: Available for priority areas such as Engineering, IT, Nursing, Teaching, Business and Public Health.
• Institutional Bursaries (Private Colleges): Provided by VET and private institutions like TIWA, APSI and Stanley College for trade, cookery, hospitality and community services programs.

Scholarship availability differs with each intake, and applicants are encouraged to apply early. Aussizz Group helps students identify suitable options based on their course preferences and academic background.

6. Thriving Job Market and High Graduate Salaries

WA’s strong economy creates excellent employment opportunities across engineering, healthcare, IT, construction, agriculture and hospitality.

High-Demand Job Sectors in WA

7. WA Migration Pathways: Graduate Stream and PR Opportunities

Western Australia continues to offer one of Australia’s clearest migration pathways for international graduates. The WA State Nomination Graduate Stream helps VET, bachelor, master and PhD graduates access permanent residency opportunities.

Why WA Migration Pathways Stand Out

• Transparent occupation lists
• Monthly invitation rounds
• Preference for WA-trained graduates
• Clear, accessible eligibility criteria

Recent invitation data shows strong demand in engineering, IT, nursing, teaching, hospitality, agriculture and community services. Students who want a deeper understanding of WA’s latest nomination performance can review the detailed analysis here:

WA State Nomination December 2025 Invitation Trends
https://www.aussizzgroup.com/blog/wa-state-nomination-december-2025-invitation-trends/

This provides useful insight into which occupations were invited, how the Graduate Stream performed and what trends international students should consider when planning their long-term migration pathway in Western Australia.

Employer Sponsorship Pathways

WA employers actively sponsor graduates under:

• 482 Skills in Demand Visa
• 186 Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS)
• 494 Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional Visa

8. Who Should Study in Western Australia?

WA is ideal for students seeking:

• Clear PR opportunities
• An affordable lifestyle
• Strong job outcomes
• Extended post-study work rights
• High-quality universities and VET providers
• A multicultural and supportive community

FAQs

1. Why is WA a good destination for international students?

It offers affordability, strong job demand, high-quality education and reliable PR outcomes.

2. Which courses are best for PR in WA?

Nursing, engineering, IT, teaching, community services, trades and hospitality.

3. Is Perth more affordable than Sydney and Melbourne?

Yes. Perth has noticeably lower rent, transport and daily living costs.

4. Does studying in WA improve PR chances?

Yes. WA prioritises graduates who study and work within the state.

5. How can Aussizz Group assist students?

We support with admissions, GS guidance, OSHC, student visas, 485 visas and PR pathways.

6. Can international students work part-time in Perth?

Yes. Students can work 48 hours per fortnight during study terms and unlimited hours during breaks.

7. Is WA better for PR than other Australian states?

For many students, yes. WA offers broader occupation lists, regular invitations and strong demand for skilled graduates.

Conclusion

Western Australia offers a powerful combination of high-quality education, affordability, job opportunities and clear migration pathways. With regional advantages, strong workforce demand and a welcoming environment, WA stands out as one of the best study destinations for international students in 2026.

At Aussizz Group, we help students make informed, confident decisions about their education and migration future.

Contact Aussizz Group for inquiries or personalised guidance.