Working And Studying In Adelaide

Cost Of Living

Adelaide is one of the least expensive cities in the world, according to a survey conducted by global economics consultants Mercer Consulting Group (source: Mercer, May 2004).

In Mercer’s international annual cost of living survey, Adelaide regularly achieves an excellent ranking as one of the most affordable cities. Housing and rental costs are also lower in Adelaide than in most other modern cities of the world.

Adelaide is significantly less expensive than other Australian cities, particularly Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

Although Adelaide can boast a lower cost of living than the eastern States, incomes are not proportionately lower. The city also offers a wonderfully high standard of living, all of which is good news for potential migrants.

Current Economic Overview

Adelaide is the cultural, political and social epicentre of South Australia and in early 2004 was ranked the nation’s most competitive business city by KPMG International.

Main Industries

South Australia is a leader in the Australian food industry. It is the largest producer of quality lamb, has a flourishing fishing industry (a result of having the cleanest waters in the world), and is the source of fresh juices and sparkling mineral waters. It is also the most successful wine producing State, making about 50% of Australian wines and 65% of national wine exports.

Natural beauty, a temperate climate, and a thriving arts and cultural community combine to support the State’s billion-dollar tourism industry.

The region has also established a reputation for excellence in electronics and defence related manufacture which accounts for a third of the nation’s defence spending.

Employment Opportunities

South Australia is a very tolerant society that welcomes migrants from all cultures. The State government actively seeks migrants, particularly those with skills which are needed to help ensure the ongoing development of the State, and business migrants.

Adelaide offers many and varied job opportunities in the private and public sectors across a range of thriving key industries which currently include healthcare, engineering, wine, automotive, manufacturing, defence, services, medical research and hospitality.

Skilled Vacancies/Shortages

The South Australian Immigration site has very useful information for potential migrants and has useful fact sheets which may help aid your decision process. You can also download a very helpful brochure on skilled migration: www.immigration.sa.gov.au

Adelaide is also one of the few capital cities in Australia that allows migrants to apply under the Skilled Independent Regional Visa scheme. This visa is generally only applicable to rural areas to encourage skilled workers out of the city and into the regions. However, as Adelaide is experiencing shortages in their workforce you may be able to apply via this route which allows those who do not meet the points required for Skilled Regional Migration the chance to secure a three-year work visa. For further information refer to the DIMIA website: www.immi.gov.au/facts/26state.htm