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​Australia is the sixth largest country in the world (geographically) and Western Australia is its largest state.

Despite its size, the population density is amongst the lowest in the world. Approximately 23 million* people live in Australia and 2.5 million* in Western Australia.

Within Western Australia over 35%* of people were born overseas creating a multicultural environment.

Australia’s cultural diversity is a strength which makes for a dynamic society. Within the framework of Australia’s laws, all people are able to express their culture and beliefs. Other Australian principles and values include:

  • respect for the equal worth, dignity and freedom of the individual;

  • freedom of speech;

  • freedom of religion and secular government;

  • freedom of association;

  • support for parliamentary democracy and the rule of law;

  • equality under the law;

  • equality of men and women;

  • equality of opportunity;

  • peacefulness; and

  • a spirit of egalitarianism that embraces tolerance, mutual respect and compassion for those in need.

 

Birthplaces of people within Western Australia*
(Significant numbers within 2011 Census)

​Birthplace​Percentage of population
​Australia​62.9%
​England​8.9%
​New Zealand​3.2%
​South Africa​1.6%
India​​1.3%
​Scotland​1.2%

*Figures sourced from the Australian Bureau of Statistics​
News

Welcome news for international students – Graduate stream of the State Nominated Migration program expanded to include VET graduates

The Graduate stream of the State Nominated Migration Program provides a skilled migration pathway for international students graduating from university in Western Australia.  From December 2019, the Graduate stream has been extended to include VET graduates who complete a qualification in Western Australia at Certificate III level or above. 

The Graduate stream is also more accessible for international students:

studies in higher education, VET (Certificate III level and above) and/or English language courses for overseas students (ELICOS) studies all count towards the requirement to study for two years in Western Australia.

Graduates need to demonstrate either six months' work experience in Australia OR a six month employment contract in Western Australia, but not both.  Previously international students needed to have 12 months of work experience plus a job offer for 12 months.

A new Graduate Occupation List (GOL) and updated eligibility criteria are now available.  

For more information on the changes to the Graduate stream, visit the Graduate stream requirements page.

The criteria for the General stream of the State Nomination Migration Program  will remain the same; however the Western Australian State Migration Occupation List (WASMOL) has been updated. 

Fun Fact
Western Australia is the largest Australian state with an area of more than 2 500 000 square km, a 12 500 km coastline and spanning 2 400 km from north to south.