Western Australia (WA) is Australia’s largest state. Known as the “Wildflower State,” WA boasts one of the world’s most extensive collections of wildflowers, with 60% of these species found nowhere else on Earth. It is a place to true contrasts: from arid deserts in the east to pristine coastlines in the west. Western Australia’s economy hinges on mining, oil and gas, services, and construction, and it has become the world’s largest iron ore producer.
Perth, the state capital of Western Australia, is also Australia’s fourth most populous city. Nestled alongside the Swan River, Perth boasts an impressive average of 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, earning its reputation as the sunniest state capital. It consistently ranks among the world’s most livable cities, offering its residents a stress-free lifestyle, a top-notch health system, and low crime rates.”
Western Australia enjoys an ideal climate for year-round adventure. Summers are hot and dry, with temperatures reaching 30°C. Rainfall is minimal during this season, and February tends to be the hottest month. During autumn, Perth experiences pleasant warm days and cooler nights. Winters are cool and wet, with rain and thunderstorms. Winter temperatures range from 8°C to 19°C. Spring days are generally sunny, with temperatures from 12°C to 23°C.
Perth attracts international students with its cost-effective living, affordable transportation, and expansive job prospects.
Moreover, the city provides access to top-tier education through renowned universities, colleges, and schools including the
In 2023, Western Australia’s population reached 2.9 million. Perth experienced the highest growth rate (3.6%) compared to the previous year, primarily driven by net overseas migration. As of June 2021, the top 10 countries of birth for residents in Western Australia were England, New Zealand, India, South Africa, Philippines, Malaysia, China, Scotland, Vietnam, and Ireland.
Perth’s median age is 37.8 years, compared to 40.3 years in the rest of Western Australia. The city also has a higher proportion of its population aged 20 to 39 years (28%) than the rest of the state (24%). Conversely, there is a lower proportion of people aged 50 years and above in Perth (33%) compared to the rest of the state (38%). This trend aligns with young adults relocating to the capital city for educational and employment opportunities.
In Perth, females outnumber males, with a sex ratio of 99.2 males per 100 females. Conversely, in the rest of Western Australia, males outnumber females, with a ratio of 105.0.
In 2021, based on the responses of employed people aged 15 years and over:
The top 5 occupations in WA are professionals, technicians and trades workers, managers, clerical and administrative workers, and community and personal service workers.
The top 5 industry of employment are hospitals (except psychiatric hospitals), iron ore mining, primary education, supermarket and grocery stores, and cafes and restaurants.
The median weekly income is $848 for personal, $2,214 for family, and $1,815 for household.
What are some of the popular places to explore in Perth and the rest of South Australia?
Perth
At the top of the list, the city center is only a 20-minute drive from the airport. Explore Perth’s 19 beaches, framed by the vast Kings Park—one of the world’s most beautiful inner-city parks. The iconic blue Crawley Edge Boatshed along the Swan River is a favorite photo spot for tourists and locals.
Cottesloe
Home to one of Western Australia's most iconic beaches, Cottesloe offers swimming, surfing, Indian Ocean sunsets, lively Sunday sessions, and an annual world-class sculpture park exhibition.
The Bell Tower
Located on Riverside Drive, it houses the Swan Bells—a set of 18 bells, making it one of the largest musical instruments globally.
Fremantle
This historic port city at the mouth of the Swan River boasts narrow streets lined with historic buildings, unconventional breweries, and unique shops. The harbor is the entrance point for many container ships, cruise ships, ferries, and leisure craft that berth at the port.
Rottnest Island
The island, just a 30-minute ferry ride from Fremantle, is a beach lover’s paradise and the habitat of quokkas—small marsupials often dubbed the “happiest animals on Earth.”
Swan Valley
Just 25 minutes from Perth, explore Western Australia’s oldest wine region. Discover world-class wineries, breweries, distilleries, gourmet artisan goods, and top-notch eateries.
Mandurah
An hour away from Perth, this coastal city is known for fishing, crabbing, dolphin spotting, and canal cruises.
Middle Island
South of the state and off the coast of Esperance, the island is the home of the pink-colored Lake Hillier.
Margaret River
The town enjoys global recognition for its exceptional surf breaks, making it a renowned surfing destination.
Kimberley Region
Surrounded by the Indian Ocean and mangroves, experience breathtaking sunsets on Cable Beach while riding a camel.