Settling in Bunbury suits skilled workers wanting a mid-sized coastal city in Western Australia. Bunbury is a designated area for the 491 visa. This article analyses the option for skilled migrants.
Settling in Bunbury: labour market and jobs
Settling in Bunbury means a labour market tied to seaports (a port exporting minerals and agricultural produce), mineral mining and processing, healthcare (Bunbury Regional Hospital), education (Edith Cowan University campus) and tourism.
Skilled workers in healthcare, education, engineering, mining or local services have opportunities. Bunbury is WA’s third-largest city after Perth and Mandurah.
Life and cost of living in Bunbury
Bunbury has very comfortable living and rental costs compared with Perth. The city sits on Koombana Bay, known for its beautiful beaches and dolphin watching.
The Mediterranean climate is similar to Perth’s, with hot dry summers and mild wet winters. It is located about a 2-hour drive south of Perth. With a population of about 75,000, its small size and relaxed pace of life suit families wanting to leave Perth.
The Vietnamese community and visa notes
Bunbury has a very small Vietnamese community; newcomers should be prepared for limited Vietnamese services. They can connect with the larger community in Perth when needed.
Bunbury is a designated area for the 491 visa, giving residents a 15-point bonus for this stream. It suits skilled workers willing to live in a mid-sized coastal city away from Perth. Skilled migration to Bunbury still follows the federal system; you should check current requirements.
You should refer to official Home Affairs website and Home Affairs – Skilled visas to check current conditions.
Summary
Bunbury is a WA coastal city of about 75,000 (WA’s third-largest), with jobs in seaports, mineral mining, healthcare (Bunbury Regional Hospital), education (ECU campus), tourism. Very comfortable costs. On Koombana Bay with dolphins. 2 hours from Perth. Very small Vietnamese community. A designated 491 area (15-point bonus).
