Top 10 Safest City in Australia To Live and Visit for International Students

When choosing a city to study in Australia, safety is a top priority for international students. It is important to find the safest city in Australia that offers a secure environment, a heart-warming environment, and a exciting student life. Australia ranks 11th on the Global Finance Safest Country Index 2023 with a score of 6.7699, indicating its ability to manage risks like natural disasters and violent crime. This reputation make Australia a fantastic choice for international students looking for a safe and enriching experience.

10 Safest City in Australia for International Students

When looking for the safest city in Australia, several key factors come into play. While crime rates are generally lower than in many countries, it is essential to consider specific cities. 

Personal security is important for international students, particularly regarding risks like harassment or theft. 

Australia also faces natural disasters such as bushfires and floods, making cities with strong disaster management plans safer options. 

Additionally, the quality and responsiveness of emergency services, including hospitals and police, are important. Communities that promote safety through initiatives like neighborhood watch programs significantly enhance overall security.

Here is a list of the ten safest cities in Australia for international students, along with their safety and crime indices:

Name of City	Safety Index	Crime Index
Darwin	38.20	61.80
Wollongong	50.20	49.80
Melbourne	56.00	44.00
Perth	57.50	42.50
Brisbane	63.10	36.90
Adelaide	64.73	35.27
Sydney	65.60	34.4
Canberra	72.20	27.80
Hobart	74.69	25.31
Gold Coast	53.60	46.40

Also Read: The Australian Way of Life: A Guide for Indian Students

Safe Cities in Australia: What They Offer International Students

Let us learn about each city with highlights why they are considered the safest place in Australia and how it is useful for international students:

1.  Darwin

Darwin is one of the safest places in Australia for international students, with a safety index of 38.3 and a very low crime rate of 61.8. Home to Charles Darwin University, this city boasts a close-knit community that provides plenty of international student resources and affordable accommodation. 

With a low cost of living, students can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. Safe suburbs like Casuarina and Palmerston make it even more appealing for those looking for a secure environment while studying.

Name of City	Darwin
Safety Index	38.2
Crime Index	61.8
Crime Rate	Very Low
Key Universities	Charles Darwin University
Student Support	Close-knit community, international student resources, affordable accommodation
Cost of Living	Low
Popular Safe Suburbs	Casuarina, Palmerston

2.  Wollongong

Wollongong, with a safety index of 50.2, is another safest place in Australia for international students. The University of Wollongong offers various support services, including on-campus security and mental health resources. 

The crime rate here is also very low, and the cost of living is manageable, with affordable student accommodation options. Popular safe suburbs like North Wollongong and Keiraville provide students with a welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal place to study.

Name of City	Wollongong
Safety Index	50.2
Crime Index	49.8
Crime Rate	Very Low
Key Universities	University of Wollongong
Student Support	On-campus security, mental health services, student well-being programs
Cost of Living	Low (affordable student accommodation)
Popular Safe Suburbs	North Wollongong, Keiraville

3.  Melbourne

Melbourne ranks as one of the safest places in Australia, with a safety index of 56 and a low crime rate, especially in student areas. It is home to prestigious institutions like the University of Melbourne and Monash University. 

The city offers excellent student support, including safety apps and mental health services. 

Although the cost of living is moderate to high, popular safe suburbs such as Carlton and Parkville provide a vibrant student lifestyle while ensuring safety.

Name of City	Melbourne
Safety Index	56
Crime Index	44
Crime Rate	Low (especially in student areas)
Key Universities	University of Melbourne, Monash University, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology,
Student Support	Safety apps, emergency buttons, mental health support, secure housing options
Cost of Living	Moderate to High
Popular Safe Suburbs	Carlton, Parkville

4. Perth

Perth is considered one of the safest places in Australia for international students, with a safety index of 57.5 and a low crime rate. The University of Western Australia and Curtin University provide a strong academic foundation, along with cultural programs and safety workshops. 

While the cost of living is moderate, safe suburbs like Subiaco and Claremont offer students a secure environment to thrive in their studies and personal lives.

Name of City	Perth
Safety Index	57.5
Crime Index	42.5
Crime Rate	Low
Key Universities	University of Western Australia, Curtin University|
Student Support	Cultural programs, student safety workshops, emergency response initiatives
Cost of Living	Moderate (lower than Sydney & Melbourne)
Popular Safe Suburbs	Subiaco, Claremont

5. Brisbane

Brisbane, with a safety index of 63.1, stands out as a safest place in Australia for international students. Key universities like the University of Queensland and Griffith University provide solid support services, including secure transport and wellness centers. 

The city enjoys a low crime rate, and the cost of living is moderate. Safe suburbs like St Lucia and South Brisbane enhance the appeal for students seeking a safe and supportive environment.

Name of City	Brisbane
Safety Index	63.1
Crime Index	36.9
Crime Rate	Low
Key Universities	University of Queensland, Griffith University
Student Support	Safety services, secure transport, on-Campus  wellness centres
Cost of Living	Moderate
Popular Safe Suburbs	St Lucia, South Brisbane

Also Read: Is Griffith University in a Regional Area?: A Comprehensive Guide for International Students

6. Adelaide

Adelaide is one of the safest places in Australia, boasting a safety index of 64.73 and a very low crime rate. With renowned institutions like the University of Adelaide and Flinders University, students benefit from extensive mental health resources and accommodation support. 

The low cost of living and safe suburbs such as North Adelaide and Prospect create a welcoming atmosphere for international students.

Name of City	Adelaide
Safety Index	64.73
Crime Index	35.27
Crime Rate	Very Low
Key Universities	University of Adelaide, Flinders University
Student Support	Mental health resources, emergency helplines, student accommodation support
Cost of Living	Low (affordable housing and living costs)
Popular Safe Suburbs	North Adelaide, Prospect

 7. Sydney

Sydney, a major global city, is recognized as one of the safest places in Australia with a safety index of 65.6. The University of Sydney and the University of New South Wales offer top-tier education along with 24/7 campus security and mental health services. 

While the cost of living is high, especially in central areas, safe suburbs like Kensington and Newtown provide international students with a secure and vibrant living environment.

Name of City	Sydney
Safety Index	65.6
Crime Index	34.4
Crime Rate	Moderate (well-patrolled areas)
Key Universities	University of Sydney, University of South Wales, University of Technology
Student Support	24/7 campus security, mental health services, cultural adaptation programs
Cost of Living	High (especially rent in central areas)
Popular Safe Suburbs	Kensington, Newtown

8. Canberra

Canberra is the capital of Australia and one of the safest places in Australia for international students, with a safety index of 72.2 and a very low crime rate. 

The Australian National University and the University of Canberra offer excellent student support, including on-campus security and wellness programs. With a moderate cost of living and safe suburbs like Belconnen and Bruce, students can enjoy a peaceful and enriching study experience.

Name of City	Canberra
Safety Index	72.2
Crime Index	27.8
Crime Rate	Very Low
Key Universities	Australia National University, University of Canberra
Student Support	On-campus security, wellness programs, close-knit community
Cost of Living	Moderate (affordable rent in suburbs)
Popular Safe Suburbs	Belconnen and Bruce

9.  Hobart

Hobart is celebrated as one of the safest places in Australia, with a safety index of 74.69 and a very low crime rate. The University of Tasmania provides strong international student support and mental health services in a close-knit community environment. 

The cost of living is low, and popular safe suburbs like Sandy Bay and Lenah Valley create a friendly atmosphere for students.

Name of City	Hobart
Safety Index	74.69
Crime Index	25.31
Crime Rate	Very Low
Key Universities	University of Tasmania
Student Support	International student support, mental health services, close community environment
Cost of Living	Low (affordable cost of living and rent)
Popular Safe Suburbs	Sandy Bay, Lenah Valley

10. Gold Coast 

Gold Coast, with a safety index of 53.6, is recognized as one of the safest places in Australia for international students. Home to Griffith University and Bond University, the city offers 24/7 campus security and cultural integration programs. 

Although the cost of living ranges from moderate to high, safe suburbs like Southport and Robina ensure that students can enjoy a secure and supportive environment as they pursue their studies.

Name of City	Gold Coast
Safety Index	53.6
Crime Index	46.4
Crime Rate	Low
Key Universities	Griffith University, Bond University
Student Support	24/7 campus security, cultural integration programs, student safety workshops
Cost of Living	Moderate to High
Popular Safe Suburbs	Southport, Robina

Additional Safety Tips for Students to Live in the Safest City in Australia

Here are some additional safety tips for students to live in Australia for international students:

Safety Point 1: Always avoid walking alone at night, especially in areas you are not familiar with. It’s safer to travel in groups when possible.

Safety Point 2: Stay alert to what’s happening around you. Trust your instincts and if something feels off, take action to ensure your safety.

Safety Point 3: Keep your valuables out of sight. Use bags that close securely, and avoid showing off expensive items when you’re out.

Safety Point 4: Knowing a few self-defense techniques can boost your confidence and help you feel more secure.

Safety Point 5: Respect local customs and traditions. Being aware of cultural norms can help you avoid misunderstandings and potential safety issues.

Safety Point 6: Make sure you have the emergency contact numbers saved on your phone. Familiarize yourself with the locations of nearby police stations, hospitals, and fire departments.

Safety Point 7: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. It is important to cover potential medical expenses, property loss, and any unexpected events that may arise during your stay.

Conclusion

In summary, the safest city in Australia for international students combines security, community support, and an enriching educational experience. By choosing to study in this welcoming environment, students can focus on their academic and personal growth without the stress of safety concerns. 

With a developing culture, beautiful scenes, and a reputation for being friendly, Australia truly offers everything an international student could wish for. So, if you are planning to study in Australia, consider making this safe and vibrant city your home away from home!

Also Read: Top 10 Country-Based Scholarships for Muslim Students Studying Abroad

FAQs

We hope this blog gives you a complete overview of the safest city in Australia

for International Students. Stay tuned to Leverage Edu for more such content on student life abroad. Thank you for reading!

Related Read: 

Australia Skilled Occupation List	Popular University of Southern Queensland Scholarships for UG, PG & Research
Top 10 Tips & Tricks for Saving Money in Australia for Indian International Students	Top 7 Macquarie University Scholarships: A Guide for Aspiring International Students
RMIT Scholarships for International Students	Top 7 University of Adelaide Scholarships for International Students