Welcome to The University of Queensland: 6 best reasons to live and study in Brisbane

Interested in studying in Australia? Let’s introduce you to Brisbane, the capital city of Queensland - one of the largest states in Australia. Home to 2.6 million people, the city is a melting pot of multiculturalism and is famous for its unique combination of big-city attractions and friendly, relaxed locals. 

There are always plenty of things to do in and around Brisbane: shopping in the central business district, day trips to the beaches on the Gold Coast or relaxing on a warm summer night by taking in the views at Howard Smith Wharves.

Brisbane’s liveability, affordability, accessibility and ease, coupled with friendly and welcoming locals, makes Brisbane a top study destination for international students. Here are the 6 best reasons to live and study in Brisbane.

1. Warm climate

Queensland is called the Sunshine State for a reason - with clear blue skies illuminated by 240 days of sunshine each year, Brisbane’s weather is almost always warm and sunny. Summer averages are lower than 30°C, and winter minimums only reach 11°C, making it perfect for those who love the outdoors and days by the beach.

The weather makes it easy to plan a day trip to one of the picturesque locations in or around the city, and the warm evenings are perfect for a night out or taking in views of the Brisbane River. Queensland’s winter months are much warmer than most areas in Australia, with dry and pleasant days.

If you want to make the most of your time in Australia by exploring your new city to the fullest, without gloomy and rainy days keeping you inside, Brisbane is a great option.

2. World-class education

The most prestigious tertiary provider in Queensland is The University of Queensland, currently ranked top =40th in the world (according to QS World University Rankings).

UQ’s degrees are globally renowned, with some specialisations recognised in the top 20 worldwide, for example, sports-related subjects (2nd), Mineral and Mining Engineering (4th), Agriculture and Forestry (19th), Petroleum Engineering (18th) and Environmental Sciences (18th).

With over 380 degrees on offer, UQ provides opportunities for many future career pathways.

3. Strong employment sectors 

As an international student, you may be eligible to work while you’re studying in Brisbane. There are several sectors that are particularly suited to part-time work, such as hospitality, retail and tourism. Balancing your study load with a job can mean boosting your employability, building your professional network and gaining new workplace skills.

There’s also a high chance that you can find full-time work after you graduate. Queensland’s unemployment rate in May 2024 was 4.1%, amongst the lowest the state has seen since the 1970s. A low unemployment rate is an indicator of good work prospects, which will make it easier for you to find a job once you graduate. 

At UQ, the Careers and Employability team are on hand to help you on your employment journey. You can access seminars and career advice, especially curated for students. With all this support, you’ll be ready to start your dream career right after graduation.

4. Great value living

Brisbane offers great value living compared to other Australian capital cities – from accommodation to transport, entertainment and events, to food and dining out. For a high-quality lifestyle, your dollar will go further living in Brisbane.

Austrade has created a useful Cost of Living Calculator on the expenses you can expect living in Brisbane.

With more bang for your buck, your student budget can stretch further, meaning you can enjoy more of your life in Brisbane.

5. Exponential growth

Brisbane is experiencing an exciting period of growth and opportunity with a lot of new infrastructure projects having been announced. Construction has already begun on a new metro system, the transformation of a former golf course into a walkable public space and new bridges to improve transport.

With all the investment flowing into the city, and into social improvements such as health, volunteering and community benefits, there’s never been a better time to settle down in Brisbane - a place of opportunity for all and a truly contemporary global city.

6. Beautiful natural wonders

Brisbane is Australia’s nature capital, a modern, sustainable, open-air city with room to breathe. Home to some of the world’s largest sand islands and ancient heritage-listed rainforests, unique escapes and adventures call from the mountains, the city and the bay.

• Mount Coot-tha lookout is a great place to take in the picturesque skyline of Brisbane. It’s only an 18-minute drive from Brisbane, and there’s a cafe perched at the top where you can relax with a view.
• The Roma Street Parkland is a great place to take a stroll close to the city centre. It’s a beautiful spot to set up a picnic and walk through the vibrant gardens.
• If you’re looking for world-class surfing beaches within an hour of Brisbane, you’ll definitely want to check out the Gold Coast.
• Mount Glorious is roughly a 45-minute drive from Brisbane, and home to gorgeous swimming holes, hikes, lookouts and scenic drives.

We can’t wait to welcome you to Brisbane!