About Cairns
Cairns, the international gateway to tropical Far North Queensland, is a fantastic choice for international students. Known as the “sunny garden city where the Great Barrier Reef meets the Wet Tropics Rainforest," Cairns holds the reputation as the “safest tropical city in the world”. Cairns has a vibrant and exciting energy, and a moderate population of about 150,000, making it easy for students to navigate and get around. The city boasts great weather, a low cost of living, friendly locals and plenty of seasonal job opportunities.
Geography
Cairns is the northern most city, located in the eastern state of Queensland. Known as the 'Sunshine State', Queensland it is the second largest state in Australia. Cairns is well known for its close proximity to the magnificent Great Barrier Reef and World Heritage listed rainforests- both located within 30 minutes of the city. Over the ranges to the west are the Savannah lands of the Australian Outback, and to the north, the frontier wilderness of Cape York.
Cairns Weather
Cairns is located in the Wet Tropics region; it is hot and humid during the wet (summer) season, and mild and dry during the (winter) seasons. The average annual temperatures are a minimum of 17°C and a maximum of 33°C.
The wet season generally occurs between January and March, with an average rainfall of 1992mm over an average of 154 days of the year. The dry season runs from April to December, averaging warm temperatures, sunny days, and fantastic blue skies. Sea temperatures vary from a minimum 23°C in July to a maximum of 28°C in February.
| Melbourne | Sydney | Adelaide | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | 6 - 15 | 8 - 16 | 7 - 15 |
| Summer | 18 - 26 | 19 - 26 | 16 - 29 |
| Brisbane | Perth | Cairns | |
| Winter | 10 - 21 | 9 - 18 | 18 - 26 |
| Summer | 21-29 | 18 - 30 | 23 - 31 |
Average cost of living (not including tuition fees)
| Melbourne | Sydney | Adelaide | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per week | $446 - $586 | $346 - $404 | $275 - $440 |
| Per year (52 weeks) |
$23,200 - $30,500 | $18,000 - $21,000 | $14,300 - $22,880 |
| Source | Uni Melbourne | Australian Education International | Uni of South Australia |
| Brisbane | Perth | Cairns | |
| Per week | $327 - $365 | $403 - $456 | $250 - $310 |
| Per year (52 weeks) |
$17,000 - $18,980 | $20,977 - $23,712 | $13,000 - $16,120 |
| Source | Qld University of Technology | Uni of Western Australia | Tropical North Queensland TAFE |
Culture
Australia is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world, with a long history of immigration. Cairns stands as a cultural hub; it is home to more than 150,000 people from all corners of the world.
People in Cairns are generally very cheerful, positive, and laidback; the city has a very relaxed, easy-going culture. Many people in Cairns are on holiday, or work within the tourism industry, giving the city a very holiday-like feel. Many people who visit Cairns choose to stay and make it their permanent home, making Cairns a diverse, multicultural and welcoming city for international students.
