About Country NSW

Country NSW is rich in authentic rural Australian experiences. Stretching from Tenterfield in the NSW north-east to Broken Hill in the far west and Oberon in the central west, the region covers the state’s most diverse landscapes, from rugged country plains and farming communities to World Heritage Listed national parks and tranquil rivers. The region’s clean, green, open spaces are home to some of the state’s fastest growing inland cities. Recognised as a premier agribusiness and food production hub, cool-climate vineyards and food trails are plentiful. A strong agricultural heritage is supported by regional incubators, breeding and genetics research organisations and co-operative research centres.

Study destinations: Bathurst & Armidale

Two and a half hours’ drive west of Sydney, Bathurst is Australia’s oldest inland settlement and was the site of the first gold discovery in Australia. Today education, tourism, manufacturing and food production drive its economy. On track to become a smart city, Bathurst combines technology, data and skills to encourage economic activity and accelerate innovation. Charles Sturt University (CSU) has its headquarters here, and up to 60 other educational institutions offer placements across the city. CSU was ranked number 1 for graduate employment in 2020, with its graduates reported to secure jobs faster than those from any other university in Australia.

Home to one of Australia’s oldest universities, Armidale is under six hours’ drive north of Sydney and known for its strong education, health care, agriculture, forestry and fishing sectors. The University of New England’s Smart Region Incubator in Armidale fosters research, development, entrepreneurial and commercial activity across livestock production and research, including international livestock genetics and animal health. Study globally relevant subjects including agriculture and environmental science in a pristine, and typically Australian, environment.

Bathurst

• Distance from Sydney: 3 hours by car / 40 minute flight / 4.5 hours rail
• Population: 45,240
• Largest industries: Education, health care, manufacturing, agriculture, forestry and fishing
• Rental prices: $370 per week (3-bed house) / $290 per week (2-bed unit)
• Shared rooms and homestays: Campus rooms from $180 per week, off-site properties from $180 per week
• International sister cities: Okuma, Japan; Liyama, Japan
• Convenient location between Sydney and Canberra

Biggest employment sectors in Bathurst

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Bathurst is the home of Mount Panorama, one of the world’s most famous motor racing circuits, and the Bathurst 1000 Supercars event draws tens of thousands of tourists each year. But there is so much more to do and see in this incredibly diverse city. A great food and wine scene (which has a lot to do with its nearby cool-climate vineyards and agricultural heritage), fascinating historical sites, and amazing nature experiences including pristine bushland, farms and limestone caves, mean there is something to please everyone in this unique environment. And when friends and relatives come to visit, plan a trip to the famous Blue Mountains, which are just an hour away.

Visit the Bathurst Region and Visit NSW websites for the latest on where to eat, drink, shop, live and play in Australia’s oldest inland settlement.

Armidale

Biggest employment sectors in Armidale

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Armidale offers a healthy and active lifestyle and the opportunity to experience some of Australia’s most beautiful scenery, including World Heritage-listed national parks, state forests and even one of the highest waterfalls in Australia. Paddle along the Macleay River, go white-water rafting or trout fishing, or simply check out the city’s live music scene while enjoying a drink from a local vineyard. Then there are the wonderful galleries, museums, fine food and culture experiences. For more information on events and experiences around Armidale go to the Armidale Tourism or Visit NSW websites.