​​​​​​​

Image of manufacturing skills
 

​​​​Mining and resources

The Western Australian economy is largely dominated by the mining and resources sector. Western Australia’s land is rich with resources (iron-ore, gold, natural gas and diamonds) that are mined, processed and exported all over
the world.​

 

Agriculture

The State produces several products for Australia and the international
export market:

  • wheat, barley and other grains;

  • wool, lamb and beef;

  • seafood (western rock lobsters, prawns, crabs, shark and tuna); and

  • wine.

 

Manufacturing

The manufacturing of mined resources (engineering metals, shipbuilding, petrol and diesel) form a large proportion of this industry.
Food manufacturing and processing from the agricultural industry contribute strongly to the economy.

 

Tourism and education

These industries have grown significantly during the past few years with more international tourists visiting Western Australia and students choosing to study here. Towns with smaller populations have benefited from this increase, as the generated income increases the prosperity of the region.​

News

Welcome news for international students – Graduate stream of the State Nominated Migration program expanded to include VET graduates

The Graduate stream of the State Nominated Migration Program provides a skilled migration pathway for international students graduating from university in Western Australia.  From December 2019, the Graduate stream has been extended to include VET graduates who complete a qualification in Western Australia at Certificate III level or above. 

The Graduate stream is also more accessible for international students:

studies in higher education, VET (Certificate III level and above) and/or English language courses for overseas students (ELICOS) studies all count towards the requirement to study for two years in Western Australia.

Graduates need to demonstrate either six months' work experience in Australia OR a six month employment contract in Western Australia, but not both.  Previously international students needed to have 12 months of work experience plus a job offer for 12 months.

A new Graduate Occupation List (GOL) and updated eligibility criteria are now available.  

For more information on the changes to the Graduate stream, visit the Graduate stream requirements page.

The criteria for the General stream of the State Nomination Migration Program  will remain the same; however the Western Australian State Migration Occupation List (WASMOL) has been updated. 

Fun Fact
Albany, founded in 1826 and located 409 km from Perth on the southern coast is the oldest settlement in Western Australia.