Regional Postcode Checker (Australia)
Check if an Australian postcode is classified as regional (Category 2 or Category 3), and explore an interactive map of classified postcodes.
Regional Postcode Checker
Check if your postcode qualifies for regional migration benefits
- • Additional 5-15 points for skilled migration
- • Extended post-study work rights (up to 6 years)
- • Priority processing for certain visas
- • Access to regional provisional visas (subclass 491, 494)
Understanding Australia’s Category 2 and Category 3 Regional Areas for Visa Applicants
Australia’s migration system is designed not just to bring skilled talent into the country, but also to encourage population growth in areas outside the major metropolitan centres. That’s why regional migration plays such an important role.
If you’re considering studying, working, or settling in Australia, you’ll often hear about Category 2 (Cities & Major Regional Centres) and Category 3 (Regional Centres & Other Regional Areas). But what do these categories actually mean, and what benefits do they offer compared to the Category 1 metropolitan cities (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane)?
This guide breaks it down for you in detail.
The Three Regional Categories in Australia
- Category 1 – Metropolitan Areas: Includes Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. These cities do not get any regional visa concessions.
- Category 2 – Cities & Major Regional Centres: Larger cities outside the big three capitals, such as Perth, Adelaide, Canberra, Newcastle, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Wollongong, Geelong, Hobart.
- Category 3 – Regional Centres & Other Regional Areas: All other designated regional towns and smaller cities, e.g., Ballarat, Bendigo, Toowoomba; Cairns, Townsville; Launceston, Lismore, Whyalla; and many rural and remote towns across Australia.
Benefits for International Students
International students studying in regional areas enjoy some of the biggest advantages.
- Post‑Study Work (regional extension): Many graduates who studied in designated regional areas can apply for an additional Temporary Graduate visa period (Second Post‑Higher Education Work stream). Indicatively, Category 2 locations typically grant +1 year and Category 3 locations up to +2 years, subject to current DHA policy and your degree level. Students in Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane do not receive a regional extension.
- Scholarships and Incentives: Regional universities often provide Destination Australia scholarships and additional financial support, with Category 3 institutions particularly targeted to attract more students.
Example: A graduate who studied in Perth (Category 2) may be eligible for an additional year via the regional extension, while a graduate from Cairns (Category 3) may be eligible for up to two additional years. Always confirm current durations and eligibility on the DHA website.
Benefits for Skilled Workers
Migrants applying through skilled visas also see substantial incentives:
- Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional) & Subclass 494 (Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional): Both visa types are available in Category 2 and Category 3 areas but not in Category 1 cities.
- Extra Migration Points: Applicants sponsored by a regional state/territory or eligible family member for an eligible regional provisional visa receive 15 additional points toward their points test.
- Priority Processing (program‑dependent): Some visa programs prioritise regional applications over metropolitan ones (especially employer‑sponsored). There isn’t a formal priority difference between Category 2 and Category 3 themselves.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency (Subclass 191): After 3 years of living and working in a designated regional area, visa holders may apply for permanent residency — available to both Category 2 and 3.
Employer and Community Benefits
- Employer Sponsorship: Employers in Category 3 areas often have more labour agreement concessions available (such as relaxed skill level or English language requirements). Category 2 employers also benefit but usually with fewer concessions.
- Community Growth: These migration incentives are part of Australia’s strategy to boost workforce numbers and economic activity in less populated regions.
Category 2 vs Category 3: Key Differences
| Feature | Category 2 | Category 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Post-Study Work Visa Extension | +1 year | +2 years |
| Visa Processing Priority | Regional priority over metro in some programs | Same as Cat 2 (no formal Cat 2 vs Cat 3 priority) |
| Employer Concessions | Some | Broader access |
| Scholarships | Available | More targeted & extensive |
| Migration Goal | Support growth in major regional hubs | Attract workers/students to smaller towns & remote areas |
Why Not Category 1?
Studying or working in Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane may offer urban lifestyle perks, but you’ll miss out on:
- No regional bonus years on your graduate visa.
- No access to subclass 491 or 494 visas.
- More competition for jobs and higher living costs.
For many migrants, the trade-off is clear: choosing a regional pathway makes long-term residency more achievable.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between Category 2 and Category 3 regions depends on your personal goals. If you prefer a balance between urban lifestyle and migration incentives, Category 2 cities like Adelaide or the Gold Coast might be ideal.
If you’re willing to embrace smaller or remote communities, Category 3 areas provide the strongest visa advantages — especially the valuable +2 year post-study work visa extension and highest processing priority.
Either way, regional pathways offer clear benefits over metropolitan cities for international students and skilled migrants seeking a future in Australia.