Wollongong, population around 290,000, is in the Illawara region of New South Wales. 81 kilometres south of Sydney on a stunning stretch of the Pacific coast; it’s known for its beaches, busy arts community and the friendly, easy going locals. Wollongong offers migrants many of the benefits of its larger neighbour- without the expense and the traffic jams.

Good schools; cultural activities, and plenty of healthy outdoors action in a warm/mild climate. Move to Wollongong for all the ingredients of good family life. Specialist schools in the town include a performing arts high school and a selective public school for gifted and talented students. Wollongong has 80 kilometres of recreational cycling tracks and several excellent swimming and surfing beaches. If you are a farmers’ market fan try The Leisure Coast Fruit Market at Fairy Meadow. Large weekend crowds come all the way from Sydney for the deli goods and array of fresh produce.

The University of Wollongong, with more than 22,000 students, has a fine international reputation, and is one of the region’s largest employers. Migrants in the teaching and nursing professions can have a better lifestyle by moving to Wollongong than would be affordable in the bigger cities. The region’s other major employer is BlueScope Steel, Australia’s biggest steel works. Some 20,000 Wollongong residents also commute to jobs in Sydney, only an hour away.

The northern suburbs of Wollongong, including Bulli, Scarborough and Woonona are considered highly desirable places to live, but are among the most expensive. There are a number of nice coastal suburbs to choose from, like Thirroul, which have good public transport access. Even Port Kembla, which was once frowned upon because of its industrialisation is becoming popular for cheap historic houses and quirky appeal.