In the year ending September 2023, Australia saw a record net increase in population of almost 550,000 people. Predominantly, this figure was driven by a rise in individuals arriving on temporary work and student visas.
This trend continued in 2024, with nearly 50,000 people from the UK alone coming to England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales on working holiday visas. This figure represented a significantly higher number than the previous year.
These statistics indicate a strong, ongoing movement of people from all over the world to move to Australia for work. The country is home to over 2.6 million small businesses, making it an especially attractive destination for launching a start-up.
If you are considering relocating to “The Lucky Country” to set up your own venture, you may be wondering where the best city to do so is. Whether you’re looking at Sydney’s bustling finance sector, Melbourne’s creative scene or Brisbane’s growing startup community, there’s a city that can match your ambition.
This guide will walk you through some of the top choices available to you.
Moving To Australia
Before we explore the different cities in Australia where you can start a new business, it is worth pointing out that relocating Down Under is a major endeavour.
For this reason, it is advisable to enlist the help of experts like Muval’s professional movers, who will make the process much less stressful when you’re thinking about packing up your life and personal belongings.
They can help handle the logistics, so you can focus your energies on settling in and planning your future in Australia.
Where To Start A Business In Australia
Australia’s cities offer a mix of strong industries, supportive business ecosystems and a high quality of life. Each one offers something unique. Here is a rundown of what you can expect.
1. Sydney
Sydney is often the first city people think of when considering where to relocate in Australia for work. As the country’s financial hub, it is home to several multinational companies, many of which operate in industries like finance, technology and professional services.
Companies here also benefit from a strong startup ecosystem, which includes incubators, co-working spaces and regular networking events. Admittedly, the cost of living in Australian cities is highest in Sydney, but the financial opportunities and potential rewards often outweigh the expense.
2. Melbourne
Melbourne enjoys a reputation for being the cultural capital of Australia. For entrepreneurs in design, digital media, education or health, this city is a very attractive option.
“The Settlement” (aka Melbourne) is renowned for its creative energy. It also offers plenty of business opportunities for migrants, especially thanks to the support offered by the Victorian Government.
This includes grants and funding programs that are aimed at new ventures, which make them easier to set up and grow. Paired with Melbourne’s diverse population and strong demand for fresh ideas, the city becomes a very exciting place to start a business.
3. Brisbane
In recent years, Brisbane has been making waves as a city with a strong focus on entrepreneurship.
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At the same time, it has become an attractive option due to the cost of living being cheaper here than in Sydney and Melbourne. This means that if you set up a commercial venture, you can potentially stretch your budget further.
A couple of areas where the city is developing a strong reputation in business are tech startups and health sciences. This is partly due to programs like River City Labs and government support, which give newcomers great entry points.
One of the best things about Brisbane is that it is “The Sunshine State”. You can enjoy over 300 days of sunshine every year. With the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast being only an hour away, the work/life balance is also much better here than in Sydney and Melbourne.
4. Perth
If your focus is on mining, energy or trade, Perth is your best bet. While it is one of the most isolated cities in the world, the capital of Western Australia has long been a hub for the resources industry. Its location on the West Coast makes it a key player in international trade, especially with Asia.
It may not have the same startup ecosystem as other cities in Australia, but Perth does offer niche opportunities. As a result, Perth can provide a strong base for those relocating with skills in engineering, construction or logistics. The lifestyle is also appealing, with world-class beaches, plenty of sunshine and lots of green space.
5. Adelaide
Adelaide often flies under the radar, but it is a surprisingly good city for entrepreneurs to launch a business in Australia. To start with, the quality of life is very high here, thanks to the lower cost of housing and its relaxed pace. The city is also building a good reputation for itself in areas like defence, renewable energy and wine exports.
For smaller ventures, the supportive local community makes it easier to connect and collaborate with other like-minded creatives and business people. In addition, for many migrants, Adelaide offers a softer landing than the bigger cities, while still giving them access to thriving industries.
6. Canberra
As the nation’s capital, Canberra is ideal for businesses linked to government, education and research. The city also has strong ties with universities, which makes it a good option for ventures in innovation and technology.
Many small business grants in Australia are often rolled out through federal programs, most of which are headquartered here. That makes Canberra an attractive option for entrepreneurs who want to stay close or try to influence policymakers. The pace of life is quieter here than in Sydney or Melbourne.
Last Updated on October 6, 2025 by Nick Ross
