Perth, the capital of Western Australia, is a vibrant and growing city known for its stunning beaches, relaxed lifestyle, and strong economy.
For many Filipino migrants considering a move to Australia, Perth presents an attractive option due to its friendly communities and job opportunities particularly in mining, healthcare, and construction industries.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics Census data of 2021, there are 30,806 people in Greater Perth born in the Philippines. From this group, 73.6% obtained Australian citizenship.
Let’s discover the advantages and what makes Perth an attractive place for Filipino immigrants to relocate.
Stunning natural environment
One of the most striking features of Perth is its natural environment. It has long stretches of pristine coastline and well-maintained green spaces.
The city offers the kind of beauty that Filipinos used to island life and tropical scenery will find comforting and familiar.
The white sandy beaches of Scarborough, Cottesloe, and Fremantle are easy to reach from the city and perfect for weekend picnics, barbecues, or relaxing—similar to places like Boracay or Subic, but quieter and less crowded.
Nature lovers will enjoy Kings Park, one of the world’s biggest city parks, with great views of the skyline and Swan River. It’s perfect for jogging, family walks, or quiet time—like Luneta Park, but bigger and more peaceful.
Perth also supports an active lifestyle with safe trails, rivers for kayaking, and bike paths. If you like outdoor adventures in the Philippines, like trekking or island-hopping, you’ll find plenty of fun, nature-filled activities here too.
High quality of life
Perth is often ranked as one of the world’s most liveable cities (12th in 2023), offering the high quality of life many Filipino families hope for when migrating.
Safety is a top concern for parents, and Perth stands out with its low crime rates and family-friendly vibe. Unlike in big cities like Manila or Cebu, where safety can be a worry, especially at night, many Filipino migrants in Perth feel at ease walking in their neighbourhoods or spending time in parks without fear.
The clean air and abundance of green spaces also contribute greatly to Perth’s livability. Unlike the traffic pollution and congestion commonly experienced in Metro Manila, Perth’s urban planning includes wide streets, tree-lined suburbs, and well-maintained public parks that encourage outdoor activities and a healthy lifestyle.
This clean and green environment is ideal for raising children and maintaining well-being—something many Filipinos find refreshing for a new start.
On top of that, Perth boasts excellent healthcare and education systems. The public health system is accessible and of high quality, and there are also many private options for those who prefer more personalised care.
Filipino migrants often feel more secure knowing that medical help is available and reliable. In terms of education, Perth offers a wide range of public and private schools, many with multicultural support. The Universirty of Western Australia is ranked 77th globally, with Ateneo de Manila at 566th for context.
Job opportunities are available
Perth has one of the strongest economies in Australia, with many jobs in mining, energy, and tech. This means good opportunities for skilled Filipino workers, especially in engineering, construction, nursing, IT, and trades.
The mining industry, for example, often needs workers and offers high-paying FIFO (fly-in-fly-out) jobs. Compared to limited job options and lower salaries in the Philippines, Perth offers better pay and more stable career paths for families.
Perth’s job market is also growing in areas like healthcare, education, and hospitality, with strong demand as the population grows. Filipino professionals with experience or qualifications are often welcomed, especially if they qualify under Australia’s skilled migration program. There are also chances to upskill or take local training and bridging courses to match Australian standards.
One big advantage for Filipino migrants is the higher average salary in Perth, which is among the best in Australia. While living costs can be high, the pay often allows for better savings, financial stability, and sending support back home. For many Filipinos, working hard is nothing new—but in Perth, that effort often leads to real progress and a more comfortable life.
Great weather
One of the first things Filipinos notice in Perth is the great weather. With hot summers and mild winters, the climate feels familiar—especially for those from places like Davao, Cebu, or Manila. Summers can reach the high 30s or 40s°C, like the Philippines, but with less humidity. The dry heat is easier to handle, and most homes have good cooling systems, making it more comfortable.
Winters in Perth are mild compared to other parts of Australia, and much easier than winters in Europe or North America. It rarely goes below 5°C, and there’s no snow—just cool air and some rain. For Filipinos new to four seasons, Perth offers a gentle and pleasant first winter experience.
Perth’s nice weather means you can enjoy outdoor activities all year. You can bike along the coast, kayak on the Swan River, or relax in one of the many parks. It’s a great way to stay active and close to nature, just like the weekend beach trips many Filipinos enjoy back home. The sunshine and open spaces also help boost your mood and ease homesickness—especially when shared with family or fellow kababayans.
More manageable traffic and congestion
One of the nice perks of living in Perth is the lighter traffic compared to big Australian cities like Sydney or Melbourne. For Filipinos used to Metro Manila’s heavy traffic—where short trips can take hours—Perth feels like a big relief.
Roads are wider, traffic flows better, and drivers follow the rules more. Getting to work or school is usually quicker and less stressful, giving families more time together instead of being stuck in traffic.
Public transport in Perth, though not as extensive as in bigger cities, is less crowded and more comfortable. Trains, buses, and ferries are usually on time, clean, and safe, with fewer passengers even during rush hour.
Unlike the MRT or LRT in the Philippines, where long lines and crowded trains are common, public transport in Perth is much smoother and more relaxed. This makes getting around easier, especially for new migrants.
With less time spent in traffic, Perth’s lifestyle encourages a healthier work-life balance—something many Filipinos hope for when they move abroad.
Cultural and recreational opportunities
While Perth is more laid-back than Sydney or Melbourne, it still has a lively arts and cultural scene. The city boasts galleries, museums, and festivals like the Art Gallery of Western Australia, WA Museum Boola Bardip, and the Perth Festival. These events celebrate both Australian and multicultural cultures, making Filipino migrants feel included.
Just like local fiestas and street parades in the Philippines, Perth offers food markets, art exhibitions, and live performances that connect you to the community.
Food is an important part of Filipino life, and Perth has plenty to offer. The city’s food scene includes Aussie favourites and international cuisines like Thai, Vietnamese, Italian, and even Filipino restaurants and food stalls. You can find lechon, pancit, and halo-halo at local markets or community events. Whether you’re craving something familiar or looking to try new flavours, Perth’s diverse food options have something for everyone.
Perth’s music and entertainment scene is growing, offering everything from intimate bars and jazz lounges to big concert halls with international acts.
Just like Filipinos love live bands and karaoke, Perth has plenty of spots to enjoy music and relax after a busy week. You might even catch Filipino artists performing at local events, giving you a taste of home while adjusting to your new life.
In summary, Perth offers a welcoming and fulfilling lifestyle for Filipino migrants starting a new life in Australia. With its beautiful natural landscapes, outdoor-friendly weather, high quality of life, job opportunities, and cultural diversity, the city strikes a perfect balance of familiarity and new experiences.
Whether you’re looking for better career options, a safer place for your family, or a more relaxed pace of life, Perth has it all. While moving to a new country can be challenging, the strong Filipino community and Perth’s great quality of life make the transition easier and more rewarding.