Australian cities highly rated for quality of living

Six Australian cities have secured a spot in the world's top 50 in the latest  Worldwide Quality of Living Survey from Mercer, confirming Australia's repuation as one of the leading destinations for migrants when it comes to quality of life.

The 2011 analysis of 221 cities by Mercer Human Resource Consulting is based on an evaluation of 39 quality of living criteria. This includes political, social, economic and environmental factors, personal safety and health, education, transport and other public services.

Sydney was the highest ranked Australian city, claiming 11th place, with Victoria's capital of Melbourne ranking 18th and Western Australia's capital of Perth taking the 21st spot. Australia's national capital, Canberra, took out 26th position, while South Australia's capital of Adelaide ranked 26th, followed by Queensland's Brisbane at 37

Australian cities make top 10 for global livability

The Economist has chosen Victoria's capital of Melbourne as the world's mtop 10ost livable city following a global livability survey of 140 cities in August 2011.

The survey, which is conducted twice a year, included the Australian cities of Sydney, Perth and Adelaide in the top 10 as well.

"Australia, with a low population density and relatively low crime rates, continues to supply some of the world's most livable cities," said survey editor Jon Copestake. 

"Despite the rising cost of living, driven by the strong Australian dollar, these cities offer a range of factors to make them highly attractive."

Survey criteria included everything from political and social stability to access to quality health care and cultural events.

Sydney rated 11th best city in the world

Sydney is the state capital of New South Wales and home to about 60% of the state’s 6.9 million residents. It's also Australia's most populous city. The city is well known for its breathtaking beaches and coastline and famous landmarks including the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. Sydney also has many lovely parks, including Hyde Park and the Royal Botanic Gardens.

Financial services, IT and tourism are the city's driving eoconomic forces, and many of Australia’s main companies have their headquarters in Sydney.

Melbourne the world's most livable city

Victoria's capital of Melbourne has long been a favourite destination for migrants and has many exciting business opportunities for skiled migrants. More than 300,000 thriving small businesses operate in the state of Victoria, and nearly a third of small business operators were born overseas.

Melbourne is Australia’s cultural heart, with a feast of events and exhibitions, and hundreds of bars, cafés, restaurants and boutiques. The city is famous for its major sporting events, including the Australian Open tennis tournament and the Melbourne Cup Carnival.

Find out more about Australia’s states

A quick guide to Australia's states

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