Western Australia

Western Australia (WA) is easily Australia’s largest state covering an area of around 2,529,875 km². If it were a separate country all on its own, and some people around these parts think it is, it would be the 10th largest country in the world, behind Argentina and Kazakhstan. The UK would fit into WA just over 10 times and it is bigger than Texas, California, Montana, New Mexico, Arizona and Nevada all added together.

It has a population of around 2.52 million people. It is known as “The Real Thing” and the people who live there are known as “Sand Gropers”.

Western Australia State Location MapFavourite attractions over in WA include Rottnest Island, a day trip from Perth and Shark Bay Marine Park, part of the famous Shark Bay world heritage region.

Famous Australians who originated from the state include the late Heath Ledger, comedian Tim Minchin and Australian Vogel Prize winning writer Tim Winton.

Places in Western Australia

The capital city of Western Australia is Perth, but there are plenty other major towns, cities and localities to choose from within the state.

Here is a list of towns with a population in excess of 10,000 people.

Populations of places change on a daily basis. When I compiled this list in 2011, I got my population figures from various sources and some of them are from the census of 2006. I have decided not to try to constantly update these population numbers, so if you are interested in a certain city or town, then you may want to search online for updated information about the population.

That way you can see if the population is growing, unchanged or shrinking.

  • Mandurah – about 68,000
  • Rockingham – just over 67,000
  • Bunbury – almost 55,000
  • Kalgoorlie-Boulder – just over 28,000
  • Geraldton – about 27,000
  • Albany     – just over 25,000
  • Kwinana – roughly 20,000
  • Busselton – about 15,000
  • Ellenbrook – nearly 12,000
  • Karratha about 11,000
  • Port Hedland – around 11,000
  • Broome – about 11,000
  • Esperance – nearly 10,000, so worth a mention

There are also many towns and locations with a population of under 10,000 people. If you live in any town in WA, why not tell us about it in the comments below…

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{ 116 comments… add one }
  • Sebastian January 24, 2018, 2:16 pm |

    I also forgot to mention Tom Price has a population of 5000 people so it’s fairly peaceful and quiet here compared to the cities down south.

    • BobinOz January 24, 2018, 8:45 pm |

      I just googled it on the map, I’ll bet its quiet 🙂

  • Sebastian January 24, 2018, 2:12 pm |

    Hello Bob, I live in Tom Price located in the Pilbara region and have lived in the Pilbara region for 12 years and love it! I’m 14 though so basically I’ve had my whole life in the Pilbara. Western Australia is a great state and i would recommend anyone willing to move to Australia, make sure you visit WA!!

    • BobinOz January 24, 2018, 8:44 pm |

      Well I have visited WA once, but I only did Perth and Margaret River. I’d love to travel the north of WA though, and I think one day I will on a road trip. Sounds like you’re having fun in Tom Price, and I hope you continue to love it there.

      Thanks for letting us know about your town.

  • Joseph July 21, 2017, 8:27 pm |

    my name is Joseph and I’m from Nigeria
    I have been dreaming in my entire life about living in Australia. I really need your help and assistance, I will do whatever you ask of me, just to come over there, I love Australia with passion

    • BobinOz July 24, 2017, 6:54 pm |

      One small flaw in your plan Joseph, I don’t hand out the visas, the Australian Government do that. I’m afraid you will have to apply through them, for help with that, see my page about Visas.

  • paschal October 17, 2016, 2:40 am |

    hello,
    I am from Nigeria but starting from my early age I have been dreaming of coming to Australia or keeping my family there but I can’t tell why and now that I have grown up Australia is still coming on my mind as a peaceful place to reside, can someone else tell me more about life there especially a programmers and skill labourers

    • BobinOz October 17, 2016, 6:42 pm |

      Yes, me. I have about 1300 or more pages on this website all about life here, so please do have a good look around. Good luck, Bob

  • vamsi December 22, 2015, 10:52 pm |

    This is vamsi from india I want to study MS mechanical in Australia which place would be the best for education,good part time jobs and best jobs for mechanical students after post study,with good climatic conditions. So please suggest me the best place.

    • Navjot October 16, 2016, 12:41 am |

      Hi ,i have done bachelor og nursing from india but,now living in western australia ,perth ,i am doing master of public health in uwa but i find after two years of course didnot not get PR si ,what can i do to transfer my indian registration into RN and its easy to get PR .plz clear my doubts TIA

      • BobinOz October 17, 2016, 6:09 pm |

        I don’t know how the process works exactly, but you may find the links on my page about Nurses, doctors and dentists in Australia useful. If you are still stuck, you will probably need to speak to a recruitment expert in the nursing field or maybe a MARA registered migration agent.

        Good luck, Bob

  • Julius October 17, 2015, 9:39 pm |

    Hi Bob,

    Great site, very helpful especially for tourists.

    I have a question, and I don’t know if this exists in Australia, particularly in Perth. Is there a place that a tourist should avoid? Like dangerous and unsafe place. My wife and I planning to visit the city this year, and we’d like to know more about the place.

    Appreciate any advise and comments regarding my question.

    Thank you very much and keep up the good work.

    Regards,

    Julius

    • BobinOz October 19, 2015, 4:59 pm |

      Hi Julius

      Australia generally speaking is an extremely safe country, and that goes for Perth as well. I’m not from Perth but I have been over there recently and had a good look around, I can’t think of anywhere specifically that anyone would need to avoid.

      Western Australia itself is a massive state, you wouldn’t want to get lost in the outback, that could well be dangerous simply because you could run out of food and water. But if you’re staying close the city’s or major towns, no problem at all.

      But as I say, I don’t live that way, so maybe somebody who does may come in here and answer you. Anybody?

      • Wayne October 22, 2017, 12:23 am |

        i live in perth its safe but not save in anapsalut way thare is crimes and thare ids the rowdy part ie northbridge via nightclubs and it’s fine for doing tures of historical value but if you planing on living in perth be expected to have a huge wallet because prices in perth will make your eyes water
        https://www.expatistan.com/cost-of-living/perth-australia price updated as of october 2017

    • Tom November 3, 2015, 7:18 pm |

      I live in perth and i can’t think of many places to aviod, Their are a few suburbs you may want to steer claer of (e.g. Belmont, Kwinana & Maddington) but other then that i can’t see why you shouldn’t try to experience as much of WA as possible. Maybe visit the Busselton area (Down South) and try to have fun.

      Best wishes

    • Lucy September 18, 2016, 10:34 pm |

      I am from Perth so Perth is a great travel spot not to busy but still quite a bit to see and do
      places not to go to is probably don’t go wondering off in the bush not that there’s a lot around but if you do go to a farm or far in theres probably going to be some bush the bush isn’t that bad but you should definitely know where your going and what there – bugs like ticks or lizards etc
      Perth is a great place to visit and hope you have safe travels and enjoy Perth while your there

      • shawn shallen August 24, 2017, 11:45 pm |

        hello thats pretty much good i love that place

  • Country gal October 14, 2015, 9:22 pm |

    I think that you should add Esperance (a town down south on the coast) it has a population of approx 13,000 people, it has some of the best beaches in the world.

    • BobinOz October 14, 2015, 11:32 pm |

      Well, not wishing to split hairs, but the Shire of Esperance has 13,000 people, but the town of Esperance has only 9919. So very close but didn’t quite qualify under my strict criteria 🙂

      You are right though, it should be on here really, it is, I know, a very popular destination. I’m going to break the rules for you Country gal and add it right now.

      Cheers, Bob

  • aussiebushgirl July 25, 2015, 2:52 pm |

    Hi Bob. I think you need to include UTAH into that equation, due to its location in the four-corner states! Cheers, heather 😀

    • BobinOz July 26, 2015, 9:29 pm |

      You’ve lost me with this one aussiebushgirl, there is no Utah in WA. And the four corner states is a US thing, I think maybe you need to explain this joke to me 🙂

  • tobias brow May 1, 2015, 12:24 pm |

    a great place to live is yelbini.

  • cameron millo May 1, 2015, 11:42 am |

    what type of solar panel is the best to use in Australia

  • Jonaid April 30, 2015, 5:54 am |

    Hello Everyone…
    I am from pakistan, soon i will coming to perth as a student so anyone there would help me in providing info about work as a student, living cost or about other expenses that will help me in future and i will prepare according to that scenario

    • BobinOz April 30, 2015, 6:22 pm |

      Might be worth checking out my page called Getting a Job or a Sponsorship if you want to research work and my page called The Cost of Living in Australia of Everything to look into the cost of living. Good luck, Bob

    • me May 1, 2015, 11:38 am |

      hi joniad. perth is actually really quite expensive

      • Jonaid May 2, 2015, 8:28 am |

        so can intl student do easily survive through part time jobs during studies…?
        There any sponsorship available they would help international students by providing scholarship or commonwealth ?
        In what perspective living cost in Perth would expensive, and what is the lowest cost for student expenditure per month?
        thankx

  • Woj April 25, 2015, 8:33 pm |

    Hi!!

    BOB, the temperature stats I got from Wikipedia:

    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perth

    and also from your website:

    https://www.bobinoz.com/living-in-australia/perth/

    where from what I understood, the temperatures in Perth are on a really hot day 36 degrees, but the average daytime temp in summer is 29 (so I figured, maybe maks 32-33degrees which would be ok)..

    ME, thanks for the info 🙂 I have never been to Perth, and have no idea as to what I can expect. I have read though on various sites, that its a great place live in with a family. A lot of sites say that Perth is quiet after 9-10pm, its a city that goes to sleep, and tyhat its really safe. Personally if thats the case, than that suits us! 🙂 We dont need a party or club paradise, we want a nice place where it is safe and where we can just enjoy our family life. besides, Im 40, we have two great kids and I personally prefer a good barbie and beer with friends than a night out clubbing. Been there, done that, next chapter please.. 🙂

    Bob, u wrote that it can hit 40 in perth. Is that an often thing, or rather rare event? Im still only considering two places – sunshine coast and Perth. I know that most people would go with the sunshine coast (as apparantly property is pretty cheap there, looking thru gumtree.com.au I got the impression that property in perth is more expensive?. How can that be?), ut theres something aout Perth that really interests me..

    • BobinOz April 27, 2015, 4:01 pm |

      There won’t be too much difference in the temperatures between the Sunshine Coast and Perth, average summer temperatures will be in the low 30s, but both places will get those extraordinarily hot days where it does go above 40° C.

      I’m not sure how rare or not those high temperatures are in Perth, but here in Brisbane I would say it does usually happen reasonably regularly, maybe 10 to 20 times a year we would go 37° or higher.

      The only real difference between the two places is that the Sunshine Coast is more humid and Perth is a drier kind of heat.

      Perth houses became expensive during the mining boom which is now pretty much over. The feeling is that house price rises are over as well, and that property may well stagnate from here, but of course that’s just guesswork.

      • Vardan October 14, 2015, 10:20 pm |

        I moved to Perth last August. Check real estate.com.au about the housing. January and February were quite hot, maybe 10 or more times hitting 40. Can’t give much info as mainly was at work, but was really hot driving 25 km at 9 am even.

  • me April 24, 2015, 1:31 pm |

    i live in burracopin,which is a great place to start a family and there is a real sense of community. we have our own team, the mighty burracopin cats, who finished with the prestigious wooden spoon award last season and are looking to go back to back. what are your thoughts on our great shire?.

    yours sincerely,
    me

    • BobinOz April 27, 2015, 2:15 pm |

      Hi me

      Well it probably won’t surprise you to much to hear that I’ve never been to Burracopin. It’s a shame you didn’t tell me about this a couple of weeks ago, I’ve just been to Perth.

      I would have loved to have driven the three hours or so east to watch the Burracopin Cats play and check out your community. Nevermind, next time 🙂

      Cheers, Bob

  • Woj April 22, 2015, 6:13 am |

    Hi Bob

    I’ve written a couple of times in the past, as Ive been intensively persuading my wife to make the move to Oz! Shes quite hesitatnt, as we have a pretty good life here. We have our own cosey place, no mortgages, but I feel that Oz will be a great opportunity for our kids. It can supply them with a future (In Poland that is in doubt at the moment, but lets not get political..). Anyway, patience paid off, we’re flying donw one way next September! 🙂 To make things simple, I have an australian passport, automatically my kids have residence as well, and my wife, as she is married to an aussie, will have no problem with residence. So the question now is only – where?

    Theres only two places Im taking into mind. Either Sunshine Coast or Perth. I know the sunshine very little, and Perth not at all (have lived in Sydney from 1980-1992, but since then have been here in Poland). Dont want to go back to Sydney, to much ustle and bustle.

    We have two small kids. When we make the move next yr, our daughter will be 6, and our son – 3. So the perfect age for them to start school.

    From the two (Sunshine or Perth) is one of them better in the “family environment” chapter? Im far from seeking parties and a night life. With a happy family on board, we want nothing more than a nice atmosphere, and nice summers and mild winters. Not keen on scorching summers, but I googled that in Perth average temps in summer dont hit much above 32degrees? thats great. Anything under 34 is fine, not a pain in the butt on an everyday basis 🙂

    What about safety wise? school wise? Laid back wise? Any of the two better? Also, last but not least, beaches 🙂 I read that gold coast/sunshine coast has the jellyfish problem? and Perth has beaches that u can use all year round? Is that true?

    Sorry for the questions galore, but I have no idea as to what life in these two places looks like, and am hoping that you or maybe somebody who is living there, can give me an eyeopener. Like I said, safety, prces of realestate, and the cosey lifestyle is what I am looking for.

    I work as a tennis coach, so I hope to find work in either of these two places.

    Thanks up front!

    • BobinOz April 22, 2015, 6:26 pm |

      This is a really tough one, the problem I have is that I don’t live in either of these places, although I have visited both. Visiting isn’t the same as living, so I can’t possibly know what is really like to live in these places. If I were you, I’d visit my page on each of these places and have a good read through the comments as they are often made by people who really do live there.

      For what it’s worth, the Sunshine Coast is very laid-back and safe, but has a bit of a reputation as a place people go to when they retire. There’s not much work to be found up there, so I’m told, but it is only an hour and a half to Brisbane. Brisbane does have a first-class tennis coaching facility, that may interest you, but I wouldn’t suggest a daily commute, it would drive you mad.

      I’m not aware of any unusual jellyfish problem there, but jellyfish are around, in Perth too.

      I’m also told Perth is a great place to bring up kids, and it’s also a very safe place as well. Not sure where you got the maximum 32° C in summer from, it can sometimes go above 40° on a very hot summer’s day. When I left Perth yesterday, I’ve just got back from 10 days holiday, it was 28° C and we are well into autumn.

      I think there are pros and cons to both places, but they are both very livable. Maybe you should decide based on real estate prices and the availability of work for you.

      Hope that helps a bit, but do feel free to ask more questions in the comments on my pages for each area. Hopefully somebody reading this who knows Perth well can help you out better than I can.

      Cheers, Bob

    • Cat September 20, 2015, 10:53 pm |

      Hey!
      As a native Perth-ite who moved to the Sunshine Coast a few years ago, I can probably help!

      Cost: Sunny Coast is much cheaper in terms of cost of living than Perth. I suspect generally salaries are lower, however.
      Weather: Perth can be very hot and dry from December through to March. Expect to have runs of days all in excess of 40 degrees; with the average being mid-30s. Most of Perth’s rainfall happens from July through to November. Winters can be cool – usually wake up to 1-2 degrees in June and July with maximums of 20. Perth is built to handle hot weather so you do feel the cold.
      Sunny Coast is milder than Perth in both summer and winter however there is a humidity factor AND the ocean is a lot warmer in the summer (not refreshing!). I reckon you need airconditioning more on the sunny coast than in Perth…but ultimately they both can have some really hot days.
      “Family environment” – both tick those boxes. Perth has a bit more variety in terms of activities because it’s bigger. It also has bigger nightlife districts and thus more potential for youths being hooligoons. This is very easy to avoid – if you want to live out in the quiet burbs you would never know about it. Sunshine Coast doesn’t get the music/theatre/shows/major sporting events that a major city does, but Brisbane is a bit over an hour’s drive away to satisfy those things. I think in terms of schools Perth would win over Sunshine Coast – but again; Brisbane has probably equivalent schools to Perth. Primary schools are probably not an issue. The primary school I went to in Perth had lots of playing fields and activities and this seems similar to the schools here on the coast.

      Beaches – both have beautiful beaches. Perth beaches are actually refreshing to swim in in summer because the water’s cooler. Perth beaches have less jellyfish than Sunshine Coast. Sunshine Coast beaches are usually easier to access because living walking distance from one of them is way more affordable than in Perth. Both places you can swim all day, every day if you want to. Most beaches have lifeguards patrolling. Some people do swim every morning without fail. You might need a wetsuit in Perth in winter; you could probably brave the water without one on the Sunshine Coast.

      Driving – Perth has some public transport infrastructure. I spent all my student life on buses. My friends in Perth commute to work on public transport. Sunshine Coast does have buses – they are not frequent enough or many enough to really call them a network. You would be lost without a car on the Sunshine Coast I think; in Perth it could be do-able if you picked your house right.

      Safety: I think Sunshine Coast is probably marginally safer than Perth given the smaller population. Perth has innercity areas that you can expect cars to be broken into and drunks picking fights etc. Both are actually pretty safe though – no concerns about my safety any time. I used to ride my bike/walk to school alone in Perth. Our family home was burgled once in 20 years. I’ve had no personal crime here on the Coast but generally I think Australia is pretty safe in the scheme of things.

      Laid back – Sunshine Coast is laid back everywhere. Perth is pretty laid back for a city but it has more variety in community.

      Traffic – traffic is a much bigger issue in Perth than the Sunshine Coast. But driving is pretty much a requirement on the coast; in Perth biking and public transport is an option.

      Community – I think both sides have a good community. Perth does have a Polish community; not sure about the Sunshine Coast. Perth being a bigger city certainly has more variety so you are more likely to find somewhere to fit.

      Conclusion: I think Perth is the more interesting option of the two to live; I am not planning on staying on the Coast for too much longer and would like to get home at some stage. Both are great though; both are safe, both are family friendly, both can get hot. Jobs are easier to get in Perth (I here lots of people struggle to find work on the Coast) but this is industry dependent I suppose. There is a significant difference in cost of living – we thought the Coast was so cheap when we moved over here. It is a bit of a hike to travel to the rest of Australia from Perth and much easier from Queensland, but that isn’t much of an issue for me. Good luck!

      • BobinOz September 21, 2015, 1:57 pm |

        Great roundup Cat, thank you 🙂

  • rusty November 3, 2014, 5:01 pm |

    HI I’m thinking about moving to Perth somewhere I was just wondering is there much work available for a ceiling fixer with 18 yrs experience and I also have 6yrs experience as as a renderer or would my best bet be to try and get into the mines as I have 3 yrs experience in that field any help would be much appreciated.

    • BobinOz November 3, 2014, 9:58 pm |

      I’m not sure Rusty, being as I’m in Brisbane, but if you don’t get an answer here you might be better off asking this same question on my page about Perth, hopefully someone will be able to help you out.

      Cheers, Bob

  • Vardan May 6, 2014, 7:03 pm |

    Hi there. I am moving to Perth, arriving july 23rd. My question is mainly addressed to men. Could you recommend a good website where i can buy a second hand car ? i plan to spend no more then 3000 AUD . I have checked some options but i don’t know the market in perth . which brand or car model is really very popular and spare parts want cost me lot ? do you think Mitsubishi lancer (1999-2000) is a good option ? what about the local cars like Holden Vectra. Thanks

    • BobinOz May 7, 2014, 1:36 pm |

      See my page The Cost of Living in Australia of Everything, there are some links on their to places where you can buy second hand stuff including cars.

      Mitsubishi and Holden are very popular here, so probably a good option at that price range. Good luck, Bob

  • Pete January 12, 2014, 3:57 pm |

    Melbourne is Kentucky

  • Pete January 12, 2014, 3:55 pm |

    Australia is like a big red state.
    Sydney is like Houston, Perth is like Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

  • james blair January 6, 2014, 9:03 pm |

    Hey bobinoz I love the website by the way helped me and my girlfriend a lot just got a little question about where the best place to be moving with my welding background I know that Australia are in Dire need for my sector just don’t know where about heard it was more Perth way can you confirm that or do you not know cheers and keep up the good work

    JamesInTheWetAndWindyUK(does not really go as good as yours haha)

    • BobinOz January 7, 2014, 4:29 pm |

      It possibly is Perth, there’s a lot of work going on over that way. If you want to check though, take a look at my page about Getting a Job or a Sponsorship and use the links to the three main employment agencies to search for jobs in your line of business.

      Wherever there are the most opportunities, that’s probably where you should head.

      Great to hear that you and your girlfriend love my website, cheers, Bob

  • Babita December 23, 2013, 2:45 pm |

    Hi bob I am studying here in Perth city college.i live in balga 6061 so I just want to know is Perth regional for study ? Do I get 5 points or not and also how many years I have to study here if it’s regional . Can I apply for temporary residence once I finish advance diploma?i used to live in Sydney I lived there for 5 years n I moved here its been only three months .and one more question I got dependent he has finished his bachelor from Holmes institute so do I get 5 more points from that or not . Please let me know thank you

    • BobinOz December 28, 2013, 12:00 am |

      I can’t help with those kinds of questions, I’m not a MARA agent. If you want professional assistance, check out my Visa Assessment Service.

  • Coco November 16, 2013, 12:23 pm |

    What suburbs at best to live near airport but also not to hard to get to the city. My partner will be doing FIFO and I will be in the city. Want to feel safe on my own for 2 weeks. Cheers

    • Layla Turner November 18, 2013, 9:37 am |

      Hi Coco
      Belmont is a great suburb to live in – it’s close to both airports and only 1 bus ride to the city. And its relatively cheap to rent here (in Perth standards compared to some suburbs).
      I lived there and lots of FIFO’s live here because it’s cheaper and close to the airport.

  • Lucy Craven October 24, 2013, 7:05 pm |

    hey bob, im stuck on filling out my visa application for subclass 461.
    i can found how much it exactly cost.. i keep finding different numbers and im not sure which one to put down.

    im living in england at the moment..
    please could you help me 🙂

    thanks bob 🙂

    • BobinOz October 25, 2013, 5:37 pm |

      Sorry, no, I can’t help with this Lucy, I’ve never completed one of those forms in my life. Why not just pick out the cheapest price and send them that 🙂

      Good luck, Bob

  • ZHAR October 13, 2013, 4:38 am |

    Hiee bob, this is ZHAR,

    Bob I need your advise please. I am intending migrant and have applied for 190 subclass PR VISA for western australia. Bob can u advise if my baby is born in western australia, would the new born be an Australian Citizen immediately at birth, since we would be moving to perth on PR visa type.

    Does Australia have the policy of citizenship at birth for people who are moving on PR VISA type as mine i.e. subclass 190.

    In case they dont allow, then the new born wud have to apply for PR VISA from my current hometown

    Would await your reply please. Thanks bob for your guidance

    • Timo October 14, 2013, 5:10 pm |

      Every new born of a PERMANENT Resident of Australia, born on Australian soil, automatically is granted Australian Citizenship by birth.

      Please consider that both requirements (PR and born in Australia) have to be fulfilled for this rule to apply.

  • ZHAR September 21, 2013, 5:47 am |

    Hie again, this is ZHAR,

    I am intending migrant expected to migrate to PERTH. I would be very thankful if someone could please help me out with accommodation options that are NOT pricy. To be honest, as I would not be having any job when I move to PERTH and with financial limitations, I can afford any accommodation which is in the range of 130 to 150 AUD per week.

    I do understand that it could take may be 3 to 4 months to get the relevant HR Job, but till then can any one please suggest which kind of jobs are more readily available, atleast to keep the ball rolling i.e a job which could support my accommodation and basic cost of living

    Can anyone please write back with suggestions on suburbs which have HR JOBS and are NOT TOO PRICY to live also, but have reasonably good primary schools and household shopping marts.

    And Yes, it would be a big big help please if any one can advise regarding the pros and cons of shared accommodation, is it safe to go for as I am completely new to PERTH, infact never had a chance to come down to Aussie

    Any suggestions, help, advise wud be much appreciated please. Thanks and replies awaited

  • ZHAR September 21, 2013, 5:40 am |

    Hiee there, this is ZHAR from Karachi – Pakistan

    I have LODGED an application for AUSTRALIAN PR VISA. My SUB CLASS is WESTERN AUSTRALIA – STATE NOMINATED SUBCLASS 190.

    I have received a STATE SPONSORSHIP APPROVAL FOR THE SKILLED – NOMINATED (SUBCLASS 190) VISA , which mentions that Ï would have to remain living and working in Western Australia for a period of two years after obtaining visa.

    Can anyone who has migrated to PERTH with this VISA SUB CLASS 190, please advise, if I have to work in my NOMINATED OCCUPATION ONLY OR is it ok to work in any field that I get a job in for 02 years or more.

    My nominated occupation is HR ADVISER

    It has now been 02 months that I have lodged the application. So far haven’t received any response. I just wanted to know what are the chances of getting a PR VISA as I have received WESTERN AUSTRALIA STATE SPONSORSHIP Letter.

    Secondly, as an HR Professional here in Karachi Pakistan and working for a multinational Pharmaceutical Company, as MANAGER HR – SERVICES, although have NO direct reports, would be thankful if I could get an insight into the HR Job market of PERTH and usually how long does it take for HR Professionals coming from this part of the world to get an HR Job.

    Any comments or advice from members, especially those who have moved to PERTH as migrants would be appreciated. Thanks

    • Timo September 25, 2013, 8:00 pm |

      I’m a 190 guy as well.
      After my invitation it took 10 weeks till the grant of the Visa. (everything between 2-3 months is realistic as long as you provide the required documentation quickly; i.e. before case officer allocation)

      You can work in any occupation; full time, part time. You’re free to do whatever you want.

      with 150 pw it will be tough to find a decently located flatshare. If you go very far out (15-20 km away from CBD) you might be able to find sth, but keep in mind that usually, bills (power, heating,…) come on top, so a more realistic budget would be 180- 200

      If flatshare is OK to you, nobody can tell, completely up to you. But in general terms, people there are reasonably civilized (as you would expect in any developed Western country).

      I would recommend to bring savings with you to cover at least the first six months, with up to 2000 $/month so as an absolute minimum 10.000-12.000 $.

  • Frankie September 9, 2013, 3:11 am |

    Hello!

    I’m coming to Perth in november 2013 😀
    Any tips on how to find a nice room in a shared house with other young people (25-35 years)?
    And tips on area’s?

    I have read a lot of comments by others, but it is still hard to pick…

    My budget is kinda limited, and since I will be new it is fun to live with other young people. Preferable close to a park or beach, and a place with good connected public transport since I don’t have a car…

    Would be awesome to get some tips 🙂

    • BobinOz September 9, 2013, 11:39 pm |

      I’ll have to leave that one for those who live over that way, living in Brisbane I don’t know Perth at all. Good luck!

      • Frankie September 23, 2013, 9:14 pm |

        thanks Bob,

        Your site is amazing!!! so useful and fun 🙂

        • BobinOz September 24, 2013, 6:19 pm |

          Thanks Frankie 🙂

    • Timo September 18, 2013, 10:16 pm |

      Hi Frankie

      I got my PR Visa two days ago and will be moving to Perth early 2014. How are your plans developing, have you already found some info about the housing situation. Basically, I would be looking for the same, as I am falling into the same age range and also would not want to spend a fortune on housing (at least not at the beginning until I have a solid income). And I want to live together with a couple of easy going, socializing guys (just as me :D)
      If you waited a little with the move we could even look together 🙂
      No but seriously if you found out something, why don’t you share it. As far as I have heard, the Subiaco area should be pretty much the place to be as young guys. Close to center and (somewhat) to the beach, and loads of young people living there (that’s at least my impression).

      Keep in touch.

      Timo

      • Frankie September 23, 2013, 9:13 pm |

        Hi Timo!

        Still looking into areas, funny just came across Subiaco and here you mention it too 🙂 must be a sign haha!
        It’s so hard to find out where I will fit best. I want to be close to the city so not to suburb-ish, but at the same time I wanna be able to “escape” the city when I want to = go to the beach, parc,…

        a good website I found is gumtree.au

        When are you exactly coming to Perth?
        I can give you more tips once I’m there… and if I hear anything I can always let you know!

        And why are you moving to Perth?
        This is always fun to know 🙂

        Anyways, kinda hard to pick a place still since I don’t know where I will be working yet…

        so any tips always welcome 🙂

        • Timo September 25, 2013, 7:51 pm |

          My scheduled EDA is beginning of April. I choose that date because it optimises my financial well being (getting still a couple of outstanding salaries +bonuses) and because it should be easier to find a job when going after the christmas break. maybe I come a little earlier, if my employer “forces” me to resign before.

          The reason why I’m going, is that I definitely wanted to abroad after a couple of years (and with abroad I mean outside of Europe). Actually I wanted to do it on a trasfer basis within my current company, but as they are not able to get me a job, I’m quitting and doing it on my own.

          To Australia, I go for two reasons

          1) It is just an amazing country (as far as lifestyle, way of living, nature,… is concerned) and it has a decent job market (although slowing down a little bit at the moment).

          2) It is an immigration country and therefore I got my PR there quite easily. However as it is 190 I need to stay in WA for the first 2 years (but I guess Perth is not so bad afterall)

          Regarding your accomodation hussle: Well first I will pick a place where I WANT to life (as I will not have a job presumably). As soon as I get employed I will decide whether or not I move (cos I want to live in a cool neighborhood, but commuting more tha 45 mins door to door is not an option)

          Just as a matter of interest: Will you have a job arranged before you arrive and if not, what is your budget (savings) that you take with you?

          I know gumtree of course, pretty good for shared accomodation (which is what I’ m going for at least at the beginning).
          So maybe we see each other around in Perth (I will activate my Visa January 3-6).

          Timo

          • Layla Turner October 9, 2013, 9:05 am |

            Subiaco is a very expensive suburb to live (because it’s so nice) and not usually much cheap/shared accommodation here. Gumtree.com.au is great for share houses/cheap shared accommodation but for rentals, realestate.com.au is a good website.
            suburb wise – Subiaco and Leederville are expensive – lot’s of boutique shops, trendy cafes and restaurants.
            You may prefer to try suburbs such as Claremont, Nedlands or Osbourne Park for fairly young population, on the train line, close-ish to the city and close to the beaches. Or try Fremantle (Freo), small city not in Perth, slightly south but has the best of everything. 🙂

            • Frankie October 10, 2013, 3:58 am |

              Hello Layla,

              Thanks so much for the info!
              I was looking at Subiaco and surroundings like Leederville and Nedlands, good to have confirmation these are great locations (although some indeed a bit more expensive).

              Can I ask another question perhaps?
              I have responded // sent a mail to more than 20 ads on gumtree (even posted 3 times an add myself), but I have received no reaction at all;
              so I was wondering: are they actually receiving it? (so is the gumtree website free?).

              Perhaps it will be easier to find a place once I’m there I guess?
              Hopefully this can happen quick, within a week or 2 🙂

              Thanks so much already to you all with responses, very appreciated 😀

              • Layla Turner October 10, 2013, 6:46 am |

                I’m not sure, Gumtree is definately free, but I don’t know why you wouldn’t get answers off people.
                It is very hard to secure a houseshare or rental in Perth, they go very quickly, a lot of people will be inundated with responses to an ad and may not bother getting back to everyone. I found if I texted the number in the ad rather than emailed, I got more of a response.
                It may depend on what you’re putting in your ad, if you state you are looking for somewhere in Perth but you’re not in Perth yet, most people will overlook your ad, as they would rather go for someone who can move in now.
                Try the suburbs that have universities and TAFE’s in them like Murdoch and Bentley – they will have more houses full of students and young professionals who are used to new migrants coming over to Aus and are probably (in my opinion) more likely to answer.
                And yes, I think it may be easier to look when you get there. Just remember places go quickly, you have to text and be ready to jump in the car and get round there to view quickly before someone else snaps it up.
                Rentals are expensive and hard to secure so house sharing is becoming very popular.

              • Timo October 11, 2013, 6:13 pm |

                I heard the rumor that gumtree messages will not be delivered from outside of OZ, so your experience seems to confirm this. I recommend calling those guys directly.

                • Frankie October 11, 2013, 7:55 pm |

                  ah that would definitely explain it 🙂
                  thanks for all your replies.

    • Timo December 10, 2013, 1:20 am |

      Hi Frankie

      have you arrived meanwhile? how do you like it so far?

      Timo

      • Frankie December 10, 2013, 12:02 pm |

        Hi Timo,

        Yes I have arrived well, and i love it so far!!!

        First I was at Scarborough beach for a few days to accommodate and it was very nice, the beach was so nice and the weather is so good!

        Then I went to Leederville, a suburb, pretty posh and fancy, then to Perth east near to the river, but I ended up in Fremantle where I found a room in shared accomodation on the first day I arrived here!

        Very nice, with 4 other people, and I found it via gumtree.
        It is true, the numbers are all blocked except when you are here in Australia.
        The trick is to be quick though! When you like something, call immediately and try to visit it the same day or the next!

        If I hear something i will let you know!!

        So now it is the harder part: looking for a job. So far no luck but will go jobhunting again today 🙂

        So how are your plans finalising?

        • Timo December 11, 2013, 11:58 pm |

          I will activate my Visa beginning of January; finally moving Beginning of April (I have to resign from my job, but my boss doesn’t know yet 🙂

          What kinda job are you looking for? I just heard that recruitment slows down begiinning of december until mid January due to holidays. Just in case that you don’t find anything right now (that was the reason why I postponed my move to april)

          As I am not in this forum regularly, I let you my email to keep in touch (lusthansa@ymail.com). Maybe we can meet beginning of Jan (I’m in Perth 3-5.01)

          Timo

  • LC August 26, 2013, 2:18 am |

    My hubby got a job offer to work in Perth, and we have 3 children age 10, 12 and 13. Our main concern is their education. The visa will allow us to stay 4 years but hubby will turn 55 years old by then, do we still qualify to apply for PR? If we can’t continue to stay in Perth at that time, how to continue and complete their education?

    • BobinOz August 26, 2013, 11:55 pm |

      I think this is something you will need to talk over with a qualified MARA migration agent, a sponsorship visa can often lead to PR, but it’s not guaranteed. I understand your concerns given your husband’s age, that’s why I think it would be a good idea to talk to someone now about this so that you can make plans for the future.

      Do you have an agent organising your visa for you at this point? If you do, I would go through your concerns with them to see what they think.

      Good luck, Bob

      • LC August 27, 2013, 1:36 pm |

        Thank you Bob for your comments. May I know if the Visa 547 is extendable after 4 years? Would you please refer me to a qualified MARA migration officer? Thank you in advance for your help.

        • BobinOz August 29, 2013, 12:08 am |

          Sorry LC, I don’t know the full terms and conditions of the visa you talk of, although I suspect you may have meant to type 457. Whichever visa you mean though, I couldn’t tell you if it is extendable beyond four years. If you are talking about the 457 though, most people try to apply for a more permanent residential visa at some point, but you would need to talk to a MARA agent about your options if that’s what you wanted to do. Cheers, Bob

  • carly hill June 6, 2013, 5:02 pm |

    Hi Alistair
    Thank you for your reply, My husband is an Agricultural engineer,The job is based in Northam, but will have to travel to other sites.
    Yes I think the climate will take some getting used to,but a whole lot better than our unpredictable lovely English weather !
    And thank you Bob,This site had given us the information we needed plus love the video of the snake in the house,had me giggling.

    Thanks again
    Carly

  • Alistair June 6, 2013, 2:02 pm |

    As they say in Oz, “No Worries.”

  • Alistair June 6, 2013, 10:46 am |

    Hi Carly,

    I live in Western Australia and may be able to assist a little with the answer.

    Northam is a small town, as you probably know and this has benefits and challenges. It depends on your lifestyle and what your husband is working on. Most people who live in WA live in Perth and about 8% fly in and fly out to remote mine sites. Cars are essential in such a vast state.

    If you love being in a small town, which will be very hot in summer and colder than you expected in winter, with plenty of room to swing a cat then Northam may fit your needs.
    When I moved from the UK with my wife, we initially chose Perth but eventually escaped the city to move to a small country town by the ocean (Busselton).

    Sometimes I miss Perth as there is much more work there and there are pockets of culture, but the roads are getting clogged and I don’t like summers that get over 40 degrees!

    I am more of a 32 degrees type of guy!

    Hope this helps

    Alistair McGuinness

    • BobinOz June 6, 2013, 1:51 pm |

      Thanks Alistair, that was a question I couldn’t answer 🙂 Bob

  • carly hill June 6, 2013, 6:57 am |

    Hi Bob
    My husband has been offered a job in Northam wa,we have 3 children 15,11 and 3 years of age and will be moving from the U.K.We would really appreciate an honest opinion about living here.
    Kind regards
    Carly Hill

    • Nicki August 9, 2013, 4:43 pm |

      Hi Carly
      Just wondered how far you are with your move. We are also looking at Moving from UK as have a job offer in Northam too also with 3 children. Not sure whether Northam is best place to live, York or elsewhere .

      nicki

  • Alistair McGuinness May 28, 2013, 12:26 am |

    Hi. To reply to the last post, there are multiple areas in Perth where manufacturing sites exist. Canning Vale is south of the city and has numerous factories. There are also more areas towards the airport and out near Fremantle. During interviews HR managers often use the STAR technique, so do your homework first….good luck

    PS..With regards to country towns, Busselton now has a population of 30,000.

    Cheers

    Alistair

    • BobinOz May 28, 2013, 7:35 pm |

      Thanks Alistair, it wasn’t a question I was able to answer 🙂

  • Rohan May 3, 2013, 8:50 pm |

    Hello,

    First of all, thank you everyone for pouring in all your comments and suggestions, its really helpful.
    Me and my wife will be moving to Perth soon in the mid of July, I am a mechanical engineer and this is my first visit to Australia. Can anyone please let me know which part of Perth are known for their manufacturing industries/ offices and the probable places nearby to these to stay?

    Thank you!!

  • tony April 5, 2013, 10:24 pm |

    hi
    my family and i are thinking about moving to perth
    ,we have two young boys.What are the schools like , I am a joiner to trade how easy is it for work and whats the money like .

    • BobinOz April 6, 2013, 12:48 am |

      Hopefully someone from over that way can help you out with this Tony, I’m more than 3,000 kilometres away 🙂

      Can anyone help with this?

  • Mushahid M November 17, 2012, 3:42 pm |

    Thanks Cassie for the info. Is it possible you could help me with finding accomodation for short stay until I find a good place to settle in in Jan/Feb 2013, as I will be visiting Perth .

    Lemme know any contacts of agents/private lettings etc.

    Cheers
    Mushahid

    • cassie November 19, 2012, 7:27 pm |

      I wish I could help more, but I can’t even find myself a rental! (Mostly because I’m 19 and don’t earn enough…)
      Anyway!
      I spend a few hours each week just looking to see what’s available, and I’ve found real-estate.com.au
      reiwa.com
      gumtree.com.au
      are good places to start looking, and judge how expensive houses are going to be for you, and what you can afford
      Obviously, you can live by yourself, or you can share a house with other people, similar to living in a college, but cheaper.

      It might be handy to open Google Maps while looking so you can see how far away the different suburbs are from university, shops etc.
      Don’t always trust the description! ‘Close to shops/trains/schools’ can still mean a decent distance, especially by public transport 🙂

  • Mushahid M November 6, 2012, 8:33 pm |

    Hi

    I am planning to move to Perth from Dubai . I hope to get into any University- UWA or Notre Dame for my PhD research . My wife is also planning to continue her Bachelors at any Uni. I need some help and info on the Universities and admissions and if living in University Dorm rooms is a better choice than renting apartments.
    This is my first time visit to Australia. I have lived in the UK for 5 years and Dubai for 3 years and hope to get adjusted soon .

    Thanks
    Mushahid M

    • BobinOz November 8, 2012, 10:19 pm |

      I’m afraid I can’t help you with that one, my university days are well behind me. Actually, my university days never existed 🙂

      Hopefully somebody who knows a bit about university life in Western Australia might pop by and help you out with this one. Good luck!

      • cassie November 9, 2012, 1:35 pm |

        http://www.uwa.edu.au/ – university of western australia
        http://www.nd.edu.au/ – notre dame
        http://www.curtin.edu.au/ – curtin university
        http://www.ecu.edu.au/ – edith cowen university
        http://www.murdoch.edu.au/ – murdoch university

        You will need to email the individual admissions offices/student services to find out about their application process and what kind of qualifications you will need.
        I’m assuming since you’re looking for PHD, you’ve already done your undergrad, so it shouldn’t be too hard to get into one… It will also depend on what area you’re looking at, as to which university you should attend as some of them are stronger in certain areas than others.

        Also, if you’re planning on living with your wife, I would say you would be better to rent.
        Staying in a college (at UWA) is approx AUD$300 a week from what I’ve heard (each person) so it’d be cheaper to rent, and you’d have more privacy, more space, more choice in what you eat and when etc. If you were single looking for friends, then sure go for a college, but for your situation I would recommend renting 🙂

        • BobinOz November 9, 2012, 2:36 pm |

          Great info Cassie, thanks 🙂

          • Nepalese Civil Engineer February 6, 2013, 2:49 am |

            dear friends,can anyone tell me that how we can find the cheapest rental in perth or may be in any regional areas of wa

  • pranjal November 6, 2012, 4:26 pm |

    hi there,
    I am chef as a profession for last 11 yrs and currently 34 yrs of age,advised by my friend who lives there to move from auckland nz to perth for better prospects and living.i have wife and 15 month old son.
    Want to know,whether chefs are in demand and well paid in perth.i am not worried about sponsership issue.
    Cheers.

    • BobinOz November 6, 2012, 6:23 pm |

      Yes, I have heard that chefs are in high demand here, but I’ve also heard that some chefs are in more demand than others, but unfortunately I don’t know which. How much they get paid, I don’t know, I suggest you have a search using the links you’ll find on my page about Getting a Job or a Sponsorship to see what’s available for the kind of chef you are. Good luck!

  • micandvic August 18, 2012, 9:50 am |

    Thank you so much, gives me somewhere to start. Very hard trying to work out where to go when I know nothing. Main concern is safety and schools as my partner is away at the mines a large part of the year.

  • micandvic August 11, 2012, 9:04 pm |

    We are moving from Victoria to Perth area later in the year, have a primary aged daughter and struggling to work out where to live. My partner works on the mines so he is gone alot so important to be in a safe area. We have had suggestions Secret Hrbour, Port Kennedy, Rockingham and surrounding areas, would really like to know what you think.

    • BobinOz August 13, 2012, 12:55 am |

      I can’t help you with this one, not been to Perth yet, looking to go soon. Hopefully someone else will pop by and help out here. Anybody?

    • Gekko71 August 17, 2012, 4:03 pm |

      I’ve lived in Perth for 20 years and its a pretty safe city all-round. The only real dangerous places are several entertainment districts at night once the pubs shut IE: Northbridge and Fremantle in particular. DO NOT stay out in these places after 11.00pm – that’s when the wierdos and angry, violent drunks come out. Otherwise these places are very safe and enjoyable to visit (Freo in particular) – the rest is all pretty good.

      In terms of where to live with young kids, it really depends upon your budget, Perth real estate is stupidly expensive.

      I’ve lived near Fremantle for decades and love it. It’s got a vibe slightly reminiscent of St Kilda if that helps. Great beaches round my area and its a suburb that shuns high-rise development and flashy hotels, but welcomes artists, musicians and local resident’s dogs. My kinda place!

      Only live near the Perth CBD if you have cause to go into the CBD a lot – there’s still no night-life, schools or shopping facilities in the heart of the city to speak of – though it is definitely getting better.

      As a general rule of thumb, once you get over 16km from the Perth CBD the suburbs get much cheaper and newer, unless its a seaside (ie: ‘western’) suburb, in which case the prices are stupid.

      One area I really recommend is Success and surrounding suburbs (Yangebup, Bibra Lake, Cockburn Central, Beeliar…). There’s a **massive** amount of infrastructure investment been happening there over the last few years with a lot more to come. Everywhere you look there’s new businesses and offices being built, light industrial buildings springing up, lots of new residential land releases, rapidly-expanding shopping centres (Gateway is a good one – lots of shops but bloody-stupid traffic layout!), good schools, its not too far from the coast or the al-fresco cafes of Freo (Fremantle), close to the major freeway and North/South railway line, close to the soon-to-open Fiona Stanley Hospital, wide range of property prices and locations to choose from, roads being widened, new street lighting going in, Adventure World water park is nearby… etc.

      Go to Goolge Maps and look for the intersection of the Kwinana freeway and Armadale Road / Bibra Drive. Any location that’s within 5 to 8 km of this spot is probably a good buy right now and you’ll be a very handy distance from shops, transport, schools, parks, large retail chain / franchise outlets and other facilities. Choose the WEST side of Kwinana freeway if you can, the closer you are to the ocean in Perth, the better your property retains its value.

      Stay at least 4km away from the Concrete factory that’s situated immediately west of Beeliar off of Stock road if possible – the fumes from the place can be unpleasant and persistent if the wind is coming from the wrong direction.

      One final rule of thumb – IF YOU DON’T HAVE A CAR IN PERTH, YOU’RE STUFFED! DON’T rely on public transport – cause you can’t – and don’t even THINK about trying to get a taxi to ANYTHING in this town right now. Get yourself something that’s economical to run and easy to park & drive in congested traffic – cause we have plenty of that right now thanks to the boom.

      Hope this helps and best of luck with the big move! More sand-gropers are always welcome. :-))

      • BobinOz August 17, 2012, 4:37 pm |

        Thanks Gekko71, what a great and very helpful roundup of Perth this is for micandvic or anyone looking to move there. Thanks for taking the time to do this and for sharing it with us here. Cheers

        Bob

        • sun September 19, 2012, 5:30 pm |

          Hi, my daughter will be studying in UWA and I need to find her a place to live for the next couple of years, buy or rent. Can you give me some idea?

          • BobinOz September 20, 2012, 9:10 pm |

            Sorry, I can’t, hopefully somebody else can help. Anybody know the best place to live when studying in UWA?

            • cassie October 16, 2012, 5:27 pm |

              I am studying at UWA 🙂
              Basically, like mentioned above, public transport is an absolute nuisance.
              You definitely do not want to live more than a fifteen/twenty minute drive from the uni, because you can pretty well always add at least an extra thirty minutes travel time if you’re going public.
              I live in Rockingham, so to get the train and bus takes about 1.5 hours either way, so i drive now.
              Obviously, places in the city are a lot more expensive, so maybe try finding a big share house?
              That’s probably the best thing to do so she doesn’t spend all her time travelling, as this limits study time, work time and social time 🙂

              • Nepalese Civil Engineer February 6, 2013, 2:40 am |

                Hi !recently i got my wa regional sponsored tr visa,is there anyone who can guide me to find a share house, may be the cheapest rooms to share?I need ur desperate help regarding the price and location
                .

              • Kamma October 1, 2013, 11:40 pm |

                Do no one own a bicycle in Australia? They’re fairly cheap, faster than walking (and often public transport), more flexible than a car and easier to park. If you’re fit, ten kilometres isn’t too far for a bike (especially if it isn’t too hilly), and five if you’re not (unless it’s really hilly). Coming from bike country extraordinaire, I might be overestimating how good they’ll work in Perth, but I doubt they’ll be worse than public transport.

                • BobinOz October 2, 2013, 1:57 pm |

                  Yes, of course, thousands and thousands of people own bikes. Biking is very popular here and here in Brisbane, where I live, we have lots and lots of bicycle cycling paths and I am sure they do in the other cities as well.

  • Sam Lipetz April 17, 2012, 11:05 pm |

    I am looking for temporary work in WA, from end of june/july until end august/september, how hard is to secure a job (say in pearling, or agriculture) before actually getting to WA? My worry is I’ll pay all that money to fly there from the UK and be stuck without a job!
    I have tried all the jobsites but they only advertise jobs going right now! Thank you so much if you can give some advice!

    • BobinOz April 18, 2012, 2:39 pm |

      Hi Sam

      That’s not one I can answer, I’ve never tried. Everyone tells me there’s loads of work over that way though, my guess is that if there are plenty of jobs available now, there still will be in a few months.

      That’s all I can say, has anybody had any experience with this? Maybe someone else can help?

  • Leon April 13, 2012, 4:38 pm |

    Bon Scott lived in Fremantle from the age of 10, ACDC were regularly in WA and he certainly thought of himself as an Australian.

    • BobinOz April 15, 2012, 12:54 am |

      Connection confirmed, thanks Leon!

  • Chris June 15, 2011, 6:52 am |

    Think AC/DC came from WA too…

    • BobinOz June 17, 2011, 9:03 pm |

      There is some connection to Western Australia from the singer at some point, but I think they all emigrated to Australia, at least three of the band came from Glasgow in Scotland and moved to Sydney.

      Maybe they went to WA so they could practice in the garage without making too much noise for the rest of Australia?

      • Frank Viola October 7, 2014, 2:02 pm |

        Bon Scott’s ashes were spread out at the Fremantle Cemetary and there is a concrete bench with a plaque on it remembering him. Fremantle is the main port near Perth. Our population is almost 2 million.

        • BobinOz October 7, 2014, 11:43 pm |

          Then it sounds like Fremantle will be his home for a long time to come. By the way, when I stayed in St Kilda there was a record shop right opposite my apartment that also had a bar, turned out it was run by Bon Scott’s son.

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