Life after University in Perth with Eleanor

My name is Eleanor, and I'm originally from Malaysia. Moving to Perth in February 2022 to pursue a degree in Accounting at The University of Western Australia has been one of the best decisions I've ever made. Since then, I’ve been living here and working as an Auditor at a mid-tier firm.

The lifestyle in Malaysia is fast-paced and busy, with less emphasis on work-life balance. In contrast, Perth's work culture places a strong value on this balance, recognising that making time for personal activities outside of work or study is essential for both well-being and performance.

This balanced approach to life is one of the main reasons I love living in Perth. It helps me feel less overwhelmed by my responsibilities and encourages me to take time for myself, whether that’s spending time with friends, enjoying outdoor activities, or simply relaxing. I have found that implementing a good work-life balance in my daily life has improved my time management skills and overall productivity—both at work and in my personal life. 

Living and working in Perth has also given me countless opportunities, both professionally and personally.

The people in Perth are friendly and easy to talk to, making it a great place to form new connections. While it can be intimidating to start a conversation with someone you barely know, I’ve found that locals here are very approachable. There are so many social clubs, activities, and events at universities and throughout Perth where you can meet new people and make lasting friendships. Universities and StudyPerth also organise numerous professional networking events, where representatives from major companies share insights into what it’s like to work for their organisation and within the industry. I’ve attended many of these events and have been able to improve my interview, communication, and networking skills, which were instrumental in helping me secure a job even before I graduated.

I was fortunate to secure a job before graduating by attending networking events, career fairs, resume workshops, and using UWA's Careers platform, Seek, and Indeed for internship opportunities. I believe career fairs are one of the best ways to learn about job openings, assess if a company aligns with your values, and make a great first impression. StudyPerth has hosted many networking events and career fairs to provide the link between industry professionals and students. I have attended lots of these events, one of which was a CPA Future Leaders event where there were a number of CPA members who attended, and it was a great way for me to improve my networking skills and garner further insights into what it is like to work in the accounting industry. The opportunities I’ve had in Perth have been beyond what I expected, and I am grateful for the experiences that have helped me grow both professionally and personally.

Another reason I love living in Perth is the ease with which I can travel and explore the city and beyond. Public transportation is easily accessible, which makes getting around very convenient. I live and work in the city, so taking the bus or walking is the most convenient way for me to travel. When I was studying at UWA, getting to university was a breeze—it was only one bus ride away, taking just 20 minutes. This convenience makes Perth an ideal city for exploring new places, whether you're commuting to work, visiting friends, or enjoying a weekend outing. I also love exploring new cafés and places of interest around the city.

One place I always recommend to newcomers in Perth is the Scarborough Sunset Markets. It’s one of my favourite spots, not just for the food but because the sunsets there are absolutely breathtaking! It’s the perfect spot to hang out with friends, enjoy a variety of cuisines offered by the food trucks, and take in the beautiful views. It’s one of those places where you can truly appreciate the laid-back vibe of Perth. This is just one example of how Perth’s relaxed atmosphere and accessible travel options make it such an enjoyable place to explore.

Moving to Perth was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, and I don’t regret it for a second. 

It’s given me the perfect balance of lifestyle, work opportunities, and the freedom to explore. It has provided me with ample room for personal growth, opened up countless opportunities I’m truly grateful for, and provided invaluable experiences and lessons. If you’re unsure about taking the leap to live abroad, I encourage you to have the courage to take that risk—you might be surprised by what you can achieve and how much you’ll enjoy your time in Perth. Whether it's the work-life balance, the opportunities available, or the ease of exploring the city, Perth has truly been the perfect place to grow and thrive.