Safest Cities in Australia for Women to Live
1, Sydney
Located on Australia’s southeastern coast, Sydney is a vibrant metropolis known for its stunning harbour and iconic landmarks. It's a place where visitors can explore the internationally acclaimed Sydney Opera House and climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge for unbeatable panoramic city views. Sydney offers a unique balance of modern city life and beautiful natural landscapes, from its glittering high-rise skyline to the lush Botanic Garden and famous Bondi Beach. Sydney is also recognized for its rich cultural heritage, showcased in numerous museums, art galleries, and the historic Rocks district. A hot pot of festivals, markets, and international cuisine, the city presents a cosmopolitan charm mixed with a laid-back Aussie vibe, making it a top destination Down Under.
2, Canberra
Canberra, the picturesque capital city of Australia, is strategically located halfway between the country's two major cities, Sydney and Melbourne. Admired for its perfect blend of natural and man-made attractions, Canberra is known for its beautifully structured city layout, surrounded by lush green parks and large water bodies. It's famous globally as the home to such esteemed institutions as the Australian War Memorial, National Gallery of Australia, Parliament House, and the buzzing Australian National University. Canberra’s alluring wine districts, the cutting-edge exhibitions at Questacon (the National Science and Technology Centre), and its crystal clear night skies perfect for stargazing, all make it an immensely captivating travel destination.
3, Sunshine Coast
The Sunshine Coast, located in Queensland's southeast corner in Australia, is a magnificent blend of breathtaking beaches, spectacular hinterlands, and pristine habitats wrapped up with a laid-back lifestyle. It delivers an ensemble of urban sophistication and international attractions, unfolding over 100 kilometers of sparkling coastline. The region is famed for its splendid subtropical climate, beautiful coastal scenery, and numerous notable attractions such as Australia Zoo, Noosa National Park, Eumundi Markets, and underwater world marine park, drawing visitors for beachside relaxation, water sports, wildlife encounters, and eco-tourism. This naturally refreshing locale is an escape into tranquillity with its welcoming beachside culture, fresh local food, and world-class events.
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4, Perth
Perth, located on Australia's southwest coast, is the vibrant, sun-bathed capital city of Western Australia that constantly basks in a good-natured atmosphere. Renowned for its balance between a thriving urban environment and natural beauty, Perth offers soft sand beaches, expansive parkland, and a bustling cityscape. From the picturesque beaches of Scarborough and Cottesloe to the cultural bounty of Northbridge, there’s no lack of attractions. It’s famed for Kings Park, one of the largest inner-city parks in the world, Swan Valley, known for its wine tours, breweries and distilleries, and the Perth Cultural Centre, packed with museums, art galleries, and the State Theatre. An ultimate destination for those who crave an Australian mix of both urban and natural beauty, Perth is an essential stopover.
5, Gold Coast
Located in the southeastern region of sunny Queensland, Australia, the Gold Coast is renowned as a paradise for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its stunning golden beaches that stretch over 70 kilometers, vibrant nightlife, and world-class surf breaks, the Gold Coast offers a holiday experience like no other. Home to an array of theme parks including Sea World, Dreamworld, Warner Bros. Movie World and Wet'n'Wild, it guarantees an adventurous time for families. It also boasts the awe-inspiring hinterland of Lamington National Park and Gondwana Rainforest, the largest area of subtropical rainforest in the world. The city truly encapsulates a perfect balance between energetic metropolitan vibe and natural scenic beauty.
6, Hobart
Hobart, located in the southeastern corner of the island state of Tasmania, Australia, is an enchanting city that combines rich history, stunning natural beauty and a vibrant cultural scene. Known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, it's home to Australia's oldest brewery and the bustling Salamanca Market, where local artisans showcase their wares. Its prime location at the foot of Mount Wellington and on the shores of the Derwent River, provides an array of outdoor adventures, from hiking to sailing. The city is also renowned for the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), a testament to its thriving arts scene, and its mouth-watering local cuisine, featuring seafood straight from the Southern Ocean.
7, Melbourne
Melbourne, the vibrant coastal capital of Victoria in southeastern Australia, is renowned as a global hub for arts, multicultural dining, and sports. Situated on the banks of the Yarra River and around the shores of Port Phillip Bay, Melbourne is well-known for its eclectic cityscape that beautifully juxtaposes modern skyscrapers like Eureka Skydeck with heritage buildings such as Flinders Street Station and the Royal Exhibition Building. With its labyrinth of street art-laden alleyways, world-class museums including the National Gallery of Victoria, and endless array of delectable food at Queen Victoria Market, Melbourne never fails to delight. The city is also famed for organizing high-profile sports events – including the Australian Open tennis tournament and Melbourne Cup horse race, thus adding to an exciting travel experience.
8, Wollongong
Located on the stunning south coast of New South Wales, Australia, Wollongong, affectionately known as "The Gong", seamlessly blends the captivating allure of seaside living with the vibrancy of a cosmopolitan city. This coastal paradise, just 80 km south of Sydney, is known for its pristine sandy beaches, thrilling water sports, and the iconic Grand Pacific Drive that offers breathtaking coastal views. Home to the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere - Nan Tien Temple, and a thriving food and arts scene, Wollongong also boasts the popular Wollongong Botanic Garden and the Science Centre and Planetarium. Steeped in industrial history, it is Australia’s steel city, where the industrial merges with the natural in a setting profuse with lush mountain views and rugged surf beaches.
9, Brisbane
Located on the eastern coast of Australia, Brisbane is the vibrant capital city of Queensland known for its unique Queenslander architecture and a sun-soaked, sophisticated lifestyle. This bustling metropolis is located around the winding Brisbane River and boasts a rich art scene, extensive dining options and a nightlife that offers everything from jazz clubs to world-renowned symphony orchestras. Brisbane is famous for its fantastic weather, welcoming locals, and the iconic Story Bridge which offers adventurous tourists a thrilling climb and stunning city views. The city is home to noteworthy attractions such as the South Bank Parklands, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, and the beloved Queensland Gallery of Modern Art. With lush green spaces, a thriving cafe culture and easy access to the stunning Gold Coast beaches, Brisbane truly offers a dynamic experience for every traveler.
10, Coffs Harbour
Coffs Harbour, located approximately halfway between Sydney and Brisbane on Australia's stunning East Coast, is a vibrant coastal town known for its appealing climate, beautiful beaches, and abundant wildlife. A haven for watersport enthusiasts, the town's coastline is dotted with surf spots, while the nearby Solitary Islands Marine Park offers prime spots for snorkeling and diving. The town's most recognizable attraction is the 'Big Banana,' one of Australia's famous 'big things', reflecting the importance of banana farming in the area's economy. Furthermore, Coffs Harbour is the gateway to the lush rainforests of Dorrigo National Park, part of the Gondwana Rainforests, a UNESCO World Heritage site. With its unique blend of nature and attractions, Coffs Harbour is undoubtedly a must-visit in Australia.
11, Newcastle
Newcastle, situated in the heart of the Hunter Region, is Australia’s seventh-largest city, famous for its stunning coastal scenery, fantastic surfing beaches, and rich coal trading history. A two-hour drive north of Sydney, this vibrant city offers a blend of culture and historic architecture, and it's known for its welcoming, easy-going atmosphere. Visitors are attracted by substantial attractions, such as the historic Fort Scratchley, the Newcastle Art Gallery, the mesmerizing views from the ANZAC Memorial Walk, and the captivating sight of coal ships navigating the harbour. With a thriving food and craft beer scene adding to its charm, Newcastle is a must-visit location for those passionate about lifestyle-focused coastal cities.
12, Byron Bay
Byron Bay, situated on the easternmost point of mainland Australia in New South Wales, is a remarkable travel destination known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant surf culture. This coastal town boasts of a picturesque lighthouse perched atop the Cape Byron headland, offering stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and occasional whale sightings. Famous for its expansive, sun-soaked beaches, it's an ideal spot for swimming, surfing and kayaking. Coupled with a bustling food scene, eclectic local markets selling artisan products, and a lively night-life with live music, Byron Bay offers a distinctive, laid-back experience deeply imbued in nature and community.
13, Phillip Island
Located off the southern coast of Victoria, Australia, Phillip Island is an idyllic destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Famous for its Wildlife Park and reputed as the home of the largest colony of Little Penguins in the world, this enchanting island promises a unique mix of animal encounters and intriguing natural attractions. The Penguin Parade, where you can watch these delightful creatures march along the shoreline at sunset, is a must-see spectacle. Known for its spectacular coastal scenery, Phillip Island also offers visitors the opportunity to explore scenic walking trails, visit the Koala Conservation Centre, and soak up panoramic views at Nobbies Centre. The island’s vibrant history is showcased at Churchill Island Heritage Farm, and thrill-seekers can also enjoy high-speed fun on the Phillip Island Circuit. Whether you're seeking natural beauty, wildlife spotting, or a slice of adrenaline, Phillip Island caters to all.
14, Hervey Bay
Nestled on the Fraser Coast of Queensland in Australia, Hervey Bay is a mesmerizing coastal city renowned as the gateway to Fraser Island, the world's largest sand island. Known for its exceptionally tranquil beaches, distinctively mild climate, and an abundance of fascinating marine life, particularly humpback whales, it truly is a nature lover's paradise. From embarking on exhilarating whale watching expeditions to exploring the unparalleled beauty of the Great Sandy Strait, a designated Wetland of International Importance, or diving into its vibrant cultural scene at The Fraser Coast Discovery Sphere, there's never a dull moment in Hervey Bay. It's a beguiling destination that captures the quintessential charm of Australia and creates a magnetic pull for travelers from around the globe.
15, Forster
Forster is a captivating coastal town nestled in the heart of the Great Lakes region of New South Wales, Australia. Known for its stunning natural beauty, it boasts pristine beaches, serene lakes, and lush national parks. This popular holiday destination is an ideal spot for outdoor and water enthusiasts, offering scores of activities ranging from whale-watching to fishing, surfing, and diving, through the translucent aquamarine waters of the Pacific. The strikingly beautiful Wallis Lake, known for its oyster farming, is the jewel of Forster, offering stunning sunset views and exciting water sports. With its unique blend of nature's splendour and outdoor adventure, Forster promises an unforgettable travel experience.
16, Launceston
Launceston, an elegant riverside city located in the North of Tasmania, Australia, is famous for its impressive early colonial and Victorian-era architecture. Nestled at the confluence of North Esk, South Esk, and Tamar rivers, this vibrant city is known for Cataract Gorge, a beautiful wilderness area on the edge of the city boasting panoramic views, walking trails, sculpted gardens and a chairlift. Also, it presents a bevy of cultural attractions including the impressive Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery and the engaging City Park, frequently visited for its Japanese Macaque monkeys. The city's flourishing food and wine scene complements its rich history, featuring local produce in cafes and restaurants around town, with Tamar Valley vineyards at its doorstep. One could easily explore the nearby Cradle Mountain and Freycinet National Park from Launceston, adding to the rich palette of its tourism offering.
17, Bendigo
Situated in the heart of Victoria, Australia, Bendigo is an appealing city steeped in history and vibrant culture. Known as one of the leading regional hubs of Victoria, Bendigo boasts a rich heritage from the Australian gold rush era, evident in its magnificent Victorian-era architecture. The city is most famous for the Bendigo Art Gallery, which hosts a myriad of international exhibitions. In addition, visitors can explore the Central Deborah Gold Mine, appreciate the stunning displays at the Chinese Joss House temple, and enjoy a vintage tram ride in this charming city. Bendigo’s lively arts scene, coupled with its renowned wineries and burgeoning food culture, make it a must-visit destination for tourists seeking a unique blend of history and contemporary Australian lifestyle.
18, Mackay
Mackay, nestled on the eastern coast of Australia, is known for its sublime stretch of 31 tropical beaches and lush subtropical rainforests. Primarily recognized for its booming sugar industry, Mackay is fondly touted as the "sugar capital of Australia", housing near about a third of the country's total sugar farms. This picturesque city offers tourists a plethora of activities, from fishing in Pine Islet light, Queensland's oldest operating lighthouse, exploring diverse offshore islands, engaging in winding walks through Eungella National Park to possibly spotting a platypus in the wild, and witnessing the extraordinary spectacle of migrating whales. The marina area and unique Art Deco architecture perfectly characterize the charm of this coastal city, making Mackay a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a tranquil yet adventurous Australian retreat.
19, Shellharbour
Located on the picturesque South Coast of New South Wales, Australia, Shellharbour is an enchanting seaside town brimming with natural beauty and charms. Known for its pristine beaches, such as the well-renowned Killalea Reserve 'The Farm' beach - a national surfing reserve - and Mystics beach, it's the paradise getaway for sun-worshipers and water-sports enthusiasts alike. Framed by the stunning Illawarra Escarpment, it offers an array of recreational activities from bushwalking, bird watching, to exploring a network of cycle tracks. A focal point is certainly the Shellharbour Village, teeming with trendy cafes, alfresco restaurants and boutiques for visitors to relish. Embracing its rich Aboriginal and European history, Shellharbour is also home to several historic sites and museums like the Heritage Aircraft Restoration Hangar and Tongarra Museum.
20, Cervantes
Cervantes, a beautiful seaside town in Western Australia, is famed for its breezy, picturesque beaches and stunning natural beauty. Nestled approximately 200 kilometres north of capital city Perth, Cervantes serves as a gateway to the Pinnacles Desert - a major attraction known for an array of fascinating limestone formations. This tranquil town is also renowned for its wealth of wildlife, with potential encounters with sea lions, kangaroos and a multitude of bird species tantalizing nature enthusiasts. It is flanked by several islands which contribute to an overall rich biodiversity. Furthermore, it takes great pride in its thriving Western Rock Lobster (crayfish) industry, celebrating the crustacean with an annual festival that attract foodies from all around the globe.
Frequently asked questions
What are the safest places in Australia for women?
