A message from the Mayor of Cairns

Cairns is one of Australia’s most popular choices for study tourism and I am very proud that so many international students make us their “home away from home”.

We offer a perfect balance of excellent educational facilities, a stunning climate, pollution-free environment and friendly hospitality.

Our vibrant and multicultural city has a big heart. We are home to 165,000 people from many nations, and each year we welcome more than 2.8 million visitors from across the globe.

A world famous tourism destination, Cairns is the only place on earth where two World Heritage listed areas meet. We are surrounded by the precious natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics, the world’s oldest rainforest.

International students who choose Cairns have the unique opportunity to explore our region’s spectacular marine environment, pristine tropical rainforests and stunning beaches. Our direct domestic and international air services make it easy for students’ friends and family to visit and share holidays.

Our community welcomes student visitors and many local families open their homes to students on short and longer-term stays. For students who choose to live independently, Cairns offers a great variety of affordable housing options close to the beaches and city centre, and an excellent network of cycling and walking paths.

Cairns is the ideal destination for your studies and I look forward to welcoming you to our tropical paradise.

Cr Bob Manning
Mayor of Cairns