Omari Gates
Australia has been ranked 13th on the Global Peace Index (GPI), which is the world's leading measure of global peacefulness. The GPI report is released annually by the Australia-based Institute of Economics and Peace (IEP) and ranks 163 independent states and territories using 23 indicators to measure societal safety and security, the extent of ongoing domestic and international conflicts, and the degree of militarization. Australia's high ranking on the GPI, as well as its reputation as a peaceful country for travellers, makes it a popular destination for international students and tourists seeking a safe and secure environment.
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What You'll Learn
Australia's peacefulness ranking
Australia has consistently ranked highly in the Global Peace Index (GPI), a report that ranks countries based on their "level of peacefulness". The GPI is produced by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) and covers 99.7% of the world's population, using 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators to measure peace across three domains: societal safety and security, the extent of ongoing domestic and international conflicts, and the degree of militarization.
In the 2024 GPI, Australia was ranked as the 13th most peaceful country in the world, making it an attractive destination for international students. The country's peacefulness, combined with its high-quality education, cultural diversity, and range of English-taught courses, have contributed to its popularity as a study abroad destination.
The 2025 GPI report found that global peacefulness continued to decline, with rising geopolitical tensions, increasing conflicts, and the breakdown of traditional alliances. While the top 10 countries in the 2025 GPI remained relatively unchanged from previous years, Australia was not among the top 10 most peaceful countries.
Despite not being in the top 10, Australia still offers peaceful retreats and destinations for travellers seeking to avoid crowds. For example, Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Islands is known for its pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters, providing a tranquil escape from tourist hotspots.
Overall, while Australia may not consistently rank within the top 10 most peaceful countries, it still maintains a relatively high level of peacefulness, as reflected in its GPI rankings and its appeal as a study and travel destination.
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Factors influencing peacefulness
Australia is ranked 13th on the Global Peace Index (GPI), which is a testament to its peacefulness. The GPI is a report produced by the Australia-based NGO Institute for Economics & Peace (IEP) that measures the relative peacefulness of 163 independent states and territories, accounting for 99.7% of the world's population. The GPI utilises 23 indicators to assess the level of peacefulness in a country, broadly categorised into safety and security in society. Here are some factors that influence peacefulness:
Low Crime Rates
Peaceful societies typically have lower crime rates, including reduced incidences of violent crimes such as homicide. Countries with higher crime rates may experience a greater fear of violence and a perception of insecurity among their citizens.
Minimal Terrorist Acts and Violent Demonstrations
The absence or minimal occurrence of terrorist acts and violent protests contributes to a country's peacefulness. Countries that experience frequent terrorist attacks or violent civil unrest often have higher levels of societal tension and instability.
Harmonious Relations with Neighbouring Countries
Peaceful countries maintain harmonious and stable relationships with their neighbouring nations. Positive international relations help prevent conflicts from escalating and ensure a more peaceful geopolitical environment.
Stable Political Scene
Political stability is a crucial factor in maintaining peace within a country. Frequent changes in government, political turmoil, or authoritarian regimes can disrupt the social fabric and lead to internal conflicts.
Low Levels of Displacement and Refugees
A peaceful country tends to have a lower proportion of its population facing internal displacement or seeking refugee status. High levels of displacement and refugees can indicate underlying societal tensions or a failure to meet human security needs.
Education and Economic Factors
Education and economic factors also play a role in fostering peacefulness. Higher levels of education can promote critical thinking, tolerance, and understanding among citizens. Additionally, economic stability and reduced income inequality can contribute to a more peaceful society by addressing underlying social and economic grievances.
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Safety and security
Australia is considered a peaceful country, ranking 13th in the Global Peace Index (GPI) in 2024. The GPI is a report produced by the Australia-based Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) that measures the relative peacefulness of 163 independent states and territories, accounting for 99.7% of the world's population. The GPI uses 23 indicators to assess the level of peacefulness in a country, including safety and security, societal safety, the extent of domestic and international conflicts, and militarization.
Regarding safety and security, Australia has a relatively low crime rate and minimal incidents of terrorist acts and violent demonstrations. The country also has harmonious relations with its neighbouring countries and a stable political scene. Australia has also implemented measures to protect the rights of international students and support their transition to life in a new city. The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) is a law-enforced protection act that provides guidance and support for international students in dealing with legal issues, developing job skills, and socializing.
Australia's peacefulness is further reflected in its education system, which promotes innovation, creativity, and independent thinking. The country's universities attract a large number of international students due to their focus on practical learning and high-quality education. The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) ensures consistent education standards across all levels, and universities offer a wide range of course choices at various educational levels, catering to the academic interests of students globally.
While Australia ranks highly in terms of safety and security, it is important to acknowledge that the GPI has been criticized for not including indicators specifically related to violence against women and children. Additionally, Australia's ranking in the GPI has fluctuated over the years, and the country has faced challenges such as increasing geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties.
Overall, Australia is considered a peaceful country with a strong focus on safety and security. The country's initiatives to support international students and its highly regarded education system further contribute to its peaceful reputation. However, there are areas for improvement, such as including a broader range of indicators in the GPI to address various forms of violence more comprehensively.
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Education and affordability
Australia has a variety of educational institutions, including universities, education and training institutions, schools, and colleges. The cost of living and studying in Australia varies across cities and programs. The Australian government has established the Choice and Affordability Fund (CAF) to support non-government schools in providing affordable education and achieving government priorities. The fund is administered by independent and Catholic NGRBs in each state and territory, with a total estimated amount of $1.2 billion to be provided to the non-government sector from 2020 to 2029.
The CAF is intended to assist non-government schools in transitioning to the government's recurrent funding arrangements and supporting schools affected by unexpected circumstances such as natural disasters or the COVID-19 pandemic. It also aims to enhance student wellbeing and support through safe and respectful learning environments. The NGRBs must report annually on their progress in achieving the priority objectives and intended outcomes outlined in their agreements.
International students applying for a student visa in Australia must demonstrate that they have the minimum financial resources required. The actual living costs in Australia may be higher than the visa requirements, and students are encouraged to use the Cost of Living Calculator to estimate their expenses. International students can choose from various accommodation options, including on-campus residences, homestay, and private rentals.
However, there is a concern about the affordability of education in Australia, with a significant number of students relying on paid work and struggling to meet basic living costs. The increasing cost of living, including soaring petrol prices, food costs, and transportation expenses, poses challenges for students, especially those without family support. Income support for students has received limited attention, and there is a perceived lack of welfare support to help with the financial burden of higher education.
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Australia's natural peaceful retreats
Australia is home to many beautiful natural retreats that offer peace and serenity. Here are some of the most tranquil destinations to consider:
Uluṟu, Northern Territory
Uluṟu, also known as Ayers Rock, is a sacred site for the Aboriginal people and is considered the spiritual heart of Australia. The vast red monolith rising from the flat landscape is a sight to behold. The surrounding area, including Kata Tjuṯa, is rich in Aboriginal history and culture, offering a profound and contemplative experience.
Great Ocean Road, Victoria
The Great Ocean Road is a stunning stretch of coastline in Victoria, featuring iconic landmarks such as the Twelve Apostles. The Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk is a four-day journey that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of the coast, with breathtaking views of the wild Southern Ocean.
Cradle Mountain, Tasmania
Tasmania is renowned for its pristine natural environments, and Cradle Mountain is a highlight. The Cradle Mountain Signature Walk is a six-day trek through breathtaking landscapes, including ancient rainforests, grass button plains, and extraordinary views. The clean air and tranquil surroundings provide an ideal opportunity to reconnect with nature.
Eighty Mile Beach, Western Australia
Eighty Mile Beach Marine Park, located on the far north coast of Western Australia, offers a unique experience where wildlife vastly outnumbers humans. This tranquil setting is a major nesting site for flatback turtles and is home to thousands of wading birds, dugongs, sawfish, and dolphins. The sound of the creaky white sand underfoot adds to the peaceful atmosphere.
Kimberley Region, Western Australia
The Kimberley region in Western Australia is a wilderness frontier with incredible diversity. It boasts dinosaur footprints, red dirt and aqua blue water, fertile valleys, waterfalls, and desert landscapes. The Mitchell Falls, set amidst the red rocks, offer a spectacular oasis with a tropical rainforest and dramatic cliffs. The Kimberley region is also significant for its Aboriginal communities, providing a spiritual connection to the land.
These natural peaceful retreats in Australia offer a range of experiences, from coastal walks to wilderness escapes, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the country's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
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Frequently asked questions
Australia is considered a peaceful country and is a popular study abroad destination. In the 2024 Global Peace Index (GPI), it was ranked as the 13th most peaceful country.
The Global Peace Index (GPI) is a report published by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) that ranks countries based on their level of peacefulness. The 2025 GPI found that global peacefulness has declined for the sixth year in a row, with an average deterioration of about 0.36%.
Australia's peacefulness can be attributed to various factors, including its cultural diversity, focus on practical learning in education, and the implementation of the ESOS Act, which protects the rights of international students and provides them with guidance and support.
Yes, according to the GPI, countries such as New Zealand, Denmark, Portugal, and Slovenia are also considered peaceful and are often ranked within the top 10 alongside Australia. These countries have demonstrated improvements in safety, security, and militarization.
