There are many misconceptions about Australia. What can be typically seen on TV are its dangerous wildlife, its vast landscapes of forests and mountains that are home to behemoth, endemic animal species - all perpetuating a hazardous environment.
But the recent Global Peace Index released by The Institute for Economics and Peace is saying the opposite. Australia currently ranks as amongst the safest countries in the world, third only to Iceland and Denmark, and has been ranked consistently as such in the past few years. And mind you, the index measures not only crime rate but also the judicial system, vulnerability to political and economic crises, corruption level, and many others.
Here are some reasons why Australia is much safer than you think:
1. Crime rate is very low
Since 2000, the crime rate in the country has been very low and is amongst the lowest in the whole world. According to data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, most petty crimes in the country have declined from last year.
Breaking and entering, for instance, fell by 64 percent, motor vehicle theft by 69 percent, street robbery by 63 percent, while overall stealing offences declined by 37 percent. Although some crimes experience a slight rise, most of them barely reach the 8 percent increase rate.
2. Gun laws are praiseworthy
It has been two decades since gun reforms in the country began, and it has yielded favourable results. The passing of laws that prohibit quick access to firearms and ban acquisition of rapid-fire long guns entirely eradicated incidents of mass shootings and homicides, which remain prevalent in some First World countries.
“We found that homicide and suicide firearms deaths had been falling before the reforms, and we’ve shown that a major policy intervention designed to stop mass shootings has had an effect on other gun-related deaths as well," said Professor Simon Chapman, who lead a study proving the efficacy of the country's gun laws in eradicating crimes.
3. Roads are safer
Australian roads are also the 15th safest in the world. A new study from the International Traffic Safety Data and Analysis Group (IRTAD) says that Australian roads are 10 times safer than those of the United States where 10.3 people killed for every 100,000 people. There are only 5 deaths per 100,000 pedestrians and drivers in the country. It’s not something to celebrate, of course, but this one’s still low.
4. Economy remains strong
The Australian economy, once described as “the envy of the developed world,” by The Guardian, is amongst the largest mixed market economies in the world. While the country’s economy is far from totally invincible, it maintains a relatively strong labour market that continuously attracts foreign talents.
Its economy, on the other hand, is constantly growing at a commendable 3.1 percent rate, its 20th consecutive quarter of growth in the first three months of 2016. Hence: Strong economies, more jobs, stronger buying power to obtain basic needs equals more satisfied citizens.
5. Home to the world’s most livable city
Melbourne has consistently topped The Economist Intelligence Unit's (EIU) Most Livable City in The World rankings for six straight years, and it means something. Perth and Adelaide are also in the top 10, while other cities such as Canberra and Brisbane made it to the top 20 and 30, respectively.
Among the EIU’s yardstick for such is general safety and security, which encompasses economic and political stability and low crime levels.
6. Lack of Corruption
Australia has always been among the least corrupt countries in the world, though the latest data from watchdog firm Transparency International reveals the country has slid from top 11 to just 13 this year.
This is still very praiseworthy since there are over a hundred countries in the world, and to be in the top 20 means something. Corruption rate in Australia presently averages at 9.62 from 1995 until 2015. In 2000, it recorded an all-time high of 13.00 and an all-time low of 7.00 in 1995.
Having a low corruption rate speaks volumes.
Although “safety” is a quite a broad word, we can say that Australia is worthy of the appellation. Aside from the points mentioned above, there are many other reasons the country remains attractive to foreigners.
Being a multicultural country makes it perfect for migrants, while the youth would surely enjoy its strong regard for culture and tradition.
Considering moving to Australia? Talk to our seasoned migration consultants about your eligibility for a visa to Australia.
Additional Ref: https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/australia-ranks-among-the-safest-countries-in-which-to-drive-20150527-ghb22b.html
Remember:
This post is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional immigration advice. Given the uniqueness of every case, engaging with a registered migration agent is highly recommended for bespoke guidance and to navigate the specific details of your situation effectively. Book a visa consultation with a Registered Migration Agent
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