[suttol]

As another Perth resident, and one working for a local startup I think that whilst all of your points re. increased cost of living are very true, Perth still has a lot of potential in terms of it's tech and startup scene.

One of the biggest advantages IMHO we have over other states in Australia (that I believe makes up for most of the distance factor) is the more relaxed atmosphere which is very conducive to, lacking a better description, "Getting shit done".

Rent is very high across the board, but more frustratingly getting houses is becoming harder and harder - When I was looking a while ago it was almost impossible to find a single bedroom apartment between Mosman Park and Mount Lawley (admittedly, a reasonably expensive area) for under $350, even if they were old, undermaintained places. The demand for them was significant (most viewings had a fair amount of people) - From the people I've talked to searching for places since, that demand has only gone up further - Driving the prices even higher.

With all of that said and done, Perth is finally getting into the swing of having a startup scene - over the last year and even more focused the last six months, there have been more and more startups popping up in Perth (not just as side projects, but as actual companies working full time on products) and there has been a surge of interested. We're still behind other Australian cities, but it is definitely ramping up in a noticeable way.

[jacques_chester]

Oh you Perth people, complaining about $350 rent/week for an entire house. It's adorable.

I was paying $200/week for a room in Darwin.

Darcy, can you email me?

[suttol]

Also, one thing I missed - there is a definite startup market here for those catering to the mining industry and its boom. I know of at least one (I believe self funded startup) doing just that and they appear to be doing well for themselves.