I am researching different universities to study in Australia from January to July. I have looked into New Castle and Brisbane. The criteria I have for deciding follows as most important to least: Reputable in Communication studies with oppertunities for internships, a city atmosphere that is youth oriented with many outdoor activities (hiking, skiing, surfing), a good social scene with both relaxed oriented students, cost of living not to high, and not a large city because I'd like to get a feel for local culture.

I hope you haven't made a decision yet. If you have then stop reading here!

You know that Newcastle is a tiny town...

Brisbane would be my choice of the two because it's a capital city, with easy access to the Gold Coast, Sunshine coast and Byron Bay. You can fly from there using low cost airline virgin which is based there to other places in Aus.

If I was an Australian employer I'd look more favourably on a city uni than a country one. And internationally you're going to have to explain that you studied communications in what they call small town remote Australia...

Also in terms of finding work, Newcastle is not going to help you.

Brisbane is still a small city, you will get the cultural feel its very laid back, and has a very different feel from Sydney or Melbourne.

You could go into culture shock in Newcastle!