Umm, in Perth it is easy to get around if you live near the train line. Rents are more expensive closer to the train though. The country towns aren't usually very 'hickish' just more isolated, with not too much to do. Can only speak about WA though, have no idea what it is like over east. However my mate moved from Sydney to Cairns and his speech slowed down dramatically, so take that as you will.
And fuel at the moment here is around $1.25 a litre. So it is getting expensive to drive. Public transport isn't the greatest, and Perth does have a dullsville reputation, and it is very insular. If you are after somewhere with a diverse nightlife, Perth isn't the place for you.
The best thing is it is only a 3 and a half hour drive Down South, where it is a total change of pace. A great place to escape to I reckon.