Living Costs in Australia

If you’re thinking of studying in Australia, you will need to know the cost of supporting yourself. Obvious expenses include accommodation, food, clothes, child-care, and entertainment. Below is a general guide on financial requirements for international students studying in Australia for each academic year (excluding course tuition fees, Overseas Student Health Cover, and travel/incidentals). Please note that these costs are estimates and can vary significantly based on individual lifestyles, locations, and preferences.

The Department of Home Affairs has set out the financial evidence you must demonstrate. As a single student, you must be able to show that you have the financial capacity to cover living costs of at least AUD $29,710. There are additional costs for extra family members.

Please refer to the Study Australia website for a more accurate calculator of your estimated costs, or consult the Department of Home Affairs website for more information.

Initial Establishment Costs

Setting up in a shared apartment (e.g., rental bond for accommodation, electricity, gas, and telephone) could cost around AUD $2,000–$2,500. These initial costs may vary depending on your choice of accommodation and location.

Accommodation Costs

• Hostels and Guesthouses: AUD $100–$180 per week
• Shared Rental: AUD $150–$250 per week
• Homestay: AUD $250–$350 per week
• Private Rental: AUD $200–$500 per week
• Boarding Schools: AUD $12,000–$25,000 per year

Note: Accommodation costs vary widely depending on location, proximity to the city, and type of housing.

Other Living Costs

• Groceries and eating out: AUD $90–$300 per week
• Gas, electricity: AUD $50–$160 per week
• Phone and Internet: AUD $25–$60 per week
• Public transport: AUD $20–$70 per week
• Car (after purchase): AUD $180–$300 per week
• Entertainment: AUD $90–$200 per week

Disclaimer: The above costs are approximate and can differ depending on individual consumption, utility rates, and personal lifestyle choices.

Education Costs

Australian education tuition fees for international students are competitive. Tuition fees are exempt from GST and charged up-front, with additional charges for mandatory resources such as workbooks, sports facilities, laboratory costs, and library fees.

English Language Courses

The cost of English courses varies greatly depending on the duration and level. Courses can range from AUD $1,000 for short courses to AUD $15,000 per year for university preparation courses.

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

VET courses can range between AUD $5,000 and $75,000 depending on the course, duration, and level of qualification (e.g., certificate, diploma, or advanced diploma).

Disclaimer: Course fees vary significantly based on the institution, course structure, and location. Always confirm specific costs with the institution before enrolling.

General Notes

Living in Australia offers incredible opportunities, but it’s essential to budget appropriately to ensure a comfortable experience while studying in one of the most dynamic cities in the world.