Money and Living Expenses

Understanding the Costs of Studying and Living in Australia

When planning your move to Australia, expenses are one of the most important factors to consider. In fact, they often outweigh all other aspects of the decision. Your total cost will depend on your chosen university, level of study, and field of study, as well as the city or region where you live.

Being aware of the average cost of living in Australia is essential for your financial planning. The Department of Home Affairs has set specific financial requirements for obtaining a student visa (Subclass 500). These include proof of funds for tuition, travel, and living expenses.

As of October 2020, the estimated annual living cost is:

• Student or guardian: AUD 21,041
• Partner: AUD 7,362
• Dependent child: AUD 3,152

Accommodation Costs

• Hostels & guest houses: AUD 90 – 150/week
• Shared rentals: AUD 95 – 215/week
• On-campus: AUD 110 – 280/week
• Homestay: AUD 235 – 325/week
• Private rentals: AUD 185 – 440/week
• Boarding schools: AUD 11,000 – 22,000/year

Other Living Expenses

• Food & groceries: AUD 140 – 280/week
• Utilities: AUD 10 – 20/week
• Mobile phone: AUD 15 – 30/week
• Recreation: AUD 80 – 150/week

Groceries from local supermarkets like Aldi, Coles, and Woolworths can cost between AUD 500 – 1,000/month. A budget meal at a low-cost restaurant is around AUD 18, while a three-course meal for two costs about AUD 80.

Average Housing Costs by State/Territory

New South Wales (Sydney)

• Shared house/apartment: AUD 200 – 300/week
• Single unit: AUD 400 – 550/week
• Regional NSW: AUD 250 – 350/week (single unit)

Queensland (Brisbane)

• Single unit: ~AUD 300/week
• 3-bedroom apartment: AUD 350+/week
• Far North QLD: ~AUD 240/week
• Gold Coast: AUD 350+/week

Victoria (Melbourne)

• Single unit: AUD 300 – 350/week
• Regional VIC: AUD 190 – 270/week (single unit)

Tasmania (Hobart)

• Single unit: ~AUD 205/week
• 3-bedroom apartment: AUD 350+/week

South Australia (Adelaide)

• Rental range: AUD 165 – 440/week
• Regional 3-bedroom apartment: AUD 280 – 330/week

Western Australia (Perth)

• Single unit: ~AUD 300/week
• 3-bedroom apartment: ~AUD 350/week

Northern Territory (Darwin)

• Single unit: ~AUD 300/week
• 3-bedroom apartment: ~AUD 450/week

Australian Capital Territory (Canberra)

• Single unit: ~AUD 400/week
• 3-bedroom apartment: ~AUD 450/week

Take the First Step Today

Book a FREE consultation with Worldwise Consultants to plan your studies and budget for life in Australia.