Living costs

Plan your stay in Australia and work out your weekly budget with our handy guide to the cost of everyday living.

Plan your budget

The cost of living for a single international student fluctuates based on the state and location, as well as the lifestyle you choose, and can vary from year to year. This includes rent, food, transport and other essential living expenses. It does not include tuition fees, textbooks, the cost of running a car, or social activities.

For the latest requirements regarding demonstrating sufficient funds for your stay as part of the student visa application process, visit Subclass 500 Student visa.

If you are bringing your family, you will need to budget for additional living costs.

Initial set-up cost

In addition to your ongoing expenses, it's important to plan your initial set-up budget upon arrival in Australia for the following essentials: temporary accommodation for the initial two weeks, rent in advance, a rental bond (typically equivalent to one month's rent, refundable upon departure), utility connection charges, and items such as furniture, bedding, and kitchenware.

Tips for saving money

There are lots of ways to live a cheaper lifestyle if you’re trying to save money. For example:

• Use your student concession card wherever it is accepted. This can save you money in campus shops or on the cost of social activities, like going to the movies.
• Shop at fresh food markets rather than supermarkets for fruit, vegetables and meat. Buy fruit and veg when it’s in season.
• Shop at discount pharmacies when purchasing medications, and shop at supermarkets to purchase over-the-counter pharmacy products like moisturiser, shampoo and toothpaste.
• Consider buying second hand furniture to furnish your apartment.
• Shop around. Compare prices before you purchase, particularly on items of clothing and larger items like white goods, furniture and electrical goods.
• Use a budget-planning tool to manage your money.

Tips for saving money

There are lots of ways to live a cheaper lifestyle if you’re trying to save money. For example:

• Use your student concession card wherever it is accepted. This can save you money in campus shops or on the cost of social activities, like going to the movies.
• Shop at fresh food markets rather than supermarkets for fruit, vegetables and meat. Buy fruit and veg when it’s in season.
• Shop at discount pharmacies when purchasing medications, and shop at supermarkets to purchase over-the-counter pharmacy products like moisturiser, shampoo and toothpaste.
• Consider buying second hand furniture to furnish your apartment.
• Shop around. Compare prices before you purchase, particularly on items of clothing and larger items like white goods, furniture and electrical goods.
• Use a budget-planning tool to manage your money.