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Student Life

Cost of Living in Australia for International Students

Rent, food, transport and more: a realistic monthly budget for Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide.

  • Westfield team
  • 8 Jul 2026
  • 6 min read
  • Free first consultation
  • Fees agreed in writing

Australia is a fantastic study destination, but it's important to budget realistically. Costs vary significantly between cities.

Accommodation

Shared rentals typically cost A$200–A$400 per week, while on-campus housing ranges from A$300–A$550 per week.

Everyday costs

Groceries cost around A$100–A$150 per week, and public transport A$30–A$60 per week with student concessions.

  • Rent: A$800–1,600/month
  • Food: A$400–600/month
  • Transport: A$120–240/month
  • Phone & internet: A$60/month

Part-time work

Students can work 48 hours per fortnight during study periods, and Australia's minimum wage is among the highest in the world.

Written by the Westfield team

Rules, fees and deadlines change often. Always confirm the latest details with the university or official government website.

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