Australia is one of the world's most popular study-abroad locations, but it ranks third overall, providing outstanding education to hundreds of thousands of students each year.
As of March 2024, there were 741,224 enrolled international students, representing a 16% growth over the same period in 2019.
This figure represents a significant increase in the number of international students studying in Australia. But there's another side to the story. The living costs in Australia for students are one of the most important considerations when studying abroad. We've seen many students struggle in Australia after receiving admission to their preferred university owing to living expenditures.
The good news is that if you handle it correctly, it will be easier. And, in this blog post, we'll go over the living costs in Australia for students in 2025.
Australia Student Living Costs in 2025: A Complete Breakdown
Understanding the living cost and student budget planning in Australia is crucial to ensure a smooth stay and studies. However, expenses can vary based on location, lifestyle, and personal choices. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of the typical living costs in Australia for students daily and monthly:
1. Accommodation
Accommodation is often the most significant Australian student living expense. Here are some options for those who are on a student visa for Australia:
- On-Campus Accommodation: Universities offer housing ranging from AUD 90 to AUD 280 per week, depending on location and facilities.
- Off-Campus Rental: Renting privately varies widely. In cities like Sydney and Melbourne, a one-bedroom apartment can cost between AUD 185 to AUD 440 per week.
- Shared Accommodation: Sharing with others can reduce costs to about AUD 85 to AUD 215 per week per person.
- Hostels & Budget Lodging: A cost-effective option for short-term stays, typically costing AUD 90 to AUD 150 per week.
2. Cost of Food and Groceries in Australia
Average food cost in Australia per month:
- Groceries: Expect to spend around AUD 140 to AUD 280 per week on essentials like fruits, vegetables, dairy, and meat.
- Dining Out: The cost of eating out in Australia in Australia starts from 20 AUD going up to AUD 60 or more or less depending.
- Fast Food & Takeaway: Common meals like burgers, pizza, or Asian takeaway cost around AUD 10 to AUD 15 per meal.
- Meal Subscription Services: Pre-made meal delivery plans range from AUD 50 to AUD 150 per week, depending on the number of meals.
Read More: Student Visa Extension Australia: Steps & Updates 2025
3. Transportation
Another crucial expense to consider when it comes to student budget planning in Australia is Transportation:
- Public Transport: Monthly passes range from AUD 100 to AUD 200, depending on the city. Students may be eligible for discounts.
- Bicycles: A cost-effective option; second-hand bikes can be purchased for AUD 100 to AUD 300.
- Ride-Sharing & Taxis: Uber and taxis cost about AUD 10 to AUD 40 per ride, depending on the distance.
- Car Expenses: If you own a car, fuel costs around AUD 1.80 to AUD 2.10 per liter, plus insurance, registration, and maintenance.
4. Utilities and Internet
The Cost of utilities in Australia for students are as follows:
- Electricity & Gas: If not included in rent, expect to pay around AUD 10 to AUD 20 per week.
- Water Bill: Some rental properties require tenants to pay for water, costing around AUD 5 to AUD 15 per week.
- Internet & Mobile Plans: Monthly internet plans range from AUD 50 to AUD 100, per month.
5. Personal & Lifestyle
- Clothing & Footwear: Annual student living expenses can range from AUD 500 to AUD 1,000, depending on personal needs.
- Laundry & Grooming: For laundry and grooming - you can expect to pay around 50-100 AUD per month.
- Leisure & entertainment: It includes gym membership, streaming services, movies, and weekend gateways costing around AUD 200 to 1000 - based on your personal preferences.
Read More: Visa Rejection in Australia: Common Reasons Uncovered
6. Study Materials & Health Insurance Costs for Students
- Textbooks & Study Materials: Budget approximately AUD 500 to AUD 1,000 annually for books, software, and stationery.
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): Health insurance cost in Australia for students is mandatory for international students, costing AUD 450 to AUD 600 per year.
- Doctor Visits: A general practitioner (GP) visit costs between AUD 50 to AUD 100, if not covered by insurance.
Unexpected Expenses: Always set aside a small emergency fund of AUD 500 to AUD 1,000 for sudden Australian student living expenses.
7. Summary of Student Living Cost in Australia Per Month
The average cost of living in Australia for international students in 2025 ranges from AUD 1,568 to AUD 4,950 per month, depending on location and lifestyle. Here's a quick cost breakdown:
Expense Category | Estimated Cost (AUD per Month) |
Accommodation | 370 - 1,760 |
Food & Groceries | 560 - 1,120 |
Transportation | 100 - 400 |
Utilities (Electricity, Gas, Water) | 60 - 140 |
Internet & Mobile | 50 - 100 |
Personal & Lifestyle | 200 - 1,000 |
Study Materials | 40 - 80 |
Health Insurance (OSHC) | 38 - 50 |
Doctor Visits (If Needed) | 50 - 100 |
Emergency Fund | 100 - 200 |
Total Estimated Cost | 1,568 - 4,950 |
These estimates vary based on lifestyle, location, and personal spending habits. Let me know if you'd like adjustments or further details!
Read More: Skilled Migration in Australia: Who is Eligible?
How can students save money in Australia?
Here are some of the tips for students who study in Australia to save money and make some money to ensure living in Australia is easier:
- Budgeting: Use apps to track Australian student living expenses and maintain a budget.
- Student Discounts: Utilize discounts available on transport, entertainment, and retail.
- Student part-time jobs in Australia: International students can work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during breaks, providing additional income.
- Scholarships and Grants: Research and apply for available financial aid to offset costs.
To Conclude
When you study in Australia, it offers incredible opportunities, but managing living costs in Australia for international students is crucial for a smooth experience. From student accommodation in Australia and food to transport and healthcare, understanding and budgeting for these Australian student living costs can help international students plan effectively.
There will be Australian student living expenses, but proper budgeting, choosing the right city, with a student discount, getting a student part-time job in Australia, a scholarship, etc will ensure a rewarding and stress-free study experience in Australia.
To know more cost of living in Australia as per your needs and ensure stress-free living - connect with our team of professionals at Visafast Migration Consultancy.
Our migration agent in Adelaide will understand your requirements and ensure a smooth Australia visa process. Book a consultation call right away.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Is Sydney or Melbourne cheaper for students?
Melbourne is generally considered slightly more affordable than Sydney, especially in terms of rent and transportation. However, living costs in Australia for students vary depending on lifestyle and location within each city.
Can I work part-time while studying in Australia?
Yes! International students on a student visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the academic term and unlimited hours during holidays.
