Cost of Living in Australia for International Students. Australia is a popular destination for international students, and for good reason. Its universities are globally respected, the standard of living is high, and the country offers a unique mix of natural beauty, modern cities, and cultural diversity. However, before making the move, it is important to understand what daily life will cost you and how much you will need to budget each month.
Planning ahead helps you avoid financial stress and ensures you meet visa requirements. Notably, the minimum proof of funds requirement was updated in 2025, so having a realistic estimate of your expenses is more important than ever. To make things easier, this guide breaks down the most common cost-of-living expenses international students face in Australia.
All figures referenced are accurate as of December 2025, but costs can change over time. For the most up-to-date estimates, it is advisable to use a cost-of-living calculator or consult your institution’s international student office.
If you are still deciding where to study, you may also want to compare the cost of living in other popular destinations such as Canada, Germany, Ireland, the United Kingdom, or the United States.
Living Expenses
Your day-to-day living expenses in Australia will largely depend on your lifestyle, accommodation choice, dietary needs, and personal habits. Groceries in Australia can be more expensive than what many international students are used to, but there are ways to manage costs. Shopping at local farmers’ markets, especially for seasonal fruits and vegetables, can be more affordable and often provides fresher options. Supermarket reward programs can also help reduce overall grocery bills.
Housing is usually the biggest expense. Costs vary significantly depending on where you live and the type of accommodation you choose. Major cities, particularly Sydney, tend to be much more expensive than regional or rural areas. Students living in smaller cities or towns often enjoy lower rent and general living costs.
Common living expenses typically include rent, groceries, personal items, and health insurance. It is important to note that Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) costs vary depending on the provider and the level of coverage selected. The ranges commonly quoted reflect basic coverage, which is the minimum required for student visa holders.
Many students reduce their financial burden through scholarships and other forms of financial assistance, which can significantly lower the overall cost of studying in Australia.
Utilities
Utilities such as electricity, water, and heating are essential for a comfortable living environment. If you live on campus, including in purpose-built student accommodation, university-managed housing, or residential colleges, utility costs are usually included in your rent. This simplifies budgeting and removes the need to manage separate bills.
For students living off campus, utilities must be budgeted for separately. Monthly utility costs can vary based on several factors, including:
- The type and size of the accommodation
- Your lifestyle and usage habits
- City or regional pricing regulations
- Local climate conditions
If you want a clearer idea of expected utility costs, your landlord or building manager is often the best source of information. Alternatively, Study Australia’s cost-of-living calculator can provide a useful estimate.
In addition to basic utilities, remember to include expenses for mobile phone plans, internet, and television services. On-campus accommodation often includes internet and television, which can further reduce monthly expenses.
As part of your visa application, you must also demonstrate genuine intent to study in Australia, so understanding and planning for these costs is essential when meeting the Genuine Student requirement.
Leisure and Social Life
Studying abroad is not only about academics; enjoying life and maintaining balance is equally important. When planning your leisure budget, it helps to reflect on how you like to relax and recharge. Consider how you typically spend your weekends, what activities bring you joy, and what helps you unwind after stressful days.
Some students find relaxation through gym memberships, sports, or outdoor activities like surfing, while others prefer movies, social outings, or cultural events. Many Australian universities offer free or low-cost recreational facilities, student clubs, and intramural sports, which can significantly reduce leisure costs while helping you build friendships.
Regardless of how you spend your free time, it is important to keep an emergency fund and avoid overspending. Average leisure costs can include gym memberships, movie tickets, dining out, and entertainment, all of which should be factored into your monthly budget.
Many international students also work part-time while studying, which can help cover leisure and living expenses. Exploring part-time work opportunities related to your field of study can be both financially and professionally beneficial.
Transportation
Public transportation and cycling are the most common ways international students get around in Australia. Undergraduate students should consider purchasing an International Student Transit Pass (IST Pass), which can offer up to 50% savings on regular transit fares.
Many Australian cities also operate bike-share programs, allowing students to borrow bicycles for short trips. This can be a cost-effective alternative if you do not want to buy a bike or lack storage space.
Generally, students who live off campus spend more on transportation than those living on campus, as daily commuting costs add up. Transportation expenses vary by city and region, so it is wise to research local transit options before choosing accommodation.
Academic Supplies
Academic supplies are another area where smart planning can lead to savings. Items such as notebooks, binders, sticky notes, and highlighters should be purchased thoughtfully, and reusable supplies from previous semesters should be kept whenever possible. University job fairs and campus events often provide free branded stationery, which can further reduce costs.
Textbooks can be particularly expensive, but there are several ways to manage this expense. Many universities offer long-term textbook loans through their libraries, and city libraries may also carry commonly used texts, especially for introductory courses. If purchasing is unavoidable, secondhand platforms such as StudentVIP can be a more affordable option. Always ensure you are buying the correct edition required for your course.
Final Thoughts
Australia offers a wide range of cities, climates, cultures, and student experiences. Choosing where to study involves more than academic ranking, it also requires a clear understanding of living costs and personal affordability.
By carefully considering living expenses, utilities, transportation, leisure, and academic supplies, you can create a realistic monthly budget and avoid unexpected financial pressure. Understanding your financial position should be a key part of your study-abroad preparation, and this guide can serve as a useful reference whenever you begin planning.
If you are ready to take the next step, SVAbroad Connect can help turn your study abroad plans into reality by helping you find Australian institutions and programs that align with your academic goals.
