One of the most important steps in planning your studies in Australia is understanding what daily life actually costs. From rent and groceries to transport and entertainment, having a realistic monthly budget gives you the confidence to focus on your studies — knowing your finances are under control. This guide covers average living expenses in Australia for international students, broken down by category so you can plan ahead with accuracy.
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Disclaimer: Living costs vary a lot between cities and lifestyles. Monthly figures in this guide are estimates. Always confirm the latest requirements on the Department of Home Affairs website.
Average Monthly Living Costs for International Students in Australia (2027)
International students in Australia should budget for accommodation, groceries, utilities, transportation, health insurance, and personal expenses. Actual costs depend on the city, housing arrangement, and lifestyle. Use the estimates below as a starting point and check current prices before making financial plans.
Estimated monthly total (excluding tuition): A$2,500 to A$5,000+, depending on your city, lifestyle, and accommodation type. For a personal estimate, try the official Study Australia cost of living calculator.
Housing: Your Biggest Monthly Expense
Accommodation will account for the largest share of your monthly living expenses in Australia. There are two main options: on-campus residence and off-campus rentals.
On-campus housing typically includes utilities and internet, which simplifies budgeting significantly. If you're living off-campus, remember to add electricity, water, and internet costs on top of your rent.
Tip! Sharing a house or apartment with two or three housemates is one of the easiest ways to cut your rent and utility bills. On-campus housing usually includes utilities and internet, which makes budgeting simpler.
Groceries and Food
Cooking at home is the most effective way to keep food costs down. Australia's major supermarkets — Coles, Woolworths, and ALDI — offer good value, and ALDI in particular is popular with students watching their budget. Most university campuses also have affordable food options on site.
Transport
Transport costs depend heavily on your state, because concession fares for international students vary:
- Queensland: All Translink public transport costs a flat 50 cents per trip for everyone. This is now permanent.
- Victoria: Eligible full-time international undergraduates can get 50% off longer myki passes with the International Student Travel Pass (formerly iUSEpass).
- New South Wales: Most international tertiary students cannot get concession Opal fares, so budget for full fares.
Students who live close to campus, cycle, or use bikeshare can spend much less. See our state-by-state transport guide.
Health Insurance (OSHC)
All international students must keep Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for their whole stay, as a condition of their student visa. In 2026, basic single cover from the main providers costs about A$620 to A$810 a year (roughly A$52 to A$67 a month). Prices vary by provider and start date, so compare options before you buy.
Personal Care, Leisure and Study Supplies
Living Expenses and Your Student Visa
When you apply for a Student visa (subclass 500), you must show you have enough money for your tuition, travel, and living costs. The 12-month living cost amounts are:
Note: The Student visa application fee rose to A$2,500 for applications lodged from July 1, 2026. Check the Department of Home Affairs for the latest fees and financial requirements before you apply.
Working While You Study
International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during official course breaks. Australia's national minimum wage is A$26.44 an hour from July 1, 2026. Working 24 hours a week at that rate earns about A$2,750 a month before tax, which can cover a good share of your living costs. You still need to show your full visa funds before you arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most international students spend about A$2,300 to A$5,000 a month, excluding tuition, depending on their city, lifestyle, and housing.
You must show A$29,710 for 12 months of living costs, plus your tuition and travel. Extra amounts apply if a partner or children come with you.
The Student visa (subclass 500) application fee is A$2,500 for applications lodged from July 1, 2026.
Regional cities and towns are usually the most affordable. Among major cities, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth tend to cost less than Sydney and Melbourne, especially for housing. Brisbane's 50-cent public transport fares also help.
You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods. At the national minimum wage of A$26.44 an hour, 24 hours a week earns about A$2,750 a month before tax.
Australia is a mid-to-high cost destination, but smart choices about your city, housing, and food can make a big difference. Build a realistic budget, use student discounts, and plan for your visa funds early so you can focus on your studies.
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