Studying in Australia is a dream come true for thousands of students worldwide. With its world-class universities, safe environment, and multicultural society, Australia offers an excellent education and lifestyle. However, many international students quickly realize that living expenses in Australia can be quite high—especially in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
To help you manage your finances wisely, this guide provides practical tips to reduce your cost of living in Australia without compromising your student experience.
1. Choose Affordable Accommodation
Accommodation is one of the biggest expenses for international students. Depending on your location, rent can range from AUD 180 to AUD 400 per week.
Tips to save:
- Share a flat or house: Living with other students can significantly reduce rent and utility costs.
- Look for student housing: Many universities offer on-campus or nearby student accommodation at discounted rates.
- Stay outside the city centre: Suburbs offer cheaper rent and better value for money, with good public transport connections.
Example:
If you study in Sydney, consider suburbs like Parramatta or Strathfield instead of the city centre to save up to AUD 100 weekly on rent.
2. Cook Your Own Meals
Eating out frequently can quickly drain your budget. Cooking your own meals not only saves money but also ensures you eat healthier.
How to cut costs:
- Shop at local markets like ALDI, Coles, or Woolworths for affordable groceries.
- Buy in bulk and split costs with roommates.
- Prepare meals in batches and freeze portions for busy days.
On average, cooking at home can reduce your weekly food expense to AUD 60–80, compared to AUD 150 or more if eating out regularly.
3. Use Student Discounts Everywhere
One of the easiest ways to manage the cost of living in Australia is by taking full advantage of student discounts.
Where to use them:
- Public transport: Students often get discounted travel cards or concession fares.
- Cinemas, restaurants, and cafes: Many offer 10–20% off for students.
- Retail stores and online platforms: Websites like UNiDAYS or Student Beans provide discounts on tech, clothing, and entertainment.
Always carry your student ID card—it can save you hundreds of dollars over time.
4. Use Public Transport or Cycle
Transportation is another major contributor to living expenses in Australia.
Smart travel tips:
- Get a travel card: Most states offer discounted student passes.
- Use weekly or monthly passes: They’re cheaper than paying for daily rides.
- Consider cycling: Many Australian cities have safe bike lanes and affordable bike rentals.
For example, cycling or walking to your university can save up to AUD 30–50 per week on transport costs.
5. Find Part-Time Work
Australia allows international students to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods. Working part-time not only helps cover your expenses but also gives you local experience.
Popular part-time jobs:
- Retail assistant
- Barista or waiter
- Tutor or research assistant
- Delivery driver
Wages typically range from AUD 22–30 per hour, depending on your job and location. Combine part-time work with good budgeting to ease your living expenses in Australia.
6. Budget and Track Your Spending
Creating a realistic budget is one of the best ways to control the cost of living in Australia.
Practical steps:
- Use budgeting apps like Pocketbook, MoneyBrilliant, or Mint.
- Set weekly spending limits for essentials such as rent, food, and transport.
- Keep track of small expenses—they often add up quickly.
Pro tip: Save at least 10% of your monthly income for emergencies or unexpected costs.
7. Buy Second-Hand or Recycled Items
When moving to Australia, it’s tempting to buy everything new. But second-hand items can be just as good—and much cheaper.
Where to shop:
- Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, and Op shops (thrift stores) are great for affordable furniture, kitchenware, and bicycles.
- Some universities have student exchange boards where seniors sell used textbooks or essentials at low prices.
By choosing second-hand, you can save hundreds of dollars on setup costs.
8. Cut Down on Utility Bills
If you live in shared housing, utility bills—like electricity, water, and internet—can add up.
How to reduce costs:
- Switch off lights and electronics when not in use.
- Use energy-efficient bulbs and appliances.
- Compare energy providers to find cheaper rates.
- Choose shared internet plans or student bundles for savings.
Average utilities cost around AUD 20–30 per week if managed wisely
9. Stay Healthy and Use Student Healthcare Benefits
Medical costs in Australia can be high. All international students must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which helps pay for medical expenses.
Tips:
- Visit bulk-billing clinics where consultations are covered under OSHC.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle to avoid unnecessary medical costs.
- Check your OSHC provider’s network of approved doctors and clinics.
10. Take Advantage of Free Activities
Living in Australia doesn’t mean spending money to have fun. There are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy.
Ideas include:
- Visiting beaches, national parks, and museums.
- Attending university events and student gatherings.
- Exploring city markets and local festivals.
Enjoying free experiences lets you socialize and relax without affecting your budget.
Final Thoughts
Managing your living expenses in Australia requires planning, discipline, and a bit of creativity. By following these practical tips—choosing affordable housing, cooking your meals, using discounts, and budgeting—you can enjoy life in Australia without financial stress.
Australia offers endless opportunities for learning and growth, and with the right money management strategies, you can make the most of your international student experience while keeping your cost of living in Australia under control.
