Cost of Living and Budgeting Tips for International Students in Australia
You check your bank account after paying rent, and suddenly, your meal plan for the month is air and good vibes.
If you’ve ever Googled ‘scholarships for international students in Australia’ with the same urgency as ‘cheap eats near me,’ you’re in the right place.
Consider this guide your financial saviour.
We will discuss budgeting tips, part-time work opportunities, and scholarships for international students in Australia.
7 Budgeting Tips for International Students in Australia
Learning how to budget wisely can help you cover essential expenses like rent, tuition, and groceries while still leaving room for social activities and unexpected costs. Here are some practical strategies to help you manage your finances effectively while still enjoying your student life in Australia.
1. Create a Budget & Track Your Expenses
List Your Income & Expenses: Start by identifying all your income sources, such as part-time work, scholarships, or financial support from your family. Then, categorize your expenses into:
Fixed expenses: Rent, tuition fees, health insurance, and utility bills. These are recurring costs that must be prioritized.
Variable expenses: Groceries, transport, entertainment, and personal spending. These fluctuate based on your lifestyle.
Tracking your expenses helps you understand where your money goes and prevents overspending.
Prioritise Spending: Once you have a breakdown of your expenses, allocate your budget accordingly. Essential costs should always come first, and any remaining funds can be used for non-essentials like dining out or shopping.
Use Budgeting Tools: There are many free budgeting apps and online tools that can help you track your spending and stick to your financial goals. A simple spreadsheet can also work if you prefer a manual approach.
2. Save on Accommodation
Rent is one of the biggest expenses for international students, but there are ways to reduce this cost.
Consider shared housing. Renting an apartment with other students can significantly lower rent and utility costs.
Look into student accommodations. Universities often provide housing options that are more affordable than private rentals.
Negotiate rental terms. If you're staying long-term, some landlords may offer a slight discount for longer lease agreements.
To make budgeting easier, IDP can help you find budget-friendly accommodation options. Whether you’re looking for university residences, shared apartments, or homestays, our dedicated counselors can assist you in securing a place that suits your budget and lifestyle.
3. Reduce Food Expenses
Groceries and dining out can take up a large portion of your budget, but making small changes can lead to significant savings.
Cook at home. Preparing meals yourself is much cheaper than eating out. Plus, it allows you to eat healthier.
Plan your meals. Meal prepping reduces food waste and helps you avoid last-minute takeout orders.
Bring your lunch to campus. Instead of spending money on food every day, packing meals from home can save you hundreds of dollars over time.
Shop smart. Buy in bulk when possible, compare prices at different supermarkets, and look for discounted items or store-brand alternatives.
4. Cut Down on Transport Costs
Transportation costs can add up quickly, but choosing affordable options can help you save.
Use public transport. Buses, trains, and trams are significantly cheaper than taxis or ride-hailing services.
Apply for student transport discounts. Many Australian cities offer concession cards for students, which reduce fares.
Walk or cycle when possible. If you live near your university, walking or biking is a cost-effective and healthy alternative to public transport.
5. Take Advantage of Student Discounts & Deals
Many businesses offer student discounts, but you have to ask or check if they're available.
Shops and restaurants: Some establishments provide discounts for students upon showing a valid student ID.
Entertainment: Cinemas, museums, and event venues often have student rates.
Fitness options: Consider free workout spaces or discounted student gym passes instead of paid gym memberships.
Buy secondhand. Whether it's textbooks, furniture, or electronics, purchasing secondhand can save you a lot of money.
6. Avoid Debt & Build an Emergency Fund
Having a financial safety net is essential, especially as an international student far from home.
Set aside money for essential bills. Ensure you always have enough to cover rent, tuition, and utilities.
Build an emergency fund. Unexpected costs, such as medical expenses or urgent travel, can arise at any time. Setting aside even a small amount each month can help prevent financial stress.
Avoid unnecessary debt. While credit cards can be useful, relying too much on borrowed money can lead to financial problems. Try to live within your means.
7. Be Smart with Everyday Spending
Small lifestyle adjustments can make a big difference in your overall budget.
Find free or low-cost activities. Instead of spending on expensive outings, explore free events, university clubs, or outdoor activities.
Limit impulse purchases. Before buying something, ask yourself if it's necessary or if you can find a cheaper alternative.
Compare prices before shopping. Whether it's groceries, clothing, or electronics, shopping around for the best deal helps you avoid overspending.
Academic Expenses
You already know that creating a budget, along with making lifestyle adjustments, can help you save more. But before you can actually do your budget plan, it’s important to get an overview of your living and academic expenses.
First, let’s discuss the academic and additional expenses that you’ll have to prioritize.
Tuition Fees and Additional Expenses for International Students in Australia
Your tuition fees will vary depending on your course, university, and level of study. Here’s what to expect:
Typical Tuition Fees in Australia
Undergraduate degrees – $20,000 to $45,000 per year
Postgraduate degrees – $22,000 to $50,000 per year
Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses – $4,000 to $22,000 per year
Need help planning your tuition costs? IDP partners with universities across Australia and can provide personalised financial advice on tuition fees, scholarships, and payment options.
Tuition is your biggest academic expense, but having a scholarship can help lighten the load. Let’s explore your options.
Scholarships for International Students in Australia
Scholarships can make a huge difference in your financial planning, covering part or even all of your tuition fees. They’re offered by universities, the Australian government, and private organisations, each with different eligibility criteria and benefits.
Types of Scholarships Available
University-Specific Scholarships – Many Australian universities offer merit-based or need-based scholarships for international students.
Government Scholarships – Programs like the and the provide funding for eligible students.
Private & Industry Scholarships – Organizations and businesses sometimes fund students in specific fields, such as STEM, healthcare, or research.
How to Research and Apply for Scholarships
Start early – Many scholarships have deadlines months before the academic year begins.
Check eligibility requirements – Some are based on academic merit, financial need, or specific nationalities.
Prepare strong applications – Write compelling personal statements, get recommendation letters, and ensure all your documents are submitted on time.
Apply to multiple scholarships – Increase your chances by applying for several that match your qualifications.
Not sure where to start? IDP can help you find scholarships that fit your profile and guide you through the application process.
Many scholarships close months before the academic year begins, and some are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Don’t miss your chance. Chat with an IDP counselor today about your scholarship options.
Aside from your tuition fee, there are other expenses that you have to factor in when planning your budget. Here are some of them:
Additional Academic Costs
Books and course materials—Textbooks can cost $500 to $1,500 per year. Some courses may require additional tools, software, or lab fees.
Student services fees – Many universities charge an annual Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF), which can be up to $350 per year.
Health Insurance & Medical Expenses
All international students must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which costs around $500 to $700 per year. This covers basic medical expenses, but you may need to budget extra for dental, optical, or specialist treatments.
If you're looking to renew or switch your OSHC provider, IDP can help. Our counselors provide expert guidance to ensure you have the right coverage for your needs, making the process smooth and hassle-free.
Cost of Living
Now, let’s hop on to the cost of living in Australia. This breakdown will give you a clearer picture of where your money will go and help you make informed financial decisions. Below are the average costs of living.
Accommodation Costs
Hostels and guesthouses: $90 to $150 per week
Shared rental: $85 to $215 per week
On campus: $90 to $280 per week
Homestay: $235 to $325 per week
Rental: $165 to $440 per week
The accommodation costs in Australia depend on the city you live in. Sydney is known to be the most expensive city, followed by Melbourne, Perth, Canberra, Brisbane and Adelaide.
Accommodations: Cost Comparison Per City
Sydney & Melbourne – The most expensive cities, with rent averaging $300–$600 per week for a single room.
Brisbane & Perth – More affordable, with shared accommodation starting at $180 per week.
Adelaide – One of the cheapest major cities, with rent as low as $150 per week in shared housing.
Other Living Expenses
Groceries and eating out: $80 to $280 per week
Gas and electricity: $35 to $140 per week
Phone and Internet: $20 to $55 per week
Public transport: $15 to $55 per week
Car (ongoing cost): $150 to $260 per week
Entertainment: $80 to $150 per week
How to Use This Breakdown
Grab a notebook or open your notes app, and list down your current weekly expenses.
Compare them to these estimates. Are you spending more than you expected? If so, highlight areas where you can cut back, such as opting for shared housing, meal prepping, or taking advantage of student discounts.
Part-Time Work Opportunities
Scholarships can help you save on tuition. But they won’t cover your caffeine addiction or that weekend trip you swear is for "study purposes." That’s where a part-time job comes in.
Many international students find work in:
Hospitality – Cafés, restaurants, and bars often hire students as waitstaff, baristas, or kitchen hands.
Retail – Supermarkets, clothing stores, and shopping centers frequently offer casual roles.
Tutoring – If you’re good at a subject, you can tutor school or university students.
Admin & Office Work – Some businesses offer part-time admin roles that fit around study schedules.
Student Visa Work Restrictions
As an international student, you can:
Work up to 48 hours every two weeks during the semester.
Work unlimited hours during scheduled university breaks.
It’s important to check your visa conditions to avoid violations that could affect your stay.
Tax Obligations & Payslips
Before starting work, apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) through the Australian Taxation Office. Your employer will need this to pay you correctly. Keep track of your payslips to ensure you're being paid the legal minimum wage and receiving the right entitlements.
What Is Superannuation?
If you earn over $450 per month before tax, your employer must contribute to superannuation (retirement savings). When you leave Australia, you can apply for a Departing Australia Superannuation Payment (DASP) to claim these funds.
How IDP Can Help You Find a Part-Time Job in Australia
Without proper guidance, you could end up in an underpaid, illegal, part-time job that risks your visa status.
Between visa restrictions, unfamiliar job boards, and understanding workplace rights, it’s easy to feel lost.
IDP simplifies the process by guiding you to the best job search platforms like SEEK, explaining your work limitations under a student visa, and helping you understand tax and payslips.
With the right information and resources, you can confidently find work that fits your schedule and supports your studies. Chat with us today, so you can start your job hunt as early as possible.
Take Control of Your Finances and Study Stress-Free
With a solid budget, smart spending habits, scholarships, and a well-chosen part-time job, you can actually enjoy student life without constantly stressing about your bank balance.
The trick? Plan ahead, track your spending, and grab every money-saving opportunity that comes your way (yes, exploit your student discounts).
And if you’re feeling lost, IDP has your back—from budgeting tips to job search guidance. Chat with an IDP counselor today and take the first step toward smart financial planning and making the most of your time in Australia.