The Ultimate Living Guide to Canberra for Pakistani Students: Cost, Jobs, Lifestyle

Thinking about studying or living in Canberra? Let’s explore everything you need to know about living, studying, and working there!

Whether it’s a visit to a GP (General Practitioner), finding mental health support, or accessing student wellbeing centres on campus, Australia has systems in place to ensure your safety and support.

Table of Contents:

• Why study & live in Canberra, Australia?

• Choosing a suburb in Canberra

• Education in Canberra

• Housing and accommodation

• Cost of living in Canberra

• Job market and employment

• Healthcare services

• Outdoor activities

• FAQs

Why study & live in Canberra, Australia?

Canberra, Australia’s capital city, is known for its clean environment, beautiful parks and vibrant culture. With a population of around 450,000 people, it’s a modern city that offers a relaxed lifestyle away from the hustle of bigger cities like Sydney and Melbourne.

Canberra attracts students and professionals alike with its strong educational institutions, peaceful neighborhoods, and plenty of opportunities.

Choosing a suburb in Canberra

When picking a place to live in Canberra, it’s important to consider factors such as affordability, safety and lifestyle. Popular suburbs for students include:

• Belconnen: Affordable and close to the University of Canberra, with lots of shopping and dining options.

• Woden: Offers a quieter atmosphere, safe streets, and convenient access to public transport.

• Gungahlin: A growing area with modern housing and good community facilities.

• City Centre (Civic): Perfect if you prefer to be in the heart of things, close to entertainment and nightlife, though rents can be higher.

Each suburb has its own vibe, so choose what fits your lifestyle and budget best. 

Education in Canberra

Canberra is home to top universities like the Australian National University (ANU) and the University of Canberra (UC).

These universities offer a wide range of courses and research opportunities. The city also boasts numerous language schools and Technical and Further Education Institutions (TAFE), making it an ideal destination for international students seeking to study in a supportive environment.

Housing and Accommodation

Finding a place to stay in Canberra is straightforward with many available options:

• Rental Process: Usually, you need to submit an application with proof of income and references. Our list of trusted partners can help you explore available rental options.

• Costs: Rent varies by suburb, with one-bedroom apartments ranging from AUD 450 to AUD 550 per week. Sharing a house or apartment can help reduce costs.

• Student Housing: Many universities offer on-campus accommodation or have partnerships with nearby student residences, providing safe and convenient living spaces.

Cost of living in Canberra

Here’s a quick look at typical expenses:

Job market and employment

Canberra’s job market is strong, especially in these industries:

• Government and public administration

• Education and research

• Healthcare and social services

• Information technology and communications

For job hunting, explore online job platforms and your university’s job board. Students can often find part-time opportunities in retail, hospitality, administration, and other flexible roles that fit around study schedules.

Healthcare services

Canberra offers excellent healthcare:

• Major hospitals include Canberra Hospital and Calvary Public Hospital.

• International students are required to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which helps with medical costs during their stay.

Outdoor activities

Canberra is surrounded by nature, offering plenty of outdoor fun:

• Walk or bike around Lake Burley Griffin.

• Explore Namadgi National Park for hiking and wildlife.

• Visit the Australian National Botanic Gardens.

• Enjoy weekend markets and outdoor festivals.

FAQs

What is the average cost of living in Canberra?

Students in Canberra typically spend between AUD 1,600 and 2,200 each month, which usually covers rent, meals, transport, and everyday costs.

Which are the best suburbs to live in Canberra?

Popular choices include Belconnen, Civic, Woden, Gungahlin, Kingston, and Manuka, each offering a mix of affordability, safety and lifestyle options.

Let’s walk you through everything you need to know to live and study in this amazing city. Book your FREE appointment with an IDP counsellor today and start your journey with expert guidance!