Want to live an Aussie life, but confused about the living cost? Then, it is your time to pack your bags and plan your trip to Kangaroo Land.
Australia is one of the top destinations for Indian students aspiring to study abroad.
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As per the statistics from the Department of Education of Australia, 7,46,080 international students reached the country between January and September 2023. This is a huge 31% increase from last year.
Check out the latest updates in Australia:
- The new migration policy of Australia has renewed visa policies to increase the minimum score requirements for a Graduate visa from an IELTS band score of 6.0 to 6.5 and the score requirement for a Student visa from 6.0 to 5.5.
- The government is introducing a new skills-in-demand visa, replacing the existing temporary skill shortage visa.
- Under the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA) Indian students can remain in the country under their Temporary Graduate Visa for the following durations:
– Two years for a Bachelor’s
-Three years for Master’s
-Four years for a PhD
Despite its popularity, it is also important to know that living in Australia is a little pricey. According to the World Population Review, Australia is the 10th most expensive country to live in.
However, the cost of living in Australia is lower than that of the United States, Luxembourg, Ireland and Singapore. The cost of studying in Australia is also comparatively lower than in the US.
Although Australia is home to some of the most costly cities in the world, it also hosts some of the most affordable destinations. So, it is important to plan your trip, considering all the factors of living in the country.
We have drafted a comprehensive guide for your study-in-Australia plan, tracking all the costs of living in the country.
An Overview of Cost of Living in Australia for Indian Students
Being international students living in Australia there are numerous expenses that you need to pay. The average monthly cost of living in Australia is INR 97,563 excluding the rent. It includes a variety of daily expenses such as food, medical and transportation.
We have given a breakdown of the monthly living costs in Australia. Check out the major elements that contribute to your living cost.
Check out the expenses below:
| Factors | Monthly Cost in INR | Monthly Cost in A$ |
| Rent | INR 1.1-1.3 Lakh | A$ 2000 |
| Food & Groceries | INR 22,000 | A$ 400 |
| Transportation | INR 9,000-9,400 | A$ 170 |
| Phone and Internet Services | INR 7,300 | A$132 |
| Other Basic Utilities | INR 18,000 | A$ 335 |
The given numbers are average figures and are given under a conversion rate of A$/INR: 1/55.14. For the most accurate rates, we recommend that you convert the given figures under the current conversion rate.
The average living cost can vary depending on your location and lifestyle. The given monthly cost for transportation denotes the expense of monthly passes in public vehicles. This can further escalate for private transportation modes.
The basic utilities given cover your expenses for electricity, heating, cooling, water and garbage.
Cost of Studying in Australia for International Students
On average, the cost of studying in Australia is cheaper than the cost of studying in the US. However, your expenses can vary depending on the university or college you study in.
The average annual tuition fee for international students can also vary for bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral courses. It can further change based on the program you are selecting.
For example, high-value courses such as veterinary and medical degrees can cost more than courses such as computer science or accounting.
We have compiled the average annual tuition fee in Australia for each course.
Check out the annual tuition fee in Australia:
| Course | Annual Tuition Fee in INR | Annual Tuition Fee in A$ |
| Bachelor’s Degree | INR 11- 24 Lakh | A$20,000 – A$45,000 |
| Master’s Degree | INR 12 – INR 27 Lakh | A$22,000 – A$50,000 |
| Doctoral Degree | INR 11 – INR 23 Lakh | A$20,000 – A$42,000 |
The given numbers are average figures and are given under a conversion rate of A$/INR: 1/55.14. For the most accurate rates, we recommend that you convert the given figures under the current conversion rate.
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Cheapest Universities in Australia for Indian Students
There are several factors to consider while you are choosing your university or college for your higher education. From the quality of education, exposure and international student ratio there are factors reasons to consider.
It is your priorities that determine which is the best university for you. If you are looking for a university with lesser expense, then here is a list of 5 cheapest universities in Australia.
We have compiled a list of Australian universities with lower tuition fees compared to other universities and colleges in the country. We have also included their average annual tuition fee for your reference.
Check out the list of cheapest universities below:
| University | Annual Tuition Fee in INR | Annual Tuition Fee in A$ |
| University of Southern Queensland | INR 20- 25 Lakh | A$ 24,000-30,000 |
| Charles Sturt University | INR 20-28 Lakh | A$ 24,000- 34,000 |
| Victoria University | INR 15-17 Lakh | A$ 18,000 – 20,000 |
| University of the Sunshine Coast | INR 19-21 Lakh | A$ 23,00-27,000 |
| Federation University Australia | INR 20-25 Lakh | A$ 25,000-30,000 |
The given numbers are average figures and are given under a conversion rate of A$/INR: 1/55.14. For the most accurate rates, we recommend that you convert the given figures under the current conversion rate.
Cost of Living in Australia: City List
According to Numbeo, the average cost of living in Australia is 234% higher than in India.
But the living cost is a highly variable factor. Your cost of living can vary from cities to towns and countryside.
While Australia is home to some of the most expensive cities in the world such as Sydney and Melbourne, it also has cities like Hobart and Townsville where the living cost is really low. If you plan to shift from Sydney to Gold Coast, your rent drops by 40%.
Your choice of city can significantly impact your living costs. So it is highly important to decide your location, considering all these factors. We have compiled a list of the most expensive and cheapest cities in Australia. This can help you figure out your destination better.
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Top 5 Expensive Cities in Australia
Given below is the list of the most expensive cities in Australia. The expenses are calculated based on their average cost of accommodation, food, transportation and other utilities.
Check out the table below:
| City | Monthly Cost in INR | Monthly Cost in A$ |
| Sydney | INR 2.0 – 2.1 Lakh | A$ 2,623 |
| Melbourne | INR 1.97 – 2.0 Lakh | A$ 2,367 |
| Brisbane | INR 1.97 – 2.0 Lakh | A$ 2,363 |
| Perth | INR 1.93 – 2.0 Lakh | A$ 2,324 |
| Canberra | INR 1.93 – 2.0 Lakh | A$ 2,321 |
The given numbers are average figures and are given under a conversion rate of A$/INR: 1/55.14. For the most accurate rates, we recommend that you convert the given figures under the current conversion rate.
Top 5 Cheapest Cities in Australia
Apart from the expensive cities like Melbourne and Brisbane, Australia also accommodates cheap cities such as Australia Bendigo and Wagga Wagga. This diversity makes it a reliable option for your study-abroad destination. The given figures are a sum of all major monthly expenses.
Check out the table below:
| City | Monthly Cost in INR | Monthly Cost in A$ |
| Bendigo | INR 1 Lakh | A$ 1,315 |
| Wagga Wagga | INR 1.13 Lakh | A$ 1,361 |
| Bunbury | INR 1.14 Lakh | A$ 1,372 |
| Shepparton | INR 1.15 Lakh | A$ 1,391 |
| Rockhampton | INR 1.16 Lakh | A$ 1,392 |
The given numbers are average figures and are given under a conversion rate of A$/INR: 1/55.14. For the most accurate rates, we recommend that you convert the given figures under the current conversion rate.
How to Reduce Your Living Costs in Australia?
The cost of living in foreign countries is a major concern for international students. It is important to find ways to cut down your daily expenses.
Being students you cannot opt for a remote countryside since most top universities and job opportunities are available in top cities. So, the only alternative you have is to replace your costly lifestyle with a more cost-friendly living habit. Smart budgeting, strategic decision-making and a little bit of frugal habits can help you achieve this.
We have compiled a list of practices that would help you to reduce your living costs while living in Canada.
Check out the tips below:
- Accommodation: To reduce your expenses on accommodation you can consider sharing rooms. Splitting your rent with more people will help you to reduce your monthly room rent. Look for a flat outside the city centre, this can reduce the rent rates. Look for more affordable neighbourhoods or suburbs.
- Transportation: Using public transport instead of private cars or bikes can cut down your expenses. You can also consider carpool or rideshares. Cycling or walking for shorter distances is also recommended.
- Utilities: Be mindful of your energy usage. Try to reduce your electricity bill by reducing your consumption. Compare and opt for the most cost-friendly deals for your internet services, mobile plans and other basic utilities.
- Groceries and Meals: Try to cook your meals instead of depending on outside food. Limit your habits of dining out or ordering takeouts. Plan your food early and shop accordingly. This will help you to avoid impulsive buying at the last moment.
- Healthcare: You can depend on Australia’s Medicare or public health facilities rather than private healthcare facilities. Try to use the bulk-billing services for medical appointments. Compare and choose the most cost-effective health insurance plans.
- Entertainment and Recreation: While relaxing and having some leisure is important, try to reduce your cost. You can explore free and less expensive entertainment such as community events or visit public parks. Look for discounts on movie tickets, gym memberships and other subscriptions. Avoid overspending on non-essential items.
- Education: Opting for public universities instead of private universities will help you to reduce your tuition fees. You can also opt for public libraries and free online learning resources. Find scholarships available for your course or university to fund your expenses. You can buy used textbooks or opt for rental services.
Financial management is crucial while studying in a foreign country. Create a budget for your monthly expenses. Try to review your expenses at the end of every month. This will help you to identify where you are overspending and will help you fix it. This will eventually help you to achieve long-term financial stability.
Remember that every individual’s lifestyle and financial situation is different. So it is important for you to tailor the given tips according to your circumstances.
Sum Up
Despite the higher cost of living in Australia, thousands of students go to the country every year for their higher education.
Australia’s increased quality of education is one of the top reasons for this. In addition, it also offers a better standard of living, making it a great choice for your higher studies.
Draft your study-abroad plan in Australia at minimum cost. While opting for a city with lower living expenses, make sure you do not miss out on good institutions. If you find it difficult to draft your plan on your own, feel free to reach out to Leap’s study-abroad experts.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. Is Australia more expensive than the United States?
A. No, on average the living cost of the United States is higher than the cost of living in Australia. According to the World Population Review, Australia is only the tenth most expensive country to live in. Other countries that rank above Australia are Luxembourg, Ireland and Singapore.
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Q. What is the average cost of living in Australia?
A. The average cost of living in Australia is INR 97,500 per month, excluding the rent. This includes a variety of other daily expenses such as food, medical and transportation. The average rent in Australia is INR 1.2- 1.1.3 Lakh inside the city centre and INR 1.1-1.2 outside the city.
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Q. Is Australia cheaper than Canada?
A. No, in general, the average cost of living in Canada is lower than the cost of living in Australia. The average living cost in Canada is INR 87,000 whereas the average monthly living expense in Australia is INR 97,500. The given amounts exclude the rent. However, the average rent in both Australia and Canada remains between 1.2-1.3 Lakhs.
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Q. How much does it cost to study in Australia?
A. The average living expense in Australia excluding the rent is INR 97,500. In addition to this, students will have to pay their monthly rent of around INR 1.1-1.2 Lakhs. Moreover, students will have to pay an average tuition fee of 15-20 Lakhs every year.
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Q. What is the average tuition fee in Australia?
A. Your annual tuition fee to study in Australia can vary depending on your university and course. On average, the annual tuition fees for each course are below:
– Bachelor’s Degree – INR 11- 24 Lakh
– Master’s Degree – INR 12 – INR 27 Lakh
– Doctoral Degree – INR 11 – INR 23 Lakh -
Q. How much does it cost Indian students to live in Australia?
A. On average, the cost of living in Australia is INR 97,500, excluding the rent. The average tuition fee can range between 15 – 20 Lakhs per annum. In addition to this, students will have to bear other basic cost of living in Australia such as monthly rent, medical expenses, and other tuition expenses.
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Q. What are the cheapest cities to live in Australia?
A. Some of the cheapest cities and their average cost of living in Australia are:
– Sydney – INR 2.0 – 2.1 Lakh
– Melbourne – INR 1.97 – 2.0 Lakh
– Brisbane – INR 1.97 – 2.0 Lakh
– Perth – INR 1.93 – 2.0 Lakh -
Q. Is Sydney a good option for international students in Australia?
A. Despite being the most expensive Australian city, Sydney is still one of the top cities opted for by international students. It ranks #7 in the QS Best Student Cities ranking. A major reason is that it is home to some of the internationally acclaimed universities. This includes the University of Sydney, the University of New South Wales (UNSW) and the University of Technology, Sydney (UTS).
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Q. How can I reduce my cost of living in Australia?
A. You can reduce your cost of living in Australia through strategic planning. Opting for more accommodation outside the city limits and opting for public transportation facilities are some good practices you can do to reduce your monthly expenses. In addition, try to reduce your dependence on outside food and other entertainment that cost high.
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Q. Which is the cheapest city in Australia?
A. Some of the cheapest cities with a lower cost of living in Australia are:
– Bendigo – INR 1 Lakh
– Wagga Wagga – INR 1.13 Lakh
– Bunbury – INR 1.14 Lakh
– Shepparton – INR 1.15 Lakh
– Rockhampton – INR 1.16 Lakh -
Q. What is the average rent in Australia?
A. The average rent in Australia is INR 1.2- 1.1.3 Lakh inside the city centre and INR 1.1-1.2 outside the city. In addition to your rent, the average cost of living in Australia is around INR 97,500 per month. This includes a variety of other daily expenses such as food, medical and transportation.
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Q. How much does it cost to complete a master’s in Australia?
A. The average tuition fee for a master’s course in Australia is INR 12 – INR 27 Lakh for each year. Your tuition can vary depending on your university or college and the course you opt for. In addition to your tuition fee, you will also have to bear other expenses such as enrollment fees, admission fees, practical fees and exam fees.
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