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If I choose Australia, how much budget should I consider per year or for two years?

07 Sept 2026 · Answered by Mona Negi · 2 min read
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Your annual budget in Australia can range from roughly AUD 15,000 to 22,000 on a strict, shared living setup, up to AUD 35,000 to 50,000 for a comfortable lifestyle. For two years, plan on AUD 25,000 to 35,000 in savings, since rent alone runs AUD 250 to 450 per week.

Mona Negi
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Your budget for a year or two in Australia depends heavily on your lifestyle choices, especially around accommodation and dining out. A strict, shared living setup costs far less than a comfortable independent lifestyle in a major city like Sydney or Melbourne, so it helps to plan against a realistic range rather than a single number.

Annual And Two Year Budget Ranges

Lifestyle LevelPer Year (AUD)For Two Years (AUD)
Strict, shared living15,000 to 22,00025,000 to 35,000 in savings, since local work can offset the rest
Comfortable, own room or flat35,000 to 50,000+70,000 to 100,000+ if you are not earning locally

Key Cost Factors To Plan Around

  • Accommodation is the biggest line item: expect AUD 250 to 450 or more per week for a room in a shared flat
  • Groceries are moderately priced, but eating out or a casual coffee or meal typically runs AUD 25 to 40
  • Immigration and visa proof of funds requirements often expect a minimum buffer, commonly cited around AUD 5,000 plus your return ticket, so treat that as a floor, not your full budget

My Advice

Build your budget around the shared living range first, then add a buffer of at least 15 to 20 percent for exchange rate swings and unplanned costs like flights home or emergency medical expenses. If you plan to work part time locally, factor that income in only after your first few months, since it takes time to find steady work.

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