Living and education costs in Australia:

Being aware of the average cost of living in Australia is a crucial aspect of your financial planning. International students should take note that tuition fees differ based on the city and program of study they choose.

Although the cost of living in Australia for students can be high, the country offers a great quality of life and some of the highest salaries in the world. International students can maintain a reasonable standard of living while pursuing their studies due to decent wages. From 1 July 2022, the national minimum wage is $21.38 per hour, with many casual jobs paying even more. However, it's important to note that costs and wages vary by city, with major cities being more expensive. International students with a visa can legally work 40 hours every two weeks during their course and full-time during breaks to help cover their living and school expenses.

The cost of studying in Australia can be significant and depends on the provider and level of education. Studying a language abroad can be an excellent opportunity to improve your skills and gain valuable experiences. The cost of language courses may vary, but there are plenty of options available to suit different budgets and preferences. Depending on the school and English level, you can find courses such as General English or Exam Preparation Course with fees ranging from $180 to $ 430 per week.

The good news is that the starting cost of studying overseas on the Vocational level is just AU$ 5,000 per year, making it an affordable and worthwhile investment in your education and personal growth.

Accommodation prices also vary widely by state and city, with Adelaide or Hobart being relatively affordable compared to Sydney or Melbourne. There are several housing options available to you depending on your budget as a student. These include hostels, student-share accommodations, student houses, private accommodations, and university accommodations, among others. In addition, you can as well rent a student room or a homestay arrangement where you live with an Australian family who will provide you with meals as part of the rental agreement. The rental costs vary depending on the city on the city you choose to live in and may range from AU$180-350 per week per person. After you choose your preferred location for your Australian adventure, we can assist you in finding suitable accommodation. If you can't decide what type of accommodation would suit you best, you could consider staying in a hostel or Airbnb for the first month of your time in Australia.

We have listed the best sites for you to start seeing the best options for your budget:

Gumtree www.gumtree.com.au
Real estate www.realestate.com.au
Flatmates www.flatmates.com.au
2stay www.2stay.com.au
Domain www.domain.com.au
Airbnb www.airbnb.com.au

Basic living expenses, including food and transportation, are assumed to be between AU$ 70 and AU$ 250 per week, with food costs being similar in most cities.

If you're an international student planning to study in Australia, it's good to know that the Department of Home Affairs requires you to have enough funds to cover your living expenses. To give you an idea, the recommended amount is currently $21,041 per year (or $1,754 per month) for a single person, excluding tuition fees or other expenses. It's worth noting that this figure is based on the cost of living in 2019, so it's always best to budget a little extra just to be safe.

Working part-time during your studies can be a fantastic way to cover your living expenses while also opening up exciting opportunities to make new connections and expand your network. Having relevant skills and experience in high-demand industries such as healthcare, IT, engineering, and hospitality can definitely increase the chances of finding a job.

It is worth noting that Australian employers tend to value experience over diplomas and certificates, and they usually require references from past employers.

There are some common conditions shared across all student visas that individuals must follow to keep their visas valid. These conditions include:

You can only legally work up to 40 hours a fortnight*
All course requirements must be met
Students must maintain adequate health insurance

Some of the popular business sectors that employ overseas students in Australia include: hospitality (Waitress/Waite,

barista, bartender), retail assistant, tourism (hotels and motels), cleaning, construction, sales, administration, farm work (fruit picking)

To work in Australia, you will require a Valid visa, bank account, a Tax File Number (TFN), Superannuation Account, and a resume written in English.

While the job options listed above are popular for international students, there are plenty of other job opportunities available that align with your skills and interests. The best way to begin your job search is to start exploring different options. To get you started, here are some popular job sites in Australia:

Seek
Gumtree
LinkedIn
CareerOne
Harvest Jobs

SYDNEY

Sydney, oh Sydney! What a beautiful and lively city it is! Situated on the east coast of Australia, Sydney is the largest city in the country and is known for its stunning harbor, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culture.

The city's most famous attraction is the Sydney Opera House, a unique and breathtaking piece of architecture that attracts millions of visitors every year. Another must-see landmark is the Sydney Harbour Bridge, which offers breathtaking views of the city and harbor.

Sydney is also home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world, such as Bondi Beach and Manly Beach. Whether you're into surfing, sunbathing, or just taking in the sights, there's a beach in Sydney that's perfect for you.

The city also has a thriving food scene, with a wide range of restaurants and cafes serving up everything from classic Australian cuisine to international dishes. You can also find plenty of shopping opportunities, from large malls to smaller boutiques, and a lively nightlife scene.

Whether you're an international student or just visiting, Sydney is a city that is sure to leave a lasting impression. It truly has something for everyone!

MELBOURNE

Melbourne is a city that never ceases to amaze. This vibrant and dynamic metropolis is the cultural and artistic hub of Australia, with a seemingly endless array of exciting things to see and do.

With its stunning architecture, bustling laneways, and world-renowned coffee culture, Melbourne is a feast for the senses. The city is home to a thriving arts and culture scene, with a range of museums, galleries, and theaters that showcase both local and international talent.

For sports fans, Melbourne is a mecca, with events like the Australian Open, Melbourne Cup, and Formula One Grand Prix drawing crowds from all over the world. For those who prefer the great outdoors, there are plenty of parks and gardens to explore, as well as the famous Great Ocean Road, which offers some of the most stunning coastal scenery in Australia.

So whether you're looking for culture, cuisine, sports, or nature, Melbourne has something to offer everyone. It's a city that will capture your heart and leave you wanting more.

PERTH

Perth is the capital city of Western Australia and a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. With a population of over 2 million people, Perth is known for its stunning beaches, diverse culture, and bustling city life.

The city is also one of the most isolated cities in the world, being closer to Singapore than to Australia's own capital, Canberra. The time zone in Western Australia and Perth is GMT +8.

The city boasts a thriving arts and entertainment scene, as well as a growing food and drink culture. From its bustling city center to its scenic suburbs, Perth has something to offer everyone.

Overall, Perth is a stunning city that offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty.

Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing beach holiday, you're sure to be charmed by this amazing city.

So why not come and discover all that this amazing city has to offer?

The Gold Coast is a coastal city located in the Australian state of Queensland, approximately 66 kilometers south of the state capital, Brisbane. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, theme parks, and nightlife.

The Gold Coast stretches 57 kilometers of coastline and includes suburbs such as Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, Burleigh Heads, and Coolangatta. The area is home to many popular attractions, including the iconic theme parks Dreamworld, Sea World, and Movie World, as well as the beautiful natural scenery of the Gold Coast hinterland.

The Gold Coast is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to tourists and locals alike. The city is a popular destination for students, with a number of universities and colleges located in the area.

Overall, the Gold Coast is a vibrant and exciting destination, offering something for everyone, from sun, sand, and surf to theme parks, nightlife, and sporting events.

GOLD COAST

BRISBANE

Brisban called also "Brissy" is a vibrant and lively city and the capital city of the state of Queensland, located on the east coast of Australia. It sits on the banks of the Brisbane River and is surrounded by natural beauty, including beaches, mountains, and rainforests. Known for its warm weather, friendly people, and beautiful natural surroundings.

Brisbane boasts a rich history as one of the oldest cities in Australia, with the central business district situated on the site of a significant European settlement. The settlement was established on a stunning peninsula on the banks of the Brisbane River, which adds to the city's charm and beauty

The city has a vibrant and diverse culture, with a range of arts and cultural events happening throughout the year. From music festivals to art exhibitions, there's always something going on in Brisbane that students can enjoy.

Adelaide is a charming city located in South Australia that offers visitors a unique and laid-back experience. It is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful parks, and thriving arts and culture scene.

For nature lovers, Adelaide is a great base for exploring the surrounding countryside, including the stunning Adelaide Hills and the famous Kangaroo Island.

One of the best things about Adelaide is its perfect size - not too big, not too small. Whether you're looking for the beaches, the wine regions of the Adelaide Hills, the bustling city center, or quiet suburban neighborhoods, you're never too far away. In fact, Adelaide is often referred to as the "20-minute city", as you can get almost anywhere in just 20 minutes.

But Adelaide isn't just convenient - it also offers plenty of opportunities for personal and professional growth. With plentiful job opportunities, great schools, and top-class hospitals, it's no wonder why Adelaide consistently ranks as one of the world's most liveable cities.

ADELAIDE

DARWIN

Darwin is the capital city of the Northern Territory of Australia and is located on the northern coast of the country. It is the largest city in the Northern Territory and has a population of approximately 150,000 people. Darwin is a unique and fascinating city, with a rich history and diverse culture.

One of the most notable features of Darwin is their proximity to Asia. The city is closer to the Indonesian capital of Jakarta than it is to the Australian cities of Sydney or Melbourne. As a result, Darwin has a strong Asian influence and a large number of people from Asian countries call the city home.

Darwin is also known for its natural beauty, with numerous parks, gardens, and nature reserves located within the city and surrounding areas. One of the most popular natural attractions in Darwin is the Kakadu National Park, which is located about 150 kilometers east of the city. This park is home to a vast array of wildlife, including crocodiles, kangaroos, and wallabies, and is a popular destination for nature lovers.

Whether you are interested in nature, culture, history, or just want to experience the laid-back Australian lifestyle, Darwin is definitely worth a visit.

Hobart is the capital city of the Australian island state of Tasmania. It is located in the southeastern part of the island and has a population of around 240,000 people, making it the second-largest city in Tasmania after Launceston.

Hobart is known for its stunning natural beauty, with its location on the foothills of Mount Wellington and its proximity to the Tasmanian wilderness. The city is surrounded by water, with the River Derwent flowing through the city and the picturesque Hobart harbor providing a stunning backdrop.

Hobart is also known for its vibrant food and wine scene, with numerous restaurants, cafes, and wineries showcasing the best of Tasmania's produce. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, artisanal cheeses, and locally produced wines and spirits.

Visitors can explore the nearby Mount Wellington, take a tour of the Tasmanian Devil Conservation Park, or hike the famous Overland Track in the Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park.

In summary, Hobart is a charming and picturesque city and it is a gateway to the stunning Tasmanian wilderness.

HOBART

CANBERRA

Canberra, the capital city of Australia, is a fascinating and vibrant place that seamlessly blends modern architecture and design with rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural landscapes.

Nestled in the heart of the Australian Capital Territory, Canberra is a city that exudes elegance and sophistication. Its wide, tree-lined avenues are home to a myriad of museums, galleries, and cultural institutions that showcase Australia's rich history and diverse cultural heritage.

Perhaps the most fascinating thing about Canberra, however, is the way it seamlessly blends tradition and innovation.

The city's cultural institutions and landmarks are steeped in history, yet they are constantly evolving to reflect the changing face of modern Australia. From the cutting-edge exhibits at the National Gallery of Australia to the innovative displays at the National Portrait Gallery, Canberra is a city that is always on the cutting edge of culture

All in all, Canberra is a city that is as diverse and fascinating as the country it represents. Whether you're interested in history, culture, nature, or simply the beauty of modern design, you're sure to find something to love in this incredible Australian city.