Earning and Spending in Australia

Home / Earning and Spending in Australia

Let’s Understand

Earning & Spending

Australia’s student-friendly visa policies allow international students to work part-time during their studies. This provides an opportunity to gain valuable work experience and supplement living expenses.

The cost of living varies across cities, with Sydney and Melbourne generally having higher expenses. Proper budgeting, choosing affordable accommodation, and using student discounts help ensure a comfortable student life.

Cost of Living

Living Expenses

The Department of Home Affairs requires a minimum cost of living of AUD 21,041 for issuing a student visa. This includes accommodation, dependents, hostels, shared rentals, on-campus housing, home-stay, and return airfare.

Weekly Expenses

Weekly costs include groceries, eating out, utilities, phone and internet, public transport, and entertainment.

Study Expenses

School: AUD 7,800 – AUD 30,000
Vocational Education & Training: AUD 4,000 – AUD 22,000
English Language Studies: ~AUD 300 per week
Undergraduate Degree: AUD 15,000 – AUD 33,000
Postgraduate Degree: AUD 20,000 – AUD 37,000
Doctoral Degree: AUD 14,000 – AUD 37,000

Work Opportunities on Student Visa

International students can work up to 40 hours per fortnight during semesters and full-time during semester breaks.

Australian Industries Offering Part-time Work

Hospitality, agriculture, retail, tourism, tutoring, administration, clerical roles, sales, and telemarketing.

Ways to Find Work

Use online job portals, newspapers, university career services, and recruitment agencies.

Work Rights

All workers in Australia have rights including fair pay, a safe workplace, rest breaks, and protection from unfair dismissal.