Planning to study in Australia as an Indian student? Along with tuition fees, understanding the cost of living in Australia is essential to budgeting for your international education. Australia is home to some of the world’s best universities and offers a high standard of living, but it’s also important to prepare for your daily and monthly expenses. This guide provides a complete breakdown of living costs for Indian students in Australia, covering accommodation, food, transport, health insurance, and more.

Whether you're moving to Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, or Adelaide, this guide will help you plan ahead with clarity and confidence.

Why Study in Australia?

Australia has become a top destination for Indian students due to its high-quality education, multicultural society, and post-study work opportunities. Thousands of Indian students choose to study in Australia each year because:

• Australia is home to globally ranked universities like the University of Melbourne, Australian National University, and University of Sydney.

• Degrees from Australian universities are internationally recognized.

• The country offers a strong student support system and a safe environment.

• Part-time work options and Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP) add to career potential.

However, to make the most of your educational journey, you must be financially prepared — and that starts with understanding the cost of study in Australia and living expenses.

Universities in Australia for Indian Students

Before diving into living costs, here’s a quick list of some of the top universities in Australia that are popular among Indian students:

• University of Melbourne

• University of Sydney

• University of Queensland

• Australian National University

• Monash University

• University of New South Wales (UNSW)

• University of Adelaide

• RMIT University

• Deakin University

• Macquarie University

These universities offer a variety of programs including business, engineering, medicine, computer science, and more. Tuition fees vary by program, which contributes to the overall cost of study in Australia.

Tuition Fees in Australia: What Indian Students Should Expect

When planning to study in Australia, tuition fees form a significant part of your overall expenses. The cost varies based on the program level, university, and field of study. On average, undergraduate degrees cost between AUD 20,000 to 45,000 per year (₹11 – ₹25 lakh), while postgraduate degrees range from AUD 22,000 to 50,000 (₹12 – ₹28 lakh). Vocational training programs are more affordable, starting at AUD 4,000 (₹2.2 lakh), and PhD programs typically fall between AUD 18,000 to 42,000 (₹10 – ₹23 lakh) annually.

It’s important to note that tuition fees may differ by institution, and many universities in Australia offer scholarships for Indian students, which can help reduce the cost of study in Australia significantly.

Monthly Cost of Living in Australia for Indian Students

In addition to tuition, you’ll need to cover living expenses, which include housing, food, travel, and daily necessities.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of monthly expenses:

1. Accommodation: AUD 800 – 1,500 /month

Options include:

• On-campus student housing

• Off-campus shared apartments

• Homestay with local families

Tips:

• Sharing accommodations with other students significantly reduces costs.

• Cities like Melbourne and Sydney are more expensive than smaller cities like Adelaide or Hobart.

2. Food and Groceries: AUD 300 – 600 /month

• Cooking at home is more economical than eating out.

• Grocery stores like Woolworths, Coles, and Aldi offer affordable options.

• A simple meal outside may cost around AUD 10 – 20.

3. Transportation: AUD 100 – 200 /month

• Students often receive discounts on public transport passes.

• Most cities have well-connected trains, buses, and trams.

• Some universities in Australia provide free shuttle services around campus.

4. Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet): AUD 150 – 250 /month

• These costs are generally shared among roommates.

• Internet packages cost around AUD 60/month.

5. Mobile Phone & Data: AUD 30 – 50 /month

• Prepaid SIM cards from providers like Vodafone, Telstra, and Optus are easily available.

• Student discounts may apply.

6. Health Insurance (OSHC): AUD 500 – 700 /year

All Indian students are required to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of their stay. This cost is separate from other health or travel insurance.

7. Personal & Miscellaneous Expenses: AUD 150 – 300 /month

• Clothing, toiletries, leisure, streaming subscriptions, and other items fall under this category.

• Occasional travel or social outings may add to your expenses.

How Indian Students Can Manage Living Costs

Studying abroad is a big investment, but with smart planning, the cost of living in Australia can be manageable. Here are a few ways Indian students can cut down on expenses:

• Apply for university or government scholarships.

• Choose budget-friendly cities like Adelaide, Hobart, or Perth.

• Live in shared accommodations.

• Cook your own meals.

• Use student transport concessions.

• Work part-time (up to 48 hours per fortnight during sessions).

Part-Time Work Opportunities for Indian Students

The Australian government allows international students to work part-time while studying. This not only helps with finances but also provides local experience.

• Limit: 48 hours per fortnight during term

• Pay Rate: Minimum wage is approx. AUD 23/hour (2025)

• Popular Jobs: Retail, cafes, admin, customer service, delivery, tutoring

Post-Graduation Work Rights (PGWP Equivalent)

After completing your degree, you may qualify for the Post-Study Work Visa (subclass 485). This allows you to work in Australia for 2–4 years depending on your qualification level.

This is a huge benefit and helps you recover part of your investment in the cost of study in Australia.

Final Thoughts

While the cost of living in Australia for Indian students may seem high initially, it is balanced by the quality of education, safety, work opportunities, and career prospects that Australia offers. When you combine tuition fees, daily expenses, and optional travel, your total annual cost can range from AUD 35,000 to 60,000 depending on your lifestyle and city.

By planning ahead, applying for scholarships, and working part-time, you can manage your finances effectively and enjoy a fulfilling experience as an international student.