Student life in Australia: housing, work, weather and culture
Work and money
48 hours a fortnight during term, unlimited in scheduled breaks, at A$24.95 an hour national minimum wage (July 2025), higher with casual loading. Living costs of A$1,800 to A$2,800 a month depending on the city.
Where students live
| City | Student areas | Room rent |
|---|---|---|
| Sydney | Newtown, Kensington and Parramatta. | A$350 to A$500 a week for a room |
| Melbourne | Carlton, Brunswick and Clayton. | A$280 to A$420 a week for a room |
Everyday life
- The academic year runs February to November, so it is out of step with the northern hemisphere.
- Group of Eight universities are the research-intensive institutions.
- The Genuine Student requirement replaced the old GTE statement in 2024.
- Regional study earns extra points for skilled migration and a longer graduate visa.
- Tap water is drinkable everywhere and sunscreen is a daily habit.
- Casual jobs pay a 25 percent loading on top of the base wage.
- Superannuation (pension) is paid on your part-time earnings and can be claimed when you leave.
- Universities publish exact CRICOS codes for every course; a course without one cannot take internationals.
Health cover
Overseas Student Health Cover for the full visa period, budgeted above.
Figures are indicative for the 2026/27 cycle, change with exchange rates and policy, and should be confirmed with the university or the relevant government before you decide.
Get this checked for your case
Rules change and every application is different. A counsellor confirms the current position for your country and course. Free.
Talk to a counsellorRelated questions
How much does the Australian student visa cost?
The application charge is A$2,000 from 1 July 2025, non-refundable. Add OSHC, biometrics in some countries and a health examination.
How many hours can I work in Australia as a student?
48 hours a fortnight while your course is in session, and unlimited hours during official breaks. The cap is monitored through your tax file number.
Is a study gap a problem for Australia?
Gaps of up to two years are common and accepted with evidence. Longer gaps need a clear Genuine Student statement explaining the reason and how the course fits your plans.