Life in Melbourne

Study and Live In Melbourne

Consistently ranked as the world’s most liveable city, Melbourne is a thriving metropolis that exemplifies the finest aspects of Australian arts, culture, cuisine, and natural landscapes. The city features a dynamic blend of distinctive laneways, pristine beaches, and extensive street art. Melbourne is widely recognised as Australia’s premier destination for international students pursuing their studies.

Residing and studying in Melbourne offers aspiring entrepreneurial students valuable opportunities to engage directly with the business community and gain insights into professional practices within the city. The UBSS Melbourne campus, situated on Swanston Street in the heart of Melbourne’s central business district, provides students with immersive exposure to the dynamic environment of a vibrant commercial and cultural centre.

Melbourne Student Accommodation

Students residing in Melbourne can anticipate weekly accommodation expenses ranging from AUD 175 to AUD 400, depending on the type of housing arrangement. Options include private rentals, shared housing, or managed student accommodation shared with peers from other institutions. It is important to also consider additional costs such as utilities, food, and transportation when budgeting.

Melbourne Student Employment

Melbourne offers robust employment opportunities for students through part-time positions, internships, and industry placements. While certain internships may be unpaid, most employment opportunities provide fair remuneration and working conditions. These experiences are instrumental in developing practical skills and supporting students’ academic progress.

Melbourne Health Services

Melbourne’s healthcare system is recognised as one of the world’s leading models, providing comprehensive access to hospitals, general practitioners, dental services, physiotherapy, and mental health support. Students benefit from high-quality medical care, enabling them to maintain their well-being and remain focused on their academic pursuits.

Student Safety Melbourne

Melbourne is consistently recognised as one of the safest cities globally, offering a secure environment for residents and visitors alike. The city features a welcoming community, well-maintained public spaces, and responsive support services. These factors contribute to a sense of safety and well-being for international students both on and off campus.

Melbourne Public Transport

Melbourne’s public transport system is well-suited to student needs, offering extensive coverage across the city through trains, trams, and buses. International students may be eligible for discounted fares, and many services operate during extended hours to accommodate varied academic and personal schedules.

Student Support Services

Melbourne provides comprehensive support services for students, encompassing assistance with accommodation, employment, legal matters, and counselling. GCA further enhances this support by offering dedicated academic and personal guidance, ensuring students are well-equipped to succeed both within and beyond the classroom.

Guide to Melbourne

Create memorable experiences

Must-see events

Melbourne and the broader state of Victoria host a diverse range of events throughout the year, spanning categories such as food and beverage, sports, arts, and cultural festivals. The Visit Victoria website provides a comprehensive and regularly updated calendar of these events. For further information, please refer the Visit Victoria website.

ACMI

Australian Sports Museum

Brighton Bathing Boxes

Chinatown

City Laneways

Fed Square

Heide Museum of Modern Art

Immigration Museum

Koorie Heritage Trust

Jack Winter Gallery

Luna Park Melbourne

Melbourne Museum

Money and budgeting

The cost of living in Melbourne

During your time in Melbourne, you will encounter both initial and ongoing living expenses. Understanding average living costs is essential for effective financial planning and will assist you in developing a realistic budget for daily life.

To obtain a student visa, international students must meet the financial requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs. As of 10 May 2024, a single student must demonstrate the financial capacity to cover living expenses of at least AUD $29,710 per year. Actual costs will vary based on individual circumstances, including accommodation type and location, household size, and lifestyle. Given the financial demands of student life, careful budgeting is essential for maintaining financial stability throughout your studies.

Living cost

To help anticipate potential expenses, we have prepared a sample weekly budget.

The estimated costs provided reflect those of a single student residing in shared accommodation.

Item	Cost per person per week
Rent (shared)	AU$200 – 300
Electricity, gas and water (shared)	AU$20 – 50
Food	AU$140 – 280
Phone and Internet	AU$15 – 30
Public Transport	up to AU$70
Entertainment	AU$80 – 200

Disclaimer: The prices listed in this article are listed in AUD$ and are intended as a guide and are indicative only, it does not include the living cost of personal care items. We highly recommend you investigate costs specific to your own personal circumstances.

Find out about other lifestyle costs in Melbourne.

Estimate your living costs

Note: The Department of Home Affairs has financial requirements you must meet in order to receive a student visa for Australia. For more information please click here.

Understanding the average living costs in Australia is a crucial aspect of effective financial planning. To facilitate this, the Cost of Living Calculator provides a practical tool for estimating expenses associated with various lifestyle choices. It enables users to compare various accommodation options, transportation methods, and other relevant expenses.

Please note that the figures provided by the calculator serve as approximate guidelines. The tool is designed to support thoughtful budgeting by providing a comprehensive overview of potential costs, enabling students to make informed financial decisions.

Accommodation

Finding a place to live in Melbourne

Start Smart: Short-Term Accommodation

Upon arrival in Melbourne, short-term accommodation options such as hostels, serviced apartments, or budget hotels are recommended for the initial weeks. These options provide flexibility as you acclimate to the city and seek more permanent housing arrangements. For guidance on booking and safety tips, visit Study Melbourne.

Homestay: Live with a Local Australian Family

Homestay accommodation offers an excellent opportunity to engage directly with Australian culture while benefiting from the comforts of a family home. Students typically receive a furnished private room, with meals, utilities, and internet access often included. This option is particularly well-suited for those new to Australia seeking additional support during their transition and settlement period. For more information visit Study Australia.

Settling In: Renting Accommodation

When prepared for longer-term accommodation, renting a house or apartment provides a viable option for independent living. Alternatively, sharing a residence with housemates can offer significant cost savings while fostering a communal living environment. Use platforms like RealEstate, Domain or Flatmates.com.au to explore listings. Before signing a lease, make sure you understand your rights as a tenant by contacting Consumer Affairs Victoria.

Student Housing: Supportive and Social

For students seeking comfort, security, and a supportive community, managed student accommodation provides fully furnished studios or shared apartments, typically situated in close proximity to universities and public transportation. These residences often include utilities, internet access, and organised social activities, offering a convenient and well-structured living environment conducive to academic and personal development. Learn more and compare options via Study Australia.