Life of International Students in Australia: Cost of Living, Climate, Culture, Housing & Safety

Life of International Students in Australia: Cost of Living, Climate, Culture, Housing & Safety

Australia has emerged as one of the most desirable places of study to international students. Australia is a preferred location with world-class universities, globally recognised degrees, part-time work opportunities, and exceptionally high standard of living. The selection of a country is not just about the university or course, student life in Australia is very significant in determining the overall experience.

From the cost of living in Australia for international students to the climate, housing, safety, and work opportunities, everything matters when you are planning to study abroad. In this blog, we will give you a complete and realistic picture of life in Australia for international students, so you can make an informed decision.

How Is Life in Australia for International Students?

Australia is a varied destination in regard to lifestyle, depending on the state or territory. Climate, cost of living, culture and opportunities of the student are different in each area. Both, the fast-paced metropolitan city and a relaxing, vigorous place will work out, and Australia offers both options.

Below, we explore all major Australian states and territories, focusing on:

• Average cost of living
• Student accommodation options
• Climate and lifestyle
• Recreational activities
• Safety for international students

1. Australian Capital Territory (Canberra)

Australia is a country with a high standard of living, a clean environment, and a good education ecosystem, which is highly represented in Canberra, the capital city of Australia. It is very common among students who like staying in a quiet, disciplined, and academic oriented life.

One major advantage of studying in Canberra is that it is classified as a regional area, which may offer post-study work benefits for eligible international students.

Average Monthly Cost of Living: AU$3,900 – AU$4,000 (Approx)

Student Accommodation Cost (Weekly)

• Homestay: AU$400 – AU$500
• Shared House: AU$300 – AU$400
• Managed Apartment: AU$400 – AU$500
• One Bedroom Unit: AU$600 – AU$700

Climate, Culture & Lifestyle

• Warm summers and cold winters
• Educated and multicultural community
• Strong focus on research, governance, and museums

Recreation & Safety

• Cycling, hiking, lake activities, and nearby snowfields
• One of the safest cities in Australia with low crime rates

2. New South Wales (Sydney)

Sydney is the most recognised city in Australia and a world education centre. It provides a dynamic student experience, global facilities and high-quality career exposure, more so in business, IT and finance.

Average Monthly Cost of Living: AU$4,600 – AU$4,700 (Approx)

Student Accommodation Cost (Weekly)

• Homestay: AU$400 – AU$500
• Shared House: AU$400 – AU$500
• Managed Apartment: AU$600 – AU$700
• One Bedroom Unit: AU$800 – AU$900

Climate, Culture & Lifestyle

• Mild winters and warm summers
• Multicultural environment and iconic landmarks
• Huge food variety from all over the world

Recreation & Safety

• Beaches like Bondi and Manly, city events, nightlife
• Generally safe, but students should stay alert in crowded areas

3. Northern Territory (Darwin)The 

Northern Territory is a distinct Australian experience having good Indigenous culture and an outdoor lifestyle. Darwin is not expensive, friendly, and suitable for students who want something contrary to the big cities.

Average Monthly Cost of Living: AU$3,300 – AU$3,400 (Approx)

Student Accommodation Cost (Weekly)

• Homestay: AU$400 – AU$500
• Shared House: AU$200 – AU$300
• Managed Apartment: AU$300 – AU$400
• One Bedroom Unit: AU$600 – AU$700

Climate, Culture & Lifestyle

• Tropical climate with wet and dry seasons
• Multicultural and friendly community
• Strong Asian food influence

Recreation & Safety

• National parks, waterfalls, night markets
• Safe city, but caution near water due to wildlife

4. Queensland (Brisbane)

Queensland is perfect for students who love sunshine, beaches, and outdoor living. Brisbane is a fast-growing education and business city with a relaxed lifestyle.

Average Monthly Cost of Living: AU$3,800 – AU$3,900 (Approx)

Student Accommodation Cost (Weekly)

• Homestay: AU$400 – AU$500
• Shared House: AU$200 – AU$300
• Managed Apartment: AU$300 – AU$400
• One Bedroom Unit: AU$600 – AU$700

Climate, Culture & Lifestyle

• Subtropical climate with many sunny days
• Outdoor-focused lifestyle and cultural events

Recreation & Safety

• Beaches, islands, reef activities, river cruises
• Very safe and student-friendly city

5. South Australia (Adelaide)

Adelaide is known for affordability, excellent education, and a relaxed pace of life. It is also a regional study destination, offering advantages for post-study work visas.

Average Monthly Cost of Living: AU$3,500 – AU$3,600 (Approx)

Student Accommodation Cost (Weekly)

• Homestay: AU$400 – AU$450
• Shared House: AU$200 – AU$300
• Managed Apartment: AU$400 – AU$500
• One Bedroom Unit: AU$500 – AU$600

Climate, Culture & Lifestyle

• Mediterranean climate
• Strong arts, festivals, and food culture

Recreation & Safety

• Beaches, wine regions, cultural festivals
• Safe, welcoming, and easy to commute

6. Tasmania (Hobart)

Tasmania is ideal for students who prefer nature, safety, and a peaceful environment. Hobart offers quality education with lower living costs compared to mainland cities.

Average Monthly Cost of Living: AU$3,400 – AU$3,500 (Approx)

Student Accommodation Cost (Weekly)

• Homestay: AU$400 – AU$450
• Shared House: AU$300 – AU$400
• Managed Apartment: AU$300 – AU$400
• One Bedroom Unit: AU$400 – AU$500

Climate, Culture & Lifestyle

• Cool climate with four seasons
• Strong research and academic culture

Recreation & Safety

• Hiking, markets, national parks
• Extremely safe with a low crime rate

7. Victoria (Melbourne)

Melbourne is often called Australia’s cultural capital. It attracts students from all over the world because of its education quality, diversity, and lifestyle.

Average Monthly Cost of Living: AU$4,000 – AU$4,100 (Approx)

Student Accommodation Cost (Weekly)

• Homestay: AU$400 – AU$450
• Shared House: AU$300 – AU$400
• Managed Apartment: AU$400 – AU$500
• One Bedroom Unit: AU$500 – AU$600

Climate, Culture & Lifestyle

• Famous for changing weather
• Arts, sports, music, and food culture

Recreation & Safety

• Events, road trips, cafes, nightlife
• Safe city with strong student support services

8. Western Australia (Perth)

Perth offers a balance of quality education, affordability, and scenic beauty. It is especially popular among students interested in engineering and mining-related fields.

Average Monthly Cost of Living: AU$3,200 – AU$3,300 (Approx)

Student Accommodation Cost (Weekly)

• Homestay: AU$400 – AU$450
• Shared House: AU$300 – AU$400
• Managed Apartment: AU$300 – AU$400
• One Bedroom Unit: AU$600 – AU$700

Climate, Culture & Lifestyle

• Sunny weather most of the year
• Relaxed, coastal lifestyle

Recreation & Safety

• Beaches, islands, parks
• One of the safest student cities in Australia

Part-Time Work Opportunities for International Students in Australia

International students in Australia can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during vacations.

Popular Part-Time Jobs & Average Pay

• Retail Assistant: AU$25 – AU$30/hr
• Cafe / Barista: AU$25 – AU$32/hr
• Food & Beverage Staff: AU$26 – AU$33/hr
• Tutor / Teaching Assistant: AU$30 – AU$50/hr
• Call Centre Jobs: AU$26 – AU$35/hr
• Delivery Driver: AU$20 – AU$35/hr

Tips to Adapt to Life in Australia as an International Student

• Be open to new cultures and experiences
• Build friendships with locals and students
• Explore your city and nearby places
• Manage study, work, and social life properly
• Use university support services
• Stay positive and patient during initial months

Conclusion

Life in Australia for international students offers a perfect balance of quality education, global exposure, and a high standard of living. From affordable regional cities to vibrant metropolitan hubs, Australia provides diverse options to match different budgets, lifestyles, and career goals. With strong safety standards, multicultural communities, flexible part-time work opportunities, and globally recognised qualifications, students not only gain academic excellence but also valuable life experience.

By understanding the cost of living, accommodation choices, climate, culture, and work opportunities across different states, students can plan their journey more confidently. With the right preparation and mindset, studying in Australia can be a rewarding step toward a successful international career and long-term growth.