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The Australian Government requires international students to show AUD $29,710/year (~$2,476/month) in financial capacity for their Student Visa application. In practice, actual monthly costs vary significantly by city: Sydney averages $2,000–$3,100/month, Melbourne $1,700–$2,700/month, Brisbane $1,600–$2,400/month, and Adelaide around $1,350–$2,050/month. Accommodation is the largest expense, typically accounting for 50–60% of monthly costs.

Melbourne is generally around 10–15% cheaper than Sydney for students. Average shared accommodation in Melbourne costs $1,000–$1,500/month compared to $1,200–$1,800/month in Sydney. Both cities are significantly more expensive than Brisbane, Perth, or Adelaide. For budget-conscious international students, Adelaide is considered one of Australia's most affordable student cities, with overall monthly costs typically $500–$800 lower than Sydney.

OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) is mandatory health insurance for all international students studying in Australia. It must be purchased for the full duration of your student visa. Typical annual costs range from $600–$800 for a single student. Major providers include BUPA, Medibank, NIB, and AHM. OSHC covers doctor visits, hospital treatment, limited prescription medicines, and some emergency ambulance. It does not cover dental (except emergency), optical, or physiotherapy.

Yes, working while studying is common for international students. At the minimum wage of $26.44/hr (or $33.05/hr casual from July 2026), working the maximum 48 hours per fortnight earns approximately $3,172/month (casual rate before tax). This can significantly contribute to living costs, especially in more affordable cities. However, financial advisors recommend not relying solely on work income — unexpected hours reductions, semester breaks with different rules, and tax obligations can affect your income.

The AUD $29,710 annual financial requirement for an Australian Student Visa covers estimated living expenses only — accommodation, food, transport, personal expenses, and OSHC. It does NOT include tuition fees (which are separate and vary from AUD $20,000–$50,000+/year), visa application fees, airfares, or pre-departure costs. You must demonstrate access to the full amount upfront, typically through bank statements, scholarships, or a sponsored letter.