Typical Monthly Living Expenses

International students pursuing counselling courses in Australia generally spend between AUD 1,400 and AUD 2,600 per month. Here's a typical breakdown to help you estimate your budget.

Accommodation (shared/on-campus)

$600 – $1,200/month

Varies by location and type

Food & Groceries

$300 – $550/month

Cooking at home saves money

Public Transport

$80 – $180/month

Buses, trains, trams

Utilities (electricity, gas, water)

$90 – $180/month

Depends on accommodation type

Mobile & Internet

$40 – $90/month

Phone plans & data

Personal & Leisure

$150 – $350/month

Entertainment, gym, outings

Note: To meet Australian visa requirements (Subclass 500), you must demonstrate sufficient funds. The government currently requires proof of at least AUD 29,710 per year for living costs for a single student.

Accommodation Options & Costs

Choose the accommodation type that best fits your budget and lifestyle preferences.

On-Campus Housing

$250-$450/week

University dormitories and student residences with shared facilities

Shared Rental

$180-$300/week

Sharing a house or apartment with other students

Private Rental

$350-$550/week

Independent apartment or studio (varies by city)

Homestay

$280-$350/week

Living with an Australian family (often includes meals)

Accommodation Tips

  • Book accommodation early, especially before semester starts
  • Consider proximity to campus and public transport
  • Check if utilities and internet are included in rent
  • Read rental agreements carefully before signing

Tips to Manage Your Living Costs

Being aware of the cost of living helps you avoid financial stress, so you can focus on your counselling studies and personal wellbeing.

Cook at Home

Save money and eat healthily

Save money and eat healthily by preparing your own meals. Cooking at home helps you maintain a balanced lifestyle — essential for counselling students.

Use Student Discounts

Transport, cinema, retail

Take advantage of transport, cinema, and retail discounts available to students. Always carry your student ID.

Share Accommodation

Reduce rent and utilities

Rent and utility costs drop significantly when shared with fellow students or young professionals.

Work Part-Time

Up to 48 hours per fortnight

Counselling students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods to help cover expenses.

Budget & Track Spending

Use apps or planners

Use apps or planners to monitor your expenses and adjust as needed. Being aware of costs helps avoid financial stress.

Plan Your Budget

Create a detailed monthly budget to track your expenses and ensure you have sufficient funds throughout your studies.

Need Help Planning Your Budget?

Get personalized advice on managing your finances while studying abroad.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

On average, counselling students spend between AUD 1,400 and AUD 2,600 per month, depending on city, accommodation, and lifestyle.