Preparing finances
Most students need around AU$20,000 (excluding tuition fees) each year to cover their living expenses. It is advisable that you have some cash with you for the initial expenses upon arrival, but do not carry large amounts of cash.
Currency exchange is convenient in Australia, it can be done within all banks during business hours.
Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) are available throughout Australia and are open 24 hours.
Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted credit cards.
Opening a bank account in Australia after your arrival is important. The most effective way to receive money from overseas is via a bank account, students must open a bank account as soon as possible once they arrive in Melbourne.
International students living in Australia for more than six months, or who will earn money or interest from bank accounts, must obtain a tax file number. Tax file numbers can be obtained from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).
Airport pickup
Our college can arrange for you to be met at Melbourne International Airport and transferred to pre-arranged Melbourne accommodation. To request this service, you must complete the Arrival Services Form. There is a fee charged for this service.
You can make your own way to Melbourne’s city centre via the Skybus service (approximately AU$16 one way/AU$26 return/two trips), or a metered taxi (costing approximately AU$50 − AU$55 to the city centre).
Melbourne’s International Airport is located 25 kilometres, or 30 minutes drive, from the centre of Melbourne. www.skybus.com.au
New students often prefer to stay in temporary accommodation when they first arrive in Melbourne. This allows time to become familiar with the city and to find suitable permanent accommodation. Our college will assist students finding an accommodation with a small fee charge.
What kind of accommodations and where to live are those important decisions you will make. A number of options can be considered.
Mobile Phones
There are several major mobile service providers that offer pre-paid or contract services. It can be as cheap as $30 per month for phone and internet services. Note: Not all overseas mobile phones work in Australia. Before bringing a mobile phone into Australia, check that it is compatible with Australian networks.
Share and Rental Accommodation
In share houses, each person usually has their own bedroom and shares the kitchen, bathroom and living areas. Rental costs range from AU$140–AU$240 per person per week, depending on location and facilities.
Other expenses include food, gas, electricity, transport, telephone and Internet connection.
Real estate agents offer a variety of rental accommodations including houses, flats and apartments. The average weekly rent ranges from AU$250–AU$350 for a one bedroom flat/apartment, and AU$300–AU$450 for two bedrooms.
Other expenses include food, gas, electricity, transport, telephone and Internet connection.
It is recommended that you arrange share or rental accommodation after you arrive in Melbourne, as this is a major decision and a legally-binding contract must be signed. Occupants of share or rental accommodation may also need to buy furniture and other household goods (most rental properties are offered unfurnished), in addition to providing a rental bond, which is a security deposit held by the real estate agent until the tenancy is completed.
Private Student Hostel Accommodation
There are many private hostels in the city, offering a furnished bedroom, shared bathroom, living and leisure areas. Some hostels provide meals, while others provide kitchen facilities. Computer facilities may also be available. Weekly prices range from AU$240– AU$480 (extra costs may include payment of a bond).
Accommodation is usually offered on a three, six (one semester) or 12-month basis. Students are advised to arrange hostel accommodation once they arrive in Australia.
Homestay / Full board
Homestay is a great choice for students wanting to experience living in an Australian home, while at the same time improving their English language skills. Students generally have their own furnished bedroom and share living spaces with their homestay family.
Weekly rates are approximately AU$280. Meals are included; however, telephone calls and travel expenses are not. The placement cost is AU$220-$280.
Student Apartment Complexes
Student apartment complexes are fully furnished and allow students to live independently in a secure and supportive residential environment. As these complexes are very popular, there is a high demand when vacancies are advertised. Utility costs are not usually included in the rental price. Rent can vary from AU$300 – AU$400 per week.
