Living expenses

Cost of living factors to consider

See below for some of the costs to consider when living in Queensland. 

Accommodation

There are a variety of accommodation options available to students across Queensland, including :

• On-campus student accommodation
• Homestays
• Residential colleges
• Sharehouses
• Private rentals

Prices can vary depending on the location, availability and type of accommodation. Usually, the average price of accommodation ranges from AUD $150 - $600 per week depending on the type of accommodation you choose. 

Don’t forget to budget for utilities such as electricity, gas, water and internet bills, which are usually between AUD $100 - $200 per month.

Transport

Queensland has a variety of transportation options available to students.

All eligible full-time university, vocational education and training or other post-secondary students in Queensland can apply to receive concession fares to help with the cost of public transport. This includes buses, trains and ferries. Information on concession fares for students is available on the Translink website. 

Cycling, E-scooters and walking are also cheap and convenient transport options. Bike paths and lanes are available to use across Queensland cities and towns.

If you choose to purchase a car, you’ll need to familiarise yourself with Queensland road rules. The Queensland Government also provides information on obtaining a Queensland license and road safety.

Food

Depending on individual preferences and eating habits, students can expect to spend between AUD $60 - $150 per week on groceries. Supermarkets offer a wide variety of fresh produce and products, including gluten-free and vegan options, and international foods. Queensland’s most common and widely available supermarkets are Coles, Woolworths, and IGA, as well as other smaller stores.

Eating out in Queensland can be a great way to discover new foods and try ‘Australian’ dishes such as chicken parmigiana, meat pies or lamingtons! Our restaurants are numerous and diverse, offering dishes from all over the world – thanks to Queensland’s vibrant and multicultural communities. Average meal prices range from AUD $15 – $40.

Health Insurance

As an international student, you are required to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

It covers any doctor’s appointments, hospital treatments or prescription medications that you may require while living in Queensland. Depending on the level of cover you require, costs can range from AUD $500 – $4,000 per year.

Study materials

As part of your studies, you may be required to purchase study materials such as textbooks, equipment, calculators or uniforms for work placements. If you need to work with children or other vulnerable people during your placements, you may also need to have a Working with Children Check (Blue Card). Costs can vary from AUD $100 - $1,500 per year depending on your course. 

You can purchase some materials second-hand via student portal forums or on-campus notice boards.

Entertainment and leisure

Queensland’s buzzing entertainment and leisure scene has something for everyone – live music concerts, museum and art exhibitions, night markets, sporting events, theatre performances, you name it. 

International students can expect to spend roughly AUD $50 - $200 per month on entertainment and leisure activities. Check out Tourism and Events Queensland for up-to-date information on events happening in your area.

Personal expenses

It’s important to budget for personal expenses each month, such as clothing, toiletries, haircuts and hobbies.

Based on your habits and interests, you can expect to spend between AUD $50 - $300 per month on personal expenses.

A popular money-saving hack in Queensland is shopping at second-hand clothing shops like Vinnies and Salvos.