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  1. Eligibility To Work
  2. Before You Leave Home
  3. Setting Up A Bank Account
  4. Australian Tax Office Requirements
  5. Contract or Permanent
  6. Commerce v Banking
  7. Cost Of Living
  8. Useful Information

Cost Of Living

Destination: Australia

House

It is more cost effective to rent a house or a flatshare than stay in a hotel or hostel once you have settled in an Australian city. Whilst you are looking for longer-term accommodation, however, you may find staying in a hostel or independent backpackers for travelers the cheapest option. All major Australian cities have several hostels; visit www.yha.org.au or www.hostelaustralia.com.

The most common approach to finding accommodation is by purchasing a copy of the local newspaper.

When looking for a room or property to rent, consider the following:

  • If the room/property is fully, part or not furnished.

  • Which bills are included in the cost of the rent.

  • What the landlord’s expectations are at the end of the tenancy.

  • Where the bond will be held for safe-keeping.

Table of other costs

Expense Cost (AUD $)
Monthly Rent (two bed flat) 1,400 - 1,800
Monthly Rent for room 700 - 800
Food per week (for two) 150 - 200
Coffee 3.50
Cinema ticket 15.00
Litre of Petrol 1.60
Bottle of Beer (at pub) 8.00
Glass of Wine (at pub) 8.00
Night out for two 80.00
Litre of Milk 2.75
Loaf of Bread 4.00
Sky (monthly) 65.00