Students sitting at a table

Living Expenses

The figures below act as a guide to compare the cost of living for a single student in a student apartment or renting a private property.

When comparing costs, please bear in mind: 

  • all figures are in Australian dollars
  • costs will vary depending on location, lifestyle and preferences
  • rent is calculated on a 52-week basis
  • all costs are subject to an additional 10% Goods and Service Tax (GST).

Living expenses comparison

Establishment CostsStudent Apartment (PBSA)Private Rental
Bond/deposit calculation (refundable).  
Further details can be found here: Consumer Affairs
weekly rent x 4.333weekly rent x 4.333
Utility connection (electricity & gas)included150 - 200 pm
Furniture & household goods (not whitegoods)included2,500
Books, stationery, equipment600 - 700600 - 700
Clothes850850
Accommodation fee15,600 - 36,296 pa15,600 - 36,296 pa
Food (includes snacks)from 100 pw from 100 pw
Travel (does not apply to students in walking distance)from 46 pwfrom 46 pw
Gas, electricity, waterincluded150 - 200 pm 
Mobile Telephone30 - 70 pm30 - 70 pm
Internet (may be included in the rent, check with the acommodation)includedfrom 60 pm
Miscellaneous expenses (medical, movies etc)150150

For more information on the cost of living in Australia and price summaries, please visit Cost of Living in Victoria.

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