Accommodation Guide for Indian Students in Australia – 2026 Edition
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Study AbroadAccommodation Guide for Indian Students in Australia – 2026 Edition
Australia is one of the top destinations for international students, offering excellent education, high living standards, and a safe multicultural environment. One of the most important aspects of studying in Australia is finding the right accommodation — one that balances comfort, safety, and affordability.
This guide provides Indian students with detailed insights into the types of student housing, costs, visa-related living expenses, and how Pollster Education can support you throughout your journey.
1. Understanding Accommodation Options
International students in Australia can choose from various accommodation types based on their budget, location, and lifestyle preferences.
| Type of Accommodation | Average Weekly Cost (AUD) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| On-Campus Housing | 250–400 | Close to university, includes meals and utilities |
| Private Rentals | 300–550 | Independent living, may require lease and bond |
| Shared Apartments | 200–350 | Budget-friendly, social environment |
| Homestay | 250–350 | Live with local families, meals included |
| Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) | 350–600 | Fully furnished, modern amenities, secure |
Note: Costs vary depending on the city — Sydney and Melbourne are usually more expensive compared to Adelaide, Perth, or Brisbane.
2. Living Expenses as per Updated Requirements
As of 2025–2026, the Australian Government requires international students to show minimum living expenses of AUD 29,710 per year when applying for a Student Visa (Subclass 500).
This amount ensures students can cover essential expenses such as accommodation, food, transport, and utilities during their stay in Australia.
3. Popular Student Cities and Average Costs
| City | Average Rent (per week) | Public Transport (monthly) | Lifestyle Overview |
|---|---|---|---|
| Melbourne | 350–500 | 120–160 | Cultural capital with many part-time job options |
| Sydney | 400–550 | 150–180 | High rent but strong career opportunities |
| Brisbane | 300–450 | 120–150 | Affordable, student-friendly environment |
| Adelaide | 250–400 | 100–130 | Cost-effective with high living standards |
| Perth | 300–450 | 110–140 | Balanced lifestyle and part-time job availability |
Summary: Melbourne and Sydney are the most popular among international students, while Adelaide and Brisbane offer affordable alternatives without compromising quality of life.
4. Average Monthly Living Costs
| Expense Category | Average Monthly Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Rent | 1,200–2,200 |
| Food & Groceries | 400–700 |
| Transport | 120–180 |
| Utilities (electricity, internet, phone) | 150–200 |
| Personal & Leisure | 200–300 |
| Estimated Total | 2,070–3,580 |
Tip: Always budget an additional 10–15% for emergencies or unexpected costs.
5. Part-Time Work Opportunities
Australia allows international students to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during holidays.
Common part-time roles include hospitality, retail, customer service, and tutoring — helping students offset their living expenses effectively.
6. Tips for Choosing the Right Accommodation
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Research the location and proximity to campus before signing a lease.
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Check whether rent includes utilities and Wi-Fi.
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Read rental contracts carefully and understand your rights as a tenant.
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Connect with your university’s housing office or trusted advisors like Pollster Education before finalizing housing.
7. Post-Arrival Support
Upon arrival, students should open a local bank account, get a Tax File Number (TFN) for work, and register for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
Most universities and student support offices also help with temporary housing during the first few weeks.
8. How Pollster Education Helps Indian Students in Australia
Pollster Education provides end-to-end assistance — from selecting the best university and course to guiding students through visa applications, accommodation choices, and part-time job preparation.
Our expert counsellors ensure students are financially prepared, understand visa regulations like the AUD 29,710 living expense requirement, and make informed housing decisions across Australia’s leading student cities.
Finding the right accommodation in Australia is about balancing comfort, convenience, and cost. With the updated AUD 29,710 living expense requirement, students must plan finances carefully while exploring various housing options.
With Pollster Education’s expert counselling and guidance, Indian students can secure safe, affordable housing and enjoy a seamless study experience in Australia.
