Cost of living

The tables below compare estimated average annual costs for one student in three types of accommodation:

Average living costs for one student (A$)

	Shared house (with 2 others)	Home board (all meals included)	On-campus residences (no meals included)
Establishment costs
Bond	380	693	300
Rent in advance	380	693	(fees in advance) 2178
Connecting utilities (e.g. phone, gas, electricity)	40	0	0
Other costs	(e.g. furniture) 500	(placement fee) 350	(other fees) 350
Establishment total	1300	1736	2828

Weekly costs
Rent/board	95	160	115
Food, groceries and personal items	100	30	100
Utilities (gas, electricity, mobile phone, internet)	35	15	15
Travel to uni and work	30	30	20
Spending money	80	80	80
Weekly total	340	315	330

Annual costs (37 weeks)
Establishment costs, less rent in advance	920	1043	650
Books, stationery, photocopying, etc.	800	800	800
Weekly costs x 37 weeks	12580	11655	12210

ANNUAL TOTAL	14300	13498	13660

These estimates are for the 37-week academic year. If you live on campus, that’s how long you will stay. We have included 37 weeks of house rental for comparison. Note that house rental leases are usually for a full year and if you sign the lease you are committed to 52 weeks of rent. Before you sign a lease, you can ask the rental agent if a six-month lease is possible.
We have excluded the cost of clothing or travel for leisure.
Costs are based on 2011 prices. Students starting in 2012 should allow for a 4%-5% increase in living expenses.
Bond is calculated as equivalent to 4 weeks rent. It is refunded at the end of your tenancy.
We have included 4 weeks rent in advance in the establishment costs. It is not included separately in the annual costs, because it is counted in the 37 weeks rent.
See renting rights and responsibilities for more information about bond and rent in advance.