Cost of Living in Australia: Housing, Transport, and Food for Malayali Students

Cost of Living in Australia: Housing, Transport, and Food for Malayali Students

 Cost of Living in Australia: Housing, Transport, and Food for Malayali Students: Australia continues to attract thousands of students from Kerala every year. While quality education and global exposure remain strong motivators, understanding the cost of living in Australia is equally important. For Malayali students, planning expenses early helps avoid stress and ensures a smooth student life abroad.

At Scottia Education, we guide students not only through admissions but also through real-life financial planning. Therefore, this detailed guide explains housing costs, transport expenses, and food spending in Australia, specifically from a Malayali student’s perspective.

Why Understanding Living Costs Matters for Malayali Students

Moving from Kerala to Australia involves a big lifestyle change. Although Australia offers part-time work opportunities, students must still manage rent, groceries, and travel carefully. Moreover, living costs differ widely between cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, and Perth.

Because of this, early budgeting helps students:

  • Choose the right city

  • Select affordable accommodation

  • Control monthly spending

  • Focus better on studies

Cost of Living in Australia for International Students

On average, international students spend AUD 1,800 to AUD 2,500 per month, depending on location and lifestyle. However, students who share accommodation and cook at home often reduce costs significantly.

Major expense categories include:

  • Housing in Australia

  • Transport in Australia

  • Food and grocery costs

Let us explore each in detail.

Housing Cost in Australia for Malayali Students

Housing is the largest monthly expense. Therefore, choosing wisely makes a huge difference.

Types of Student Accommodation

1. Shared Rental Apartments

Most Malayali students in Australia prefer shared housing. Since many Kerala students travel in groups or join existing Malayali communities, sharing reduces costs and provides emotional comfort.

  • Monthly cost: AUD 500 – AUD 900

  • Includes: Shared kitchen, bathroom, and living space

  • Popular in: Melbourne, Sydney suburbs, Brisbane

2. University Accommodation

Although convenient, university housing is usually more expensive. However, it includes utilities and security.

  • Monthly cost: AUD 800 – AUD 1,400

  • Best for: First-year students

3. Homestay Options

Living with an Australian family helps students adjust faster. Moreover, meals are often included.

  • Monthly cost: AUD 900 – AUD 1,200

  • Includes: Food, utilities, and support

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Transport Cost in Australia for Students

Australia offers a well-connected and student-friendly transport system. Because public transport is reliable, owning a car is unnecessary for most students.

Public Transport Options

  • Trains

  • Buses

  • Trams (in Melbourne)

  • Metro services

Monthly Transport Expenses

Most students spend AUD 100 – AUD 160 per month using student concession cards. Moreover, each state offers discounted fares for international students.

Examples:

  • Opal Card (NSW)

  • Myki Card (Victoria)

  • MetroCard (South Australia)

Additionally, many students choose bicycles, especially in smaller cities. This further reduces costs.

Food Cost in Australia for Malayali Students

Food expenses vary based on eating habits. However, Malayali students who cook at home save significantly.

Monthly Grocery Expenses

  • Average monthly grocery cost: AUD 250 – AUD 400

  • Indian stores are available in all major cities

  • Kerala food items like rice, spices, and lentils are easily accessible

Eating Out vs Cooking at Home

While eating out costs AUD 15 – AUD 25 per meal, home-cooked food costs far less. Therefore, students usually limit restaurant visits to weekends.

Popular budget grocery stores:

  • Coles

  • Woolworths

  • Aldi

  • Indian grocery shops

Additional Living Expenses to Consider

Apart from housing, transport, and food, students should also plan for:

  • Mobile and internet: AUD 30 – AUD 60

  • Electricity and gas: AUD 40 – AUD 80 (shared)

  • Health insurance (OSHC): AUD 40 – AUD 60

  • Entertainment and personal expenses: AUD 80 – AUD 150

Because of these costs, monthly budgeting is essential.

Part-Time Work and Income Support

International students can work 48 hours per fortnight during study periods. Moreover, wages in Australia are among the highest globally.

  • Average hourly wage: AUD 22 – AUD 28

  • Common jobs: Hospitality, retail, cleaning, warehouse work

Therefore, most Malayali students manage basic expenses independently after settling in.

How Scottia Education Helps Malayali Students

At Scottia Education, we go beyond admissions. We help students:

  • Choose affordable cities

  • Find budget-friendly colleges

  • Understand realistic living costs

  • Prepare financially before departure

As a result, our students start their Australian journey with confidence.

Smart Budgeting Tips for Malayali Students

  • Share accommodation with trusted roommates

  • Cook at home regularly

  • Use student transport concessions

  • Track monthly expenses

  • Avoid unnecessary subscriptions

Most importantly, planning early prevents financial pressure later.

Conclusion

The cost of living in Australia may seem high initially. However, with smart planning, shared housing, and part-time work, Malayali students can live comfortably. Moreover, Australia offers long-term career benefits that outweigh short-term expenses.

With expert guidance from Scottia Education, students can make informed decisions and enjoy a successful student life in Australia.

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