The cost of living in Canberra is moderate and the city's low-cost supermarkets and discount stores can help keep costs down. It also helps to buy seasonal produce and cook your own meals to manage your budget.
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To live on your own, you'll need about $26,000 a year to cover basic costs. We also recommend you have at least $5000 on arrival to cover the initial costs of study material, rental bond and furniture. These estimates don't include large household items such as a refrigerator or car.
The cost of supporting a family can be substantial, wherever you are. In Canberra, the additional living cost for a partner is about $8000 per year. The additional living cost for each child is about $5000 per year. This doesn't include the cost of childcare or schooling.
The cost of childcare in Canberra is about $500 per week ($100 per day). At the more popular childcare facilities, there's often a long waiting list.
For more information, please see theÌý.
| Weekly expenses for a single student | Shared house or flat | One-bedroom unit |
|---|---|---|
| Rent | $200 to $250 | $350 to $450 |
| Mobile phone and internet | $15 | $15 |
| Household products (cleaning, self-care) | $10 | $10 |
| Food | $100 | $100 |
| Utilities (gas, electricity, phone) | $30 | $50 |
| Travel (concession bus) | $30 | $30 |
| Spending money/entertainment | $50 | $50 |
| Incidentals | $20 | $20 |
| Total weekly costs* (AUD) | $455 to $505 | $625 to $725 |
*Please note: these are estimates only; actual costs of living will be determined by lifestyle.
Contact usÌý
For questions, advice or more information, contact Student Administrative Services.ÌýÌý
T: +61 2 5114 5000
E: sas.cbr@unsw.edu.au