Living in Australia

Australia at a glance

Australia is a large, multicultural country with a relaxed, informal culture and a generally high standard of living. Cities are spread out, public transport is strong in major CBDs, and day-to-day services (banking, healthcare, shopping) are easy to access once you’re set up.

Major cities and lifestyle

Sydney (NSW): Australia’s largest city. Great harbour views, busy lifestyle, higher accommodation costs.
Melbourne (VIC): Known for cafés, sport, arts and “four seasons in a day” weather.
Brisbane (QLD): Warmer climate, outdoor lifestyle, generally lower rent than Sydney.
Perth (WA): More isolated, strong beach culture, hot dry summers.
Adelaide (SA): Often more affordable, relaxed pace, festivals and food/wine regions nearby.
Canberra (ACT): National capital, quieter, strong public service presence.

Weather and what to pack

Australia’s seasons are opposite to the Northern Hemisphere:

Summer: Dec–Feb
Autumn: Mar–May
Winter: Jun–Aug
Spring: Sep–Nov

Melbourne example: Summers can be warm to hot, and winters are cool (layering is key). Melbourne summer mean temperatures are commonly around 14–25°C, but heat spikes can occur.

Packing tips

Bring layers (especially for Melbourne)
A light rain jacket is useful
Sun protection matters year-round: hat + sunscreen + sunglasses

Cost of living and budgeting (practical tips)

Costs vary a lot by city and lifestyle. Your main weekly costs are usually:
- Rent (largest cost)
- Utilities (electricity/gas/water) + internet
- Transport
- Groceries
- Phone plan
- Personal expenses
Money-saving habits students use:
- Share accommodation
- Cook at home more often
- Use concession public transport where eligible
- Buy used furniture (Marketplace / Gumtree)
- Choose a phone plan with enough data (avoid excess charges)

Working in Australia: hours and pay

Work hours (student visa): If you hold a student visa, you can work 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (with some exceptions for research higher degrees).

Minimum pay: Australia has a legal minimum wage. As of 1 July 2025, the National Minimum Wage is $24.95 per hour (or $948 per week based on a 38-hour week) for employees not covered by an award/enterprise agreement. Many jobs pay under awards that set higher rates and penalties.

Emergency numbers and safety

Call 000 (Triple Zero) for police, fire or ambulance in emergencies.
From a mobile you can also dial 112 (connects to the same emergency call service).

General safety tips:

In emergencies, call first, then notify family/friends
Be cautious near water (rips at beaches can be dangerous)
During summer, watch for heat warnings and drink water

Culture, communication and “dress code”

Australia is generally informal and direct, but polite.

Everyday Culture

People commonly use first names (even at work)
Queuing is expected (lines at shops, services, transport)
“Please” and “thanks” go a long way
Personal space is valued

Clothing

Dress is usually casual: neat everyday wear is fine
For workplaces and placements: aim for clean, neat, closed shoes when required; follow site safety rules
Weather changes fast in some cities (Melbourne especially), so layers help

Useful everyday basics (quick)

Power: 230V, Type I plug (same as AU/NZ)
Shopping: supermarkets + local grocers; many shops open late on some weekdays
Tipping: not expected (optional for exceptional service)