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All Australia 31 JAN, 2023

Cost of Living in Australia for Indian Family in 2024

Living in Australia with your family can be a great experience because of diverse culture, excellent educational opportunities, and picturesque landscapes. So, if you are planning on moving to Australia, you must know the total cost of living in Australia for Indian families. The monthly living expenses will vary depending on several factors like the city you choose to live in, your lifestyle preferences, and much more. Let us explain more about Australian living expenses so Indian families can understand better.

Average cost of living in Australia for an Indian family

Living in Australia can be more expensive than in India, especially in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne. In 2024, the average cost of living for a family of four in Australia can range from AUD 3,000 to 3,500 per month, excluding entertainment and other discretionary spending. This can vary significantly depending on your chosen location, family size, and lifestyle choices. For instance,Australian housing costs are typically higher in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, while regional areas tend to be more affordable. If you’re planning to move to Australia with your family, it’s important to carefully research the cost of living in Australia at your chosen location and adjust your budget accordingly.

Your Australian living expenses will vary depending on several factors, including:

  1. House rent
  2. Transportation
  3. Groceries
  4. Utilities
  5. Health insurance
  6. Study

However, with thoughtful planning and budgeting, it’s still possible to have a comfortable life on a moderate income.Let’s take a closer look at the cost of living in Australia for Indian families in 2024:

1. Australia grocery prices

Moving to Australia with your family is exciting, but managing grocery prices can be a concern, especially for those accustomed to Indian prices. Here’s a breakdown of Australia grocery prices to give you an idea of what to expect:

ItemAverage Price (AUD)Average Price (INR)
Bread (1 loaf)2–430–50
Milk (1 liter)3–540–60
Eggs (dozen)5–770–90
Chicken breast (per kg)10–15250–350
Minced beef (per kg)15–20500–600
Tomatoes (per kg)5–840–60
Apples (per kg)5–880–120
White rice (per kg)2–430–40
Pasta (per kg)2–480–100
Canned tomatoes (400g)2–350–80

2. Australia housing cost

The Australian housing cost for a family can vary significantly based on factors such as the city or region, type of housing, and whether you choose to rent or purchase a property. If you’re considering buying a home, the cost will depend on the location, size, and condition of the property. In major cities, house prices can range from several hundred thousand to over a million dollars.

Australian housing costs are a major factor impacting the cost of living for families in Australia. Here’s an overview:

City/RegionHousing TypeEstimated Weekly Cost (AUD)
Major City (e.g., Sydney, Melbourne)3-bedroom apartment (renting)500-800
House (buying)Median price: 800,000+
Smaller City/Regional Area3-bedroom apartment (renting)300-500
House (buying)Median price: 500,000+
Shared AccommodationPer person (renting)200-300

3.Transportation cost in Australia

The transportation cost for Indian families in Australia can vary depending on various factors such as the city or region of residence, the mode of transportation used, and the family’s specific needs and preferences.

Transportation typeCost per trip (INR)Notes
Public transportOne-way ticket195 – 380Varies by city, ticket type, time of day
Daily pass540 – 1080May be economical for multiple trips per day
Weekly pass2160 – 4320Ideal for frequent commuters
Monthly pass4660 – 11960Most economical for heavy public transport use
FuelPetrol (per litre)64 – 87Varies depending on location and global oil prices
Diesel (per litre)81 – 97
TaxisFlagfall fee216 – 380Can add up quickly for longer distances
Per kilometer108 – 270

As far as the average public transportation cost in different cities of Australia is concerned, here are a few important pointers:

  • Canberra: The current fare for a MyWay adult single trip is AUD 3.44, not 3.14. While some passengers are eligible for free travel (e.g., children under 4), it’s worth emphasizing that discounts are available for seniors, youth, concession card holders, travel concession card holders, and off-peak travel.
  • Sydney: The Opal card cost is correct; it ranges from AUD 3.50 to AUD 7.00 depending on the mode of transport. Again, highlighting discounts available for seniors, youth, concession card holders, and students would be more informative.
  • Melbourne: The myki card cost also remains accurate, ranging from AUD 2.50 to AUD 7.80 based on zones. Similar to the other cities, mentioning concession discounts for seniors, youth, concession card holders, and students is important.

4. Average Costs of Utilities in Australia

City/RegionElectricity (AUD/month)Gas (AUD/month)Water (AUD/month)Waste Collection (AUD/month)Total (AUD/month)
SydneyLow: $100
High: $250
Low: $50
High: $100
Low: $30
High: $50
Low: $30
High: $50
Low: $210
High: $450
MelbourneLow: $90
High: $230
Low: $45
High: $90
Low: $25
High: $45
Low: $25, High: $45Low: $185
High: $410
BrisbaneLow: $85
High: $220
Low: $40
High: $80
Low: $20
High: $40
Low: $20
High: $40
Low: $165
High: $380
PerthLow: $80
High: $200
Low: $35
High: $70
Low: $15
High: $35
Low: $20
High: $40
Low: $150
High: $345
AdelaideLow: $75
High: $190
Low: $30
High: $60
Low: $10
High: $30
Low: $15
High: $35
Low: $130
High: $315
Regional TownLow: $60
High: $150
Low: $25, High: $50Low: $5
High: $20
Low: $10
High: $30
Low: $100
High: $250

5. Cost Of studying in Australia for Indian students

The cost of studying in Australia for Indian students can vary based on several factors, including the type of course, the level of study, the institution, and the location. Here’s a breakdown of the main expenses you should consider:

Cost ComponentRange (AUD per year)
Tuition feesUndergraduate20,000 – 45,000
Postgraduate22,000 – 50,000
PhD14,000 – 37,000
Living ExpensesAccommodation
(shared apartment)
12,000 – 36,000
Food3,600 – 6,000
Transportation
(public transport)
1,200 – 2,400

Average cost of living in Australia for an Indian family

As a newly arrived Indian family of 4 in Sydney, the initial days can be challenging, especially with navigating finances. While the average cost of living in Australiavaries significantly, consider a starting range of AUD 3,500 to AUD 5,000 per month in Sydney. Remember, this depends on factors like housing choices, transportation needs, and lifestyle habits. Budgeting effectively, exploring shared housing options, and using public transport can help manage costs. Remember, thorough research and careful planning are key to successfully adjusting to your new life in Australia.

Conclusion

As an Indian family or student living in Australia, managing your day-to-day expenses can be challenging. It is high time you get a reliable global card that assures maximum savings with add-on benefits. If you are looking for hands-on solutions to your financial woes while living abroad, the zero forex markup international Niyo Global debit card can effortlessly facilitate international transactions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! The Melbourne Institute Family Budget Calculator (https://www.epi.org/resources/budget/) allows you to customise estimates based on your family size, location, and children’s age.

Australian housing costs are often the biggest hurdle, followed by groceries, utilities, and transportation. Cultural differences around spending habits might also require adjustment.

Apartments are common in cities, houses in the suburbs, and shared accommodation offers the lowest cost option. Consider your family size, privacy needs, and budget.

Australia has a universal healthcare system (Medicare) but private health insurance can offer additional coverage. Medicare covers most basic medical needs, but prescription drugs might have costs.

Yes, particularly in major cities. However, eating out regularly can significantly increase your food budget.

Australia provides various support programs, including family tax benefits, childcare subsidies, and rent assistance. Eligibility and amounts depend on family income and circumstances.

It depends on the level of study (undergraduate, postgraduate, PhD), institution, program, and Australian living expenses. A rough estimate is AUD 30,400 – AUD 101,200 per year.

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