Money & work

The cost of living in Sydney is similar to other large cosmopolitan cities, but it will ultimately depend on your lifestyle. As a guide, a single international student in Sydney will need a minimum of AUD$16,000 - AUD$18,000 to cover living expenses for one year. To make a currency calculation click here.

International students on student visas may work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and unlimited hours during holiday times while in Australia. Sydney is Australia's largest city and there are more companies and businesses here than any other city in Australia, so there are many opportunities for finding part time work.

The currency in Australia is the Australian Dollar (AUD$).
During your time in Australia it is a good idea to open a bank account. If you are planning to work in Sydney you will need to open a bank account. Employers will pay wages into your bank account and will not pay wages in cash. To open a bank account, you must show your passport as proof of identity. Australian banks are registered and regulated under government legislation in order to safeguard the funds of depositors. Bank cash-dispenser machines, known as Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) are widespread, as is the use of Electronic Funds Transfer at Point of Sale (EFTPOS) in shops and businesses.Major Australian banks include:

• Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA)
• Australia New Zealand Bank (ANZ)
• Westpac
• St George Bank

International credit cards such as Mastercard, Visa, American Express and Diners Club can all be used in Australia. Please note that repayments to most card accounts can only be made in the country in which the card is issued.

Credit cards are usually not issued to international students in Australia. Therefore, if you want to use a credit card you should make arrangements either to open your own account before you leave home, or to obtain a card on your parents' account.