Living in Melbourne

Consistently rated the World's Most Liveable City by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), Melbourne has also been ranked in the top ten Global University Cities and in the top 20 Global Innovation Cities.

It is the second largest city in Australia with a population of 4 million and is nestled on Australia’s largest bay - Port Phillip Bay. The city enjoys a climate that allows you to spend summers on the beach and winters in the nearby ski fields.

Melbourne is often referred to as “Australia’s Cultural Capital.” It is the birthplace of the world's first feature film, Australian Television, the Australian Impressionist art movement and its live music scene has created many great acts including AC/DC.  It is home to a multicultural population who contribute to the life of the city in all its facets.

Melbourne is also Australia’s sporting capital. It hosted the 1956 summer Olympics and each year still plays host to some of the largest sporting events in the world, including the Australian Open Tennis Championship, the Australian Formula One Grand Prix, the Boxing Day Test Match, and the Melbourne Cup.

With similarities to many European cities in its style and architecture, a distinctive feature of the city is Melbourne’s trams. Melbourne has the largest tram network in the world and it is the main mode of transport around the central business district.

Depending on your lifestyle and choice of accommodation, the cost of living in Melbourne varies. However, we estimate you will need approximately AUD$16-26,000 per year to cover living expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, textbooks and entertainment (excluding tuition).  More information on living expenses, transport and housing can be found at Living in Melbourne.

International students will require a student visa. More information and application forms for student visas can be found online at www.immi.gov.au/students.