The high income of Australians leads to high living costs.
Australia consistently ranks among the countries with the highest per capita income globally, with an unemployment rate of just 5% (also one of the lowest worldwide)…With such economic stability, Aussie are seemingly unfazed by paying $3.50 for a cup of coffee. However, this high standard of living comes with a price. Even part-time baristas can rake in upwards of 2000 AUD (about 35 millions VND) monthly, and their full-time during summer breaks can pocket anywhere from 4000 to 5000 AUD (about 70-80 millions VND). This wage growth inevitably impacts the price tags on everyday items, making the Australian lifestyle increasingly expensive.
Transportation costs made affordable with convenient Public Transport cards
For international students, public transport is the top choice for travel. By snagging a monthly pass for buses, trains, trams, and ferries, etc navigating Victoria becomes a breeze. For instance, a Myki card facilitates travel across buses, trains, and inner-city trams, with weekly fares ranging from a modest 15 to 55 AUD. Compare this to the rounds of coffees and meals you’d need in some Saigon districts, costing anywhere from 100,000 to 200,000 VND. While a Myki card in Victoria may set you back 15 to 55 AUD (roughly 250,000 to 950,000 VND) per week, it’s a far cry from the hefty sums spent navigating HCMC’s – Vietnam bustling districts with ride-sharing apps. A casual coffee outing or meal with friends in some districts in Saigon using Grab or Bee (not to mention peak hours), you could spend from 100,000 to 200,000 VND. Hence, with these hassle-free public transport cards, students can traverse without fretting excessively about commuting expenses.
Stable income for international students thanks to unrestricted part-time work rights while studying down under
Unlike their counterparts in the US, international students in Australia enjoy the privilege of working part-time while pursuing their studies. In fact, the Australian government’s policy allows them to clock up to 40 hours a week, with restrictions lifted entirely during periods of severe labor shortages. This opens doors to extra income, with diligent students pocketing around 800 AUD per month from just two weekly shifts.
During semester breaks, students can even ramp up their earnings by taking on full-time roles. With three diligent months of summer employment, a student could pocket upwards of 10,000 AUD.
Thrifty is the name of the game: Capitalize on student discounts
Students can effectively cut corners on their Australian living expenses by capitalizing on discount programs. Various modes of transport, including buses, trains, planes, etc., extend discounted rates to students. Moreover, numerous retail outlets roll out the red carpet for students, offering enticing deals on branded merchandise.
So, while the land down under may appear financially daunting, savvy students armed with a blend of work, study, and smart budgeting find that Australia’s vibrant lifestyle is well within reach. In the global quest for affordable education, Australia remains a beacon of possibility, offering students the chance to thrive in one of the world’s most livable nations.
