Bhavneet Kaur, an international student from India, earns a couple of thousand dollars a month working as an administrative assistant to support herself and her younger brother.
The escalating cost of living in Australia has Kaur and many more international students struggling to make ends meet, leading to mounting calls for reductions in tuition fees and travel expenses.
An exclusive look into the lives of these students reveals their financial challenges and their demands for more equitable treatment compared to domestic students.
Reflecting on her experience, Kaur says, “When I first arrived, I was filled with excitement and optimism about studying in Australia. However, the reality has been challenging. Accommodation is expensive and highly competitive.”
“I remember waiting all day just to view a single room, only to find dozens of others vying for the same space. The cost of living—rent, groceries, and public transport—has put a significant strain on my finances. I feel that there should be some financial relief, like travel subsidies or discounts, for international students.”
Kaur highlights the rise in public transport costs from around $3 to $5.50, noting that her travel expenses consume a considerable portion of her budget. She believes there should be greater concessions for international students to help mitigate these financial pressures.
Her brother, Agam, also voices concerns about the burden of travel expenses.
“It’s unfair that we have to bear these costs when we’re already paying high fees to study here,” he argues.
Agam’s frustration extends to the job market; despite applying for over 200 positions, he has only received responses from 70, with just three leading to interviews.
“Employers often require experience, but how can we gain it without initial opportunities? There needs to be more equality in the job market for international students.”
Rabina Shrestha, a student from Nepal, works 20 hours a week and lives with supportive family members. She shares, “I’m grateful for my brother and sister-in-law’s support, but the cost of living remains a challenge.”
“Public transport expenses and inadequate service, such as unreliable replacement buses, exacerbate the difficulties. The lack of timely transport has affected my health and academic performance. I believe that tuition fees should be reduced and that health insurance should cover all medical expenses, including dental care.”
Another Indian International student, Kashish Bansal has had to cut back on groceries and food due to rising prices. She laments, “International students face significant hurdles in securing employment and gaining recognition for their qualifications.”
“Many jobs require local experience, which places us at a disadvantage. Additionally, high taxes and the cost of living are burdensome. There should be more substantial student discounts and financial support.”
All three students, and many more, despite their differing circumstances, share a common plea: a reduction in tuition fees to match those of domestic students and financial assistance for travel expenses.
As the cost of living in Australia continues to rise, international students find themselves caught between maintaining their education and managing their financial well-being. Policymakers must address these concerns and support the students who contribute significantly to Australia’s economic and cultural diversity.
Author: Aarushi Sharma is a Master’s student in Communications at Deakin University, specialising in Digital Media, Journalism, and Public Relations. She is currently gaining experience as a trainee journalist with The Australia Today.
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