Moving out can be an exciting but scary thing, especially when you’re moving far from family, friends, and community. 

Things to know

When you're planning to move to Perth to study, you'll want to know what you can expect to pay for some of the common living expenses. 

Please remember, the prices given on this page are just estimates. Your living costs will depend on a number of factors including your financial capacity, where you stay, the costs associated with your studies and other lifestyle needs and preferences.

Everyday expenses

As a general guide, you should budget approximately AU$500 per week for your living expenses in Perth. This figure does not include tuition fees, the cost of running a vehicle, textbook costs, or holiday travel costs and will vary according to your lifestyle. Everyone’s budget is different and will be based upon financial capacity, individual needs and preferences.

University expenses

You can expect to pay from AU$150 to $400 each semester for textbooks. You might also need to pay for stationery, photocopying and other incidental costs related to studying.  

Enrolled students are eligible for Microsoft Office ProPlus free of charge. Each student is allowed to install Microsoft Office on up to 5 devices.   

To save money, you may be able to find your textbooks free through the Library or purchase secondhand books from the Student Guild shop.

Find the textbooks you need for your course

Additional costs

If you are studying the Bachelor of Science/Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program, there are some additional costs you should be aware of.

Learn more about additional costs for the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)

How to save money as a student

There are many simple ways you can save money on living expenses while you’re studying. You might decide to: 

  • Stay in shared accommodation to share your costs and bills 
  • Cook meals at home rather than eat out regularly 
  • Shop around for second-hand books and equipment 
  • Use public transport instead of a private car when you can 
  • Find places you can get student discounts on food and entertainment. 

For discounts on textbooks, food and other items, you might consider joining the Murdoch Student Guild. 

Learn more about Murdoch Guild

Do you need a place to call home while you study? As a Murdoch University student, you’ll have a range of accommodation options on and off campus.

Living on campus

Some students may choose to live on campus at Murdoch University Village. This is a great option, particularly if you have never lived in Perth before. You’ll meet regional students who are also moving to Perth for the first time, and it’s a chance to become familiar with Perth while living in a safe environment close to class. Many students then choose to lease a private rental with friends they’ve made at the village.

There are many positives to living on campus:

  1. Walk to class – class will be within 1-2 km walking distance.
  2. Save on travel costs – park at the university and save on fuel
  3. Meet regional students just like you
  4. Only pay for the time you live on campus – no need to pay for a 6 or 12 month lease like normal rentals.
  5. All bills included except for food, mobile phone and fuel/parking.
  6. Safe with 24/7 security and residential advisors to assist you
  7. Make lifelong friendships
  8. Make friends with people from all over the world! 

See what’s on offer at Murdoch University Village and apply now

Other living options

You may also like to obtain your own private rental. There are many places that can assist you to find your new home.

With links to bicycle networks and public transport, choosing an affordable, convenient or environmentally sustainable way to get to get to Murdoch University's Perth campus is easy.

Find out how to travel to our Perth campus

Many students who move to Perth need to support themselves financially while they study. Murdoch University has some great services to assist you in finding employment close to your new home. There are even jobs for you on the University campus! Some may consider transferring from one location to another if working for a franchise company.

Read more about working in Perth while you study

See Murdoch Maps for interactive maps of our Perth, Mandurah and Rockingham campuses.

Life on campus

As a Murdoch University student, you can get involved in campus life, have fun and make lifelong friends through our range of facilities, services and events.

Murdoch Active

Like to stay active? Check out our offerings at Murdoch Active.

Events

See upcoming Murdoch University events.

Contact us

We understand that sometimes you need help from a real person on the other side of the phone. If you have any questions, feel free to connect with us. 

How to apply

Ready to apply? Get started with applying for your preferred Murdoch course.

Explore study areas

Discover study areas at Murdoch and choose the path that’s right for you.