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Life in Sydney and Melbourne
Life in Sydney and Melbourne

Why Choose Sydney for
Your Animal Care Studies

Sydney is renowned for its breathtaking harbor, diverse landscapes, and vibrant cultural scene, making it an exciting destination for students pursuing studies in animal care and pet-related fields. As a hub of innovation and education, Sydney offers unmatched opportunities for hands-on learning in animal welfare, with access to specialised facilities, workshops, and industry connections.

Beyond academics, Sydney’s dynamic arts, culture, and business landscapes provide a rich backdrop for students to grow personally and professionally. With its mix of urban energy and natural beauty, Sydney is the perfect environment to explore your passions and pursue your academic and career goals in animal care.

Key Highlights of Studying in Sydney

    • World-Class Livability
      Sydney ranks 4th in the QS Best Student Cities (Desirability) ranking for 2025 and is also placed 4th in The Economist Intelligence Unit’s Global Livability Index 2023—making it one of the best places to live and study. 
    • Safety First
      Ranked the 4th safest city in the world by The Economist Intelligence Unit’s Safe Cities Index 2021, Sydney ensures students feel secure in their new environment. 
    • Seamless Transportation
      Sydney’s well-connected public transport network, including trains, buses, ferries, and light rail, makes commuting easy and stress-free. Our campus is located just a 5-minute walk from Museum Station and the newly opened Gadigal Metro, offering direct access to key destinations across the city. Whether commuting to campus or exploring Sydney’s attractions, getting around is hassle-free.

Destinations Near Our Sydney Campus

Hyde Park: 10 m
Museum Station: 97 m
Sydney Town Hall: 0.67 km
Queen Victoria Building: 0.79 km
Darling Harbour: 0.93 km
Sydney Opera House: 2.3 km
Taronga Zoo: 6.8 km

Why Choose Melbourne for
Your Animal Care Studies

Melbourne is one of the most pet-friendly cities in the world, offering a welcoming environment for both pets and pet lovers. Known for its vibrant arts scene, innovative spirit, and blend of tradition with modernity, Melbourne provides a dynamic and supportive atmosphere for students pursuing studies in animal care and related fields.

With a world-class education system and a culturally diverse population, Melbourne is the perfect city for students to thrive academically and personally. The city’s pet-friendly spaces and vibrant atmosphere offer a unique backdrop for learning, making it an ideal destination for students to explore their passions and pursue careers in animal welfare.

Key Highlights of Studying in Melbourne

    • World-Class Livability Melbourne has been ranked the 1st most liveable city in Australia and the 4th most liveable city in the world according to the Global Liveability Index 2024. In addition, Melbourne is recognized as the 5th best student city in the world in the QS Best Student Cities Ranking 2025, offering an excellent quality of life for students.
    • A Pet-Friendly City Melbourne’s commitment to being one of the most pet-friendly cities in the world makes it a great choice for pet lovers. The city is home to numerous parks, cafes, and public spaces where pets are welcome, creating an inclusive environment for both students and their furry companions. 
    • Convenient Transportation 
       Melbourne’s public transport network is extensive and includes trains, trams, buses, and bike paths, making it easy to get around. Whether you’re commuting to class or traveling to animal care placements, Melbourne’s transport options offer seamless connectivity. Our Melbourne campus is conveniently located within the Free Tram Zone, providing easy access to the city and surrounding areas, ensuring smooth travel for your studies and hands-on learning experiences.

Destinations Near Our Melbourne Campus

Victoria Harbour: 0.1 km
Marvel Stadium: 0.8 km
Melbourne CBD: 1 km
Queen Victoria Market: 1.7 km
State Library Victoria: 2.3 km
Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria: 4.4 km

Accommodation Options in Sydney and Melbourne

Homestay

Living with a local family is a fantastic way to feel at home in Sydney or Melbourne. With the Homestay Network, you can find a family that suits your needs. It’s an affordable and supportive option for students, offering a safe environment and a chance to practice English. Just remember, each family has their own house rules, so make sure to review them before applying.

Student Accommodations

Sydney and Melbourne offer a range of student accommodation options like Iglu and Scape, designed for comfort and convenience. These accommodations are fully furnished, close to universities, and often include breakfast and cleaning services. Though a bit pricier, they offer a hassle-free living experience with all the essentials covered.

Shared Private Housing

For a more affordable and social option, consider sharing a house or apartment in either city. You’ll get your own room while sharing common spaces, making it a great way to meet new people. Shared housing is perfect for those on a budget and looking for a community experience.

Living Independently

If you value privacy, renting a studio or one-bedroom apartment might be right for you. Both Sydney and Melbourne offer plenty of rental listings on sites like Realestate and Domain. It’s a great option for those who prefer more freedom and privacy but can manage the responsibilities of independent living.

Health and Wellbeing: Accessing Health Services as an International Student

Sydney and Melbourne offer world-class health services. As an international student, you’ll have access to essential medical care through the required Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which covers doctor visits, hospital care, and emergency services.  In addition to OSHC, students can access both public and private health services, including medical centers, hospitals, and mental health support. Australia’s public health system offers high-quality care, with guidance from your OSHC provider on making claims.  Both cities also offer wellbeing support, including counseling, mental health resources, and support groups.

Cost of Living in Sydney and Melbourne

The Australian Government recommends that international students have at least $21,041 per year for living expenses in Sydney, which is similar for Melbourne. However, actual costs may vary based on lifestyle choices and accommodation preferences. 

Budgeting for Your Living Expenses

When planning your budget, consider the following common expenses: 

Rent: 

    • Student Accommodation: $900 – $1,500/month 
    • Shared Housing: $700 – $1,500/month 
    • Independent Living: $1,500 – $2,500/month

Transportation: 

    • Monthly transport pass: $100 – $150 
    • Rideshare services (Uber, DiDi) priced by distance 

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): 

Around $500 – $600/year for essential medical services 

Groceries: 

$300 – $500/month depending on habits 

Dining & Entertainment: 

$200 – $300/month for dining out and activities 

Estimated Monthly Expenses: 
$2,000 – $2,500, depending on lifestyle. 

Estimated Monthly Expenses 

$2,000 to $2,500 per month, based on average living and lifestyle choices.