Life in Australia
Australia is a place of adventure and exploration, full of natural wonders and exquisite beaches. The laid-back lifestyle, sunshine and cultural diversity makes it a popular place for international students to attend university.
“As well as the people, the food and weather are really lovely here. I particularly loved being able to hang out at the beach with my friends!”
Ricardo from Colombia,
Business student at Murdoch University
Australia locations
Find out more about the different locations you could be studying in with Kaplan.
Adelaide >
South Australia’s cosmopolitan coastal city has a buzzing atmosphere and is packed with culture
Newcastle >
A sunny city in New South Wales with a friendly and beautiful surroundings
Perth >
Western Australia’s capital city known for its beautiful sandy beaches and laid back atmosphere
Food, nature and sport
Australia offers a wide variety of attractions and cuisines to explore.
The best food to try in Australia
Aussie Meat Pie
Found in corner shops, bakeries and supermarkets, this popular snack is a staple and usually filled with minced meat and gravy.
Chicken Parmigiana
Made from chicken schnitzel topped with tomato sauce and melted cheese, and one of the most common dishes you’ll find in an Australian pub.
BBQs
Nothing says ‘Australia’ more than prawns, sausages and burgers cooking over the BBQ on a sunny day.
South Australia’s most breathtaking beauty spots
Kangaroo Island
A secluded island off the coast with lots to do and plenty of wildlife to see.
Cape Spencer
Take in 360º views of towering sea cliffs and explore its pristine beaches.
Sellicks Beach
Located in the first of South Australia’s three peninsulas, surrounded by Sellicks Hill Range.
Blowhole Beach
A popular fishing and surfing spot with its own hiking trail, a favourite of landscape photographers.
Bunda Cliffs
Forming part of the longest uninterrupted sea cliffs in the world, offering panoramic views
Razorback Lookout
A dirt track weaving across the top of the ridgetop with an impressive backdrop of Heysen Range.
Top 5 sporting events in Australia
- The Australian Open
The first of four Grand Slam tennis events, this annual tournament is held at Melbourne Park.
- Australian Grand Prix
This is the second oldest surviving motor racing competition held in Australia and is always thrilling to watch.
- The Ashes
This historic cricket event sees England and Australia play against each other on the previous winner’s soil.
- World Surfing Championships
Australia hosts multiple surfing competitions where the very best surfers go to some of the country’s top beaches to ride world-class waves.
- Tour Down Under
This legendary bike race was established over 20 years ago and even has its own festival that attracts cycling fanatics from across the country.
Australia: things to know
Travel
There are many forms of transport in Australia, including railway lines with extensive networks in the main capital cities and some intercity and interstate networks. Trams are present in many towns and cities, and buses are also a very common way of getting around.
Cost of living
A single person’s estimated monthly cost: AU$3,652
- Lunchtime meal and drink: AU$20
- Monthly public transport ticket: AU$156
- 2 tickets to the cinema: AU$42
Weather
The climate varies considerably across Australia’s different states and territories, but is generally known for having very warm summers, with the summer months lasting from December to February. The winters are also relatively mild.
Where to study >
Study abroad at one of our Australia partner universities and experience student life in the Australia for yourself
Murdoch University >
University of Adelaide >