Living in Melbourne: the ultimate expat guide

Melbourne's economy is one of Australia's strongest, offering diverse employment opportunities across multiple sectors. The city serves as a key financial services hub and hosts headquarters for numerous multinational corporations.

Key employment sectors

The city's economy is anchored by several thriving industries. Professional services including finance, banking, and insurance employ hundreds of thousands, with companies like ANZ, NAB, and major consulting firms maintaining significant operations. The healthcare and social assistance sector represents Melbourne's largest employer, supported by world-class hospitals and medical research facilities. The technology and innovation sector continues rapid growth, with startups and established tech companies seeking skilled workers in software development, cybersecurity, and data science. Construction and property development remain strong given Melbourne's population growth.

Work permits and visa requirements

International workers must secure appropriate visas before taking up their posts. Options include the Skilled Independent (189) for permanent work without sponsorship, the Employer Nomination Scheme (186) for sponsored permanent residency, and the Temporary Skill Shortage (482).

Data correct as of December 2025.

Source: Numbeo

Melbourne is home to eight universities that attract over 300,000 students annually. The city's institutions consistently rank among the world's best, offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs across every discipline. International students comprise a significant portion of the student body, benefiting from globally recognized qualifications and post-study work opportunities.

Leading universities

The University of Melbourne, ranked 14th globally in QS rankings 2024, is Australia's top-ranked institution. Founded in 1853, it offers the distinctive Melbourne Model where students complete a three-year bachelor's degree followed by a specialized master's program. Monash University (ranked 42nd) is Australia's largest, known for engineering and medicine, offering double-degree options. RMIT University specializes in technology and design, providing practical, industry-connected pathways from diplomas to degrees.

Admission requirements and process

International students must generally complete secondary education equivalent to Australian Year 12, with required grades varying by program. Applications are submitted directly through university websites or via the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC) for undergraduate programs. Application deadlines generally fall between August and November for February intake, or April to May for July intake. Processing takes four to eight weeks, and successful applicants receive offer letters specifying tuition fees and enrollment conditions.

Sources: University of Melbourne, Monash University, RMIT University

The Australian education system comprises primary school (Prep to Year 6), secondary school (Years 7–12), with students typically completing the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) for university entry.

Public and international schools

Public schools in Melbourne are free for Australian citizens and permanent residents, though temporary residents may need to pay tuition fees. Schools are assigned based on catchment areas tied to residential addresses.

International schools in Melbourne provide curricula familiar to expat families, including British, American, and IB programs. Among the options are Wesley College in St Kilda, Elsternwick, and Glen Waverley, offering the IB continuum from early childhood through Year 12. Scotch College in Hawthorn provides IB programs for boys from Prep to Year 12 in a prestigious setting. Presbyterian Ladies College (PLC) in Burwood offers the IB Diploma for girls in Years 11–12 as an alternative to VCE, while Australian International Academy combines secular and Islamic education with IB programs (PYP, MYP, and DP).

Enrollment and requirements

Applications typically require previous school reports, birth certificates, passport copies, and student visas. Some schools conduct assessments or interviews. Application fees range from AUD 100 to 300, with additional costs for uniforms, textbooks, and extracurricular activities. English language support is available for non-native speakers through English as an Additional Language (EAL) programs in many schools.

Melbourne's housing market has a range of options from modern CBD apartments to spacious suburban homes. Rental prices vary significantly based on location, with inner-city areas commanding premium rates while outer suburbs provide better value.

Popular expat neighbourhoods

Southbank and Docklands attract young professionals and expats seeking modern apartment living with proximity to CBD. These waterfront areas offer restaurants, entertainment, and excellent transport links. St Kilda provides beachside living with a bohemian atmosphere, popular among internationals for its cafés, markets, and nightlife. Brighton and Bayside suburbs provide upscale residential living with beach access, attracting families seeking quality schools and spacious homes.

Rental process and costs

Prospective tenants have to provide identification, visa documentation, employment references, and proof of income. Landlords typically request one month's rent as bond (security deposit) held by the Residential Tenancies Bond Authority. Advance rent of two to four weeks is standard. Lease terms usually run for 12 months.

Data correct as of December 2025.

Source: Numbeo

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Melbourne's reputation as Australia's cultural capital stems from its year-round festivals, world-class museums, thriving arts scene, and passionate sports culture. The city offers something for every interest, from high culture to street art, and from fine dining to weekend markets.

Museums, galleries and cultural attractions

The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) is Australia's oldest and most visited art museum, operating two magnificent sites. NGV International on St Kilda Road showcases European, Asian, and international collections, while The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia at Federation Square exclusively displays Australian art including Indigenous works. Federation Square is Melbourne's cultural heart, hosting the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI), which explores film, television, and digital culture. Other popular attractions include the Melbourne Museum, the Immigration Museum and the Shrine of Remembrance, which honours military service with striking architecture and city views.

Sports and nightlife

Melbourne is a sporting city. The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) hosting AFL football from March to September and cricket in summer. Global tennis stars arrive in January for the Australian Open, followed by the Australian Grand Prix in March. For nightlife, follow the crowds to popular areas like Chapel Street in Prahran, Brunswick Street in Fitzroy, and St Kilda's Acland Street.

Sources: Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne Museum

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Melbourne's daily rhythm combines relaxed Australian lifestyle with urban sophistication. The city wakes early, with cafes bustling by 7am as locals embrace the renowned coffee culture. Work-life balance is valued, with most professionals finishing by 6pm to enjoy evenings at restaurants, parks, or cultural events.

Getting around Melbourne

Melbourne has the world's largest tram network, alongside extensive train and bus services. All public transport uses the myki smartcard for ticketing. A Free Tram Zone covers the CBD, including key landmarks, where no ticket is required. Additionally, the City Circle Tram offers free rides with audio commentary. The Night Network ensures transport availability on Friday and Saturday nights. The City Circle Tram offers free rides with audio commentary between 9:30am–5pm daily.

Lifestyle and cultural habits

Melburnians embrace outdoor living despite variable weather. The city's parks, including the Royal Botanic Gardens and riverside trails, see constant activity from joggers, cyclists, and picnickers. Coffee culture is serious business, with many locals favouring independent cafés over chains. Dress is generally casual except in corporate settings, and the attitude is friendly yet reserved compared to other Australian cities.

Sources: Myki, Royal Botanic Gardens

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When it comes to the cost of living in Melbourne, the city ranks as one of Australia's most expensive, though it remains more affordable than comparable international cities like London or Singapore.

Monthly expenses for a single person

Data correct as of December 2025.

Monthly expenses for a family of four

Data correct as of December 2025.

Source: Numbeo Melbourne, GetGIS Cost of Living Guide