Comprehensive Cost Planning for Murdoch University Students: An Ultimate Planning Manual
Attending university is an incredible milestone, but it comes with its fair share of responsibility - financial being one of them. At Murdoch University, preparing for your expenses in advance makes it easy for you to concentrate on your studies without worrying about finances.
We've put together a comprehensive guide of all the major and minor expenses that come along with studying at Murdoch which includes tuition, housing, daily expenditures, and the often overlooked additional costs.
Tuition Fees and Course Costs at Murdoch University
Domestic Student Fees:
Most domestic students studying at Murdoch University make the most of Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) with nearly all the undergraduate programs. Your contribution will always depend upon your area of study.
For 2025, the estimated cost will be approximately $3,950 to $11,300 for a full-time load. For those who qualify, block HECS-HELP loans allow students to defer the payment until their income reaches the minimum threshold needed for repayment.
International Student Fees:
The fee structure is considerably different for international students. For varsity bachelor's degrees, annual tuition fees range from $25,000 to $38,000 depending on chosen program.
Most international students pay their tuition fees for the semester ahead rather than per month, although some request more flexible payment schedules through the Murdoch University Student Financial Office.
Further Educational Costs
Alongside paying tuition, remember to set aside money for:
- Text Books and Materials ($400-800 annually)
- Course-related Field Trips ($50-300 per field trip)
- Softwares and Equipment for Specialized Programs
- Printing and Binding ($100-200 yearly)
Pro Tip: Murdoch's second-hand bookstore or online platforms like Student VIP are great places to grab discounted textbooks, saving students hundreds per semester.
Accommodation Options and Costs
On-Campus Housing at Murdoch University
Students can choose from various on-campus accommodation options at Murdoch:
Murdoch University Village
- Singles Studio: $260-290 per week
- Shared Apartment: $180-240 per week
- All utilities and internet are included
- A security deposit of $500-750 is required
Advantages of campus accommodation include:
- No commuting
- A vibrant community
- University facilities at their disposal
- Social networks are pre-established
Off-Campus Alternatives
Numerous students prefer residing in the suburbs off campus, such as Bull Creek, Kardinya, and Willetton.
Estimated weekly rental prices are:
- Share house: $150-200 per person
- One-bedroom apartment: $280-350
- Two-bedroom apartment: $350-450
Additional costs include:
- Bond (usually 4 weeks' rent)
- Connection fees for utilities
- Internet ($60-90 monthly)
- Contents insurance ($300-500 annually)
Transportation expenses in Perth
Public Transport
Perth's public transport system has special student rates.
- Student Smart Rider card: 40% discount on regular fares
- Concession fare to city is approximately $3.20 one way
- Unlimited travel zones 1-2 for $30-35 weekly
Owning a Car
If you plan on bringing a car:
- Murdoch parking permits: $400-500 a year
- Fuel: $40-60 weekly (depending on distance)
- Insurance: $600-1,200 annually
- Maintenance: $500+ annually
Budget tip: the university provides a free shuttle bus to/from Bull Creek station and campus during peak hours. This helps students living along the train line save money on transportation.
Daily Living Expenses
Meals and Groceries
Usually, grocery shopping costs for each week included in the budget will range from:
- Basic budget: $70-90
- Moderate budget: $100-130
- Premium budget: $150 and above
Eating on campus typically costs between $8-15, but can be lowered to $3-5 if you bring your own lunch.
Utilities and Services
If you live off campus, you can expect to pay:
- Electricity: $80-120 per month
- Water: $40-60 per month (usually part of the lease)
- Gas: $40-80 per month (if available)
- Mobile phone: $30-60 a month
- Internet: $60-90 a month
Guided Budget Building Steps
Determine All Income Streams
List all of the income streams available to you:
- Scholarships and grants
- Casual employment (reasonable hours during the semester)
- Contributions from family
- Personal savings
- Government payments (Austudy, Youth Allowance)
Action Step: Prepare a budget spreadsheet listing all guaranteed income separately from all potential variable income.
List Essential Expenses
Record the essential payments that you can't change:
- Tuition or loan repayments
- Housing expenses
- Household bills
- Groceries and dining out
- Traveling expenses
- Mobile phone and internet services
- Health and other insurance types
- Equipment for the course
Add Other Spending Bins
These shortcomings may be due to lack of time to budget realistically when it comes to:
- Career and other social events ($40-80 per week)
- Entertainment streaming services ($15-30 per month)
- Apparel ($50-100 monthly)
- Beauty and grooming services ($30-60 per month)
- Additional medical costs that are not insured
Set Aside Some Automated Overdraft Savings
Strive to reserve about 5% to 10% of your salary, hoarded for unpredicted situations such as:
- Computer maintenance
- Unplanned travel
- Health-related expenditure
- Unplanned academic spending
Monitor and Change Frequently
Set automated payment solutions including:
- Pocketbook (Australia only)
- WeMoney
- Goodbudget
- Murdoch financial planning software
Pick a specialized calendar to review your spending on a monthly basis and compare it with the budget prepared as part of your long-term expenditure planning.
Financial Support Options at Murdoch University
Scholarships And Subsidies
Murdoch has several scholarships:
- Awards for outstanding examination results ranging from $2000 to $10000
- Social justice awarding sponsorships for students from low income areas
- Scholars Indigenous Student Sponsorships
- Incentives for overseas students with high examination scores
- Special Scholarships Within the Departments
Important Reminder: Most applications for scholarships at Murdoch University for the next academic year's funding opens around October to December.
Considerations for International Students
Banking & Currency
- If you can, open an Australian bank account before arriving
- Budgeted changes should be made for international transfer services
- Plan for currency conversion expenses and changes
International students must:
- Show they have access to roughly $21,041 AUD annually for living expenses (in addition to tuition)
- Pay for health covers (OSHC) Maintains: $500-700 a year
- Work no more than 40 hours every two weeks during semesters (unlimited hours during breaks)
Initial Settlement Costs
Allocate your budget for a once-off payment during your arrival:
- Short term lodgings: $100-150 per night
- Mobile phone configuration: $30-100
- Transportation from the airport: $50-80
Hidden Costs to Consider
Academic Supplements:
- Professional accreditation costs for some programs
- Postgraduate student conference attendance
- Specialized design or science equipment
- Professional outfits for practicums or internships
Social Participation Spending
Social aspects of university also affect your finances:
- Club and society subscriptions ($5-50 each)
- Orientation week activities ($100-200)
- Formal and graduation events ($100-300 per event)
- Student events and parties ($20-50 each)
Wellbeing and Mental Health
Murdoch offers free counseling services, but you still need to think about:
- Gym membership ($15-25 weekly or use campus facilities)
- Hobby and recreation
- Occasional self-care and treat expenses
FAQs
Is it possible to live off a part time job while studying full time?
It is quite possible, though extensive planning is a must. Most students seem to cope with working around 10-15 hours a week during the semester. There are a number of casual retail and hospitality jobs in the Perth area around Murdoch.
Is there any unavoidable extra costs that I need to watch out for?
This fee is associated with student services and amenities (approximately $315 annually) is one to look out for, as well as penalties for late enrolment and fees for supplementary exams if required.
What is the average estimation of budget needed for social activities?
Estimated spending among most students at Murdoch is between $40-80 per week if not on a weekly basis for social activities. The Murdoch Student Guild runs a number of free or low-cost events throughout the semester.
Is it cheaper to live on or off campus?
Even if on-campus housing seems more expensive, commuting costs, time, and included utilities must be factored in. Off-campus housing usually becomes more cost-effective when shared with two or more housemates.
Student Testimonials
"I started in Village accommodation to meet people, then moved to a share house in my second year with friends. I was able to save about $40 per week and still live close enough to cycle to campus." -- James, third-year Business student
"As a first-year student, I lived in on-campus accommodation which was great for social interactions, although quite expensive at $250 per week. I changed to a shared apartment with friends in my second year which helped me to save roughly $70 weekly. This change was really helpful in my budget, and I managed to redirect those savings to buy groceries and fund outings over the weekends."- Emily, Second-Year Psychology Student
"I began my studies residing in the Village accommodation which was $230 per week. After locating a share house closer to campus for $160 per week, I began saving almost $70 weekly. It was helpful in repaying some of my student loans and still having additional funds available for social engagements."- John, International Relations Student
