Housing and Rent

Housing is typically the largest expense for doctors relocating to Australia. Rental costs vary significantly depending on the city and suburb. In Sydney, expect to pay between AUD $600 and $900 per week for a two-bedroom apartment in a decent suburb. Melbourne is slightly more affordable, with similar apartments ranging from AUD $450 to $700 per week. Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide offer lower rents, often between AUD $400 and $600 per week.

Regional areas are considerably cheaper, with rental costs often 30 to 50 percent lower than capital cities. Many regional employers also provide housing assistance or subsidised accommodation as part of their employment packages, which can make a significant difference to your overall expenses.

If you plan to buy property, median house prices in Sydney exceed AUD $1.2 million, while cities like Adelaide and Brisbane offer more accessible entry points around AUD $650,000 to $800,000. Regional towns can be significantly more affordable.

Groceries, Utilities, and Daily Expenses

Weekly grocery costs for a family of four typically range from AUD $200 to $350, depending on where you shop and your dietary preferences. Major supermarket chains like Woolworths, Coles, and Aldi offer competitive pricing. Fresh produce is generally affordable and high quality, particularly if you shop at local markets.

Utility costs — including electricity, gas, water, and internet — generally total between AUD $250 and $400 per month for a standard household. Mobile phone plans are competitively priced, with good options available from AUD $30 to $60 per month.

Dining out is a common part of Australian culture. A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around AUD $25 to $45 per person, while a coffee typically costs AUD $4 to $6. Childcare is a notable expense, with full-time daycare costing between AUD $90 and $180 per day before government subsidies, which can reduce this by 50 to 90 percent depending on your income.

Transport Costs

Most Australian cities have public transport networks including trains, buses, trams, and ferries. Monthly public transport passes typically cost between AUD $100 and $200. However, many doctors find that owning a car is more practical, especially in suburban and regional areas where public transport coverage is limited.

Running a car in Australia involves registration (AUD $300 to $800 per year depending on the state), insurance (AUD $500 to $1,500 per year for comprehensive cover), fuel (approximately AUD $1.80 to $2.20 per litre), and maintenance. Buying a reliable used car typically costs between AUD $10,000 and $25,000.

In regional areas, a car is essentially a necessity. The upside is that traffic congestion is minimal and parking is usually free or inexpensive, unlike in the major capital cities.

Cost Comparison Across Cities

Here is a rough comparison of monthly living costs for a doctor with a family of four across major Australian cities:

  • Sydney — The most expensive city overall. Higher rent, higher dining costs, but also the highest doctor salaries in some specialties. Monthly costs (excluding rent): AUD $4,000 to $5,500.
  • Melbourne — Slightly cheaper than Sydney with a vibrant cultural scene. Monthly costs (excluding rent): AUD $3,500 to $5,000.
  • Brisbane — More affordable housing with a warm climate year-round. Monthly costs (excluding rent): AUD $3,200 to $4,500.
  • Perth — Competitive salaries with a lower cost of living than the east coast. Monthly costs (excluding rent): AUD $3,200 to $4,500.
  • Regional areas — Significantly lower costs across the board, often with salary loading and housing incentives from employers. Monthly costs (excluding rent): AUD $2,500 to $3,800.

For a detailed breakdown of what doctors earn in each location, visit our Salary Guide. To compare cities in more detail, see Best Cities for Doctors.

Important Planning Note

This page is designed as practical guidance for overseas doctors and should be used alongside official requirements published by AHPRA, the AMC, relevant specialist colleges, and the Department of Home Affairs.

Rules, fees, and processing times can change. Before lodging any application, verify current criteria directly with official sources listed on our Resources page.