Financial advice
If you are having a hard time financially we have professional staff who can provide you with financial advice and assistance with study and living costs.
On this page
General budget help
By doing your budget you will be able to understand your spending habits and support living well.
Budget Your Money is a Government website budget calculator that helps check:
- where your money is going
- if you are spending more than you can afford
- that your money is going towards your priorities.
This electronic budget is ideal as it allows you to enter weekly, fortnightly, monthly and annual expenses without the need to convert.
Estimate your cost of living in Melbourne with our guide to everyday expenses or check out our cost of living estimates for international students.
Environment Victoria and the Department of Industry and Science have some terrific information in relation to reducing your living costs and ecological footprint. Download the 'Victorian Green Renters Guide: Sustainable Living Tips for Renters'.
Accommodation & your finances
Our staff can help with rental advice to help you rental advice that can help you work out budgets for living while studying.
It's important to factor in rental costs for accommodation in Melbourne. Our handy table allows you compare weekly rental prices in various locations close to our campuses.
Transport & parking costs
Don't forget to consider the cost of getting to uni, whether it's via public transport, using your own car, or even riding in.
We have some information about transport and parking options for getting to campus.
In 2015 a new public transport pass was introduced for International students - it's called the iUSEpass MYKI ticket.
More information about this and other forms of public transport, including trams, trains and buses.
Loans, scholarships and other financial help
Low Income Health Care Card
Low Income Health Card - this card provides concessions for health care, public transport and living costs eg. gas, electricity and water. It is issued to students who receive Youth Allowance, Austudy or Abstudy. If you are not eligible for one of these payments you can still apply for a Low Income Health Care Card if you are:
- an Australian resident
- receiving NO or low income (less than $4008 over 8 weeks) immediately prior to your application.
To apply you will need to:
- download a Low Income Health Care Card application form
- lodge the completed form at your local Centrelink Customer Service Centre with the required supporting documentation.
Trade Support Loans (Australian Apprentices)
Australian Apprentices Trade Support Loans Programme - The Australian Government provides eligible Australian Apprentices access to its Trade Support Loans Programme; the loans are paid in instalments totalling up to $20,000 over four years. These loans are intended to assist apprentices with everyday costs while they complete their apprenticeship.
Scholarships
Scholarships – Victoria University has a range of scholarships to assist Higher Education and TAFE students with their living and education costs. If you are studying Higher Education and receive Youth Allowance, Austudy, or Abstudy, you may also be eligible for a Start-Up Scholarship and a Relocation Scholarship.
Centrelink Advance Payment
Centrelink Advance Payment - can be used to assist with living and study costs. If you receive Centrelink payments (including Youth Allowance, Austudy, Abstudy, Sole Parent Payment and Disability Support Pension) you are eligible to apply for a Centrelink Advance Payment.
Student Loans
Student Loan - up to $500 interest free is available as a last resource. Strict conditions apply. Contact Student Welfare Services on +61 3 9919 5400 for an appointment.
Contact Student Welfare
If you would like free and confidential support and assistance to help you develop practical skills to better manage your money, contact Welfare services.
Make a finance/welfare enquiry online.
ASKVU Find answers and ask questions
Phone: +61 3 9919 5400