Australia’s second-largest city is home to ~5 million people drawn from more than 140 nations. Set on the Yarra River and the beaches of Port Phillip Bay, Melbourne regularly features in the world’s “most liveable cities” rankings thanks to its safe streets, green parks and legendary café culture.
🌏 Multicultural Lifestyle in a Snapshot
2,300+ cafés & restaurants serving every cuisine you can name.
Australia’s fashion & shopping capital – from Bourke Street Mall to Queen Victoria Market.
322+ free community events a year at Federation Square alone.
🌦️ Climate – Four True Seasons
Season
Months
Typical Daytime Range
Notes
Spring
Sep – Nov
12 – 22 °C
Wildflower blooms; changeable
Summer
Dec – Feb
28 – 32 °C (peaks > 40)
Hot days and occasional heatwaves
Autumn
Mar – May
12 – 20 °C
Crisp mornings, vivid foliage
Winter
Jun – Aug
10 – 15 °C
Cool, drizzly – pack a jacket
🚋 Getting Around – Myki, Trams & Trains
Melbourne runs the world’s largest urban-tram network.
Myki smartcard covers trams, trains and buses.
Daily fare cap (2025): A$11 full fare or A$5.50 concession (Zones 1+2).
Free Tram Zone: travel within CBD grid is free, but touch-on if going outside.
Plan trips & top-up at: ptv.vic.gov.au
🎉 Festival & Major-Event Calendar
Month
Highlight
Quick Fact
Jan
Australian Open Grand Slam
6–26 Jan 2025 @ Melbourne Park
Mar
F1 Australian Grand Prix
13–16 Mar 2025, Albert Park Circuit
Mar-Apr
Comedy Festival
690+ shows across 4 weeks
Year-round
Multicultural Festivals @ Fed Square
Diwali, Buddha’s Day, Thai Festival etc.
💰 Cost of Living – Weekly Accommodation
Type
Typical Cost (A$/week)
Hostels / Guesthouses
90 – 150
Shared rental room
95 – 215
On-campus residence
110 – 280
Homestay (meals incl.)
235 – 325
Private studio rental
185 – 440
Source: IDP / Study Melbourne
📦 Other Weekly Expenses
Item
Budget Range (A$/week)
Groceries & food
140 – 280
Utilities (shared)
10 – 20
Phone & Internet
15 – 30
Public Transport
30 – 60
Entertainment
80 – 150
Source: IDP / Study Melbourne
💡 Money-Saving Hacks
Cook at home; shop near market closing time for bargains.
Apply for Myki Student Concession to halve fares.
Many museums like NGV and ACMI offer free general entry.
