Moving to Australia is an exciting step, but even the most well-prepared migrants are often surprised by the real cost of settling in. While most people budget for rent, groceries, and flights, there are several everyday expenses that don’t show up until you’re actually living here. These “hidden costs” can add up quickly, especially in your first six to twelve months. Here are the most common expenses new arrivals say they wish they had known about earlier.
1. Toll Roads and eTags
If you plan on driving in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane, toll roads are almost unavoidable. Unlike many countries where toll booths accept cash, Australian tolls are fully electronic.
This means you’ll need an eTag or an online pass, which automatically debits your account each time you drive through a toll point.
The cost varies depending on the city, but regular commuters can easily spend $60–$120 per week on tolls alone. Factor this into your budget if you’ll be commuting to work or school.
2. Council Rates (for Homeowners)
If you eventually buy a home in Australia, you’ll be required to pay council rates. These are fees charged by your local council to cover rubbish collection, parks, roads, and community services.
Rates vary by suburb, but most homeowners pay $3,500–$5,000 per year. This is often forgotten when migrants plan their long-term budget, especially those moving from countries without equivalent property fees.
3. Car Registration and Insurance
Cars are not cheap to run in Australia. Once you buy a vehicle, you’ll need to pay:
- Car registration (rego), ranges from $600 to $1,200 per year, depending on the state
- Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance, required by law
- Comprehensive insurance if you want full protection
If you’re moving to a regional area where public transport is limited, these costs are almost unavoidable.
4. School Uniforms and Education Extras
Australia’s public schools are free to attend, but they are not free to run. Parents often pay for:
- School uniforms
- Stationery
- Excursions
- Sports days
- Device programs (such as iPads or laptops)
Most schools require students to wear a full uniform, and depending on the school, the initial setup can cost $300–$600, especially for families with multiple children.
5. Kids’ Extracurricular Activities
Australian families are heavily involved in sport and extracurricular activities. While this is fantastic for children’s development and social life, it can be expensive.
Popular sports like swimming, soccer, netball, cricket, and gymnastics often include:
- Registration fees
- Weekly sessions
- Uniforms
- Equipment
- Weekend games or competitions
It’s common for families to spend $300–$1,000 per child per year, depending on the activity.
6. Appliance & Voltage Differences
Australia uses 230V voltage and Type I plugs, which may not be compatible with appliances from other countries. While some electronics work with an adapter, many kitchen or household appliances cannot be used safely and need to be replaced.
This can mean unexpected costs when setting up a new home, especially for families arriving with international appliances that simply won’t work on Australian power standards.
Australia offers an exceptional lifestyle, but settling in comes with practical costs that aren’t obvious until you’re living here day-to-day. Understanding these hidden expenses can help you budget better, avoid surprises, and prepare for a smoother transition.
If you’re planning your move and want tailored advice, Australian Visa Advice can guide you through the process, from visa requirements to the real-life costs of starting your new life down under.
