- The Australian Bureau of Statistics confirms food prices rose 2.2% in the 12 months to April 2026, with meals out and takeaway up 3.7%
- The Australian government's living cost requirement for Student Visa (Subclass 500) holders is AU$29,710 per year
- A single international student cooking at home typically spends AU$350 per month on food.
What Is the Average Cost of Food in Australia in 2026?
In 2026, the average cost of food in Australia ranges from AU$80 to AU$150 per week for a single person. International students cooking at home typically spend around AU$350 per month on food, while those eating out regularly can expect to pay AU$500 to AU$650 monthly. Food prices overall rose 2.2% in the 12 months to April 2026.
Australia is one of the world's most popular destinations for international students, but it does come with a notable cost of living. Food is one of the biggest daily expenses students face, alongside accommodation and transport. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics Consumer Price Index, food inflation has continued to rise into 2026, making careful budgeting essential for anyone planning to study in Australia.
The good news is that with smart shopping habits and home cooking, international students can manage food costs comfortably within their overall budget. The Australian government's minimum living cost requirement of AU$29,710 per year accounts for food, accommodation, transport, and other personal expenses combined.
Full breakdown of living costs for international students in AustraliaRead →How Much Do Groceries Cost Per Week in Australia?
A single person in Australia spends AU$80 to AU$150 per week on groceries. A standard shopping basket includes milk at AU$2.20 per litre, bread at AU$3.60 to AU$4.00, and eggs at AU$4.50 to AU$5.20 per dozen. Buying at Aldi or Coles and choosing home-brand products can reduce weekly grocery costs significantly.
Australia's major supermarket chains include Woolworths, Coles, and Aldi. While Woolworths and Coles are the most widespread, Aldi consistently offers lower prices on staple items. International students who plan meals in advance and buy in bulk can keep their weekly grocery bill closer to AU$80. Those with more varied diets or who purchase specialty items may spend up to AU$150 or more per week.
| Grocery Item | Average Price 2026 |
|---|---|
| Milk (1 litre) | AU$2.20 |
| Bread (standard loaf) | AU$3.60–AU$4.00 |
| Eggs (12 pack) | AU$4.50–AU$5.20 |
| Rice (1 kg) | AU$2.50–AU$4.00 |
| Chicken breast (1 kg) | AU$8.00–AU$12.00 |
| Potatoes (1 kg) | AU$2.50–AU$3.50 |
| Apples (1 kg) | AU$3.50–AU$5.00 |
| Flat white coffee (cafe) | AU$6.00–AU$7.00 |
How Much Does Eating Out Cost in Australia?
Eating out at a casual restaurant in Australia costs AU$20 to AU$30 per meal in 2026. A fast-food combo meal is around AU$15, and a cafe coffee costs AU$6 to AU$7. A mid-range dinner for two runs AU$80 to AU$120. The ABS reports meals out and takeaway prices rose 3.7% in the 12 months to April 2026.
Eating out frequently in Australia can quickly strain a student budget. While fast food and food courts offer affordable options, the cost of a cafe meal or restaurant dinner adds up over time. Students who limit eating out to a few times per week and cook most meals at home can significantly reduce their monthly food expenditure.
| Dining Option | Average Cost Per Person 2026 |
|---|---|
| Fast food combo meal | AU$15 |
| Cafe breakfast or brunch | AU$15–AU$25 |
| Casual restaurant main | AU$20–AU$30 |
| Mid-range dinner (per person) | AU$40–AU$60 |
| Three-course dinner for two | AU$80–AU$120 |
| Fine dining (per person) | AU$100–AU$250 |
What Is the Monthly Food Budget for International Students in Australia?
International students in Australia should budget AU$300 to AU$600 per month for food. Students who cook at home regularly spend around AU$350 monthly, while those who eat out often can spend up to AU$650. The Australian government requires students to show AU$29,710 per year for all living expenses, which includes food costs.
Food typically accounts for 15 to 25 percent of a student's total monthly budget in Australia. The remaining costs go toward accommodation, transport, health insurance (OSHC), and personal expenses. Students in shared accommodation with access to a full kitchen are best placed to manage food costs efficiently. Many universities and student communities also run affordable meal programs or food banks to support students facing financial pressure.
How Do Food Costs Vary Across Australian Cities?
Food costs vary by city in Australia, with Sydney and Melbourne being the most expensive. Students in Sydney pay roughly 10 to 15 percent more for groceries and dining compared to Brisbane or Adelaide. Regional areas and outer suburbs generally offer more affordable food options, making them attractive for budget-conscious international students.
While Australia's major cities are the most popular study destinations, students in regional universities or campuses in outer suburbs benefit from noticeably lower food and living costs. Cities like Adelaide and Brisbane offer a lower cost of living compared to Sydney and Melbourne, without sacrificing quality of education or lifestyle.
| City | Estimated Monthly Food Budget 2026 |
|---|---|
| Sydney | AU$500–AU$750 |
| Melbourne | AU$480–AU$700 |
| Brisbane | AU$400–AU$600 |
| Perth | AU$380–AU$580 |
| Adelaide | AU$380–AU$560 |
| Regional Australia | AU$300–AU$480 |
What Are the Best Tips to Save on Food Costs in Australia?
Students can reduce food costs in Australia by cooking at home, shopping at budget supermarkets like Aldi, and choosing home-brand products. Meal prepping for the week, using student discount apps, and visiting weekend farmers markets for fresh produce are also effective ways to manage your food budget in 2026.
- Cook meals at home — a student cooking at home spends around AU$350 per month versus AU$650 for those who eat out regularly
- Shop at Aldi — consistently cheaper than Woolworths and Coles on staple items like bread, dairy, and frozen goods
- Buy home-brand or generic products — typically 20 to 40 percent cheaper than branded equivalents
- Meal prep for the week — batch cooking on weekends reduces both cost and time during busy study weeks
- Use student discount apps such as Student Edge or UNiDAYS for deals at select cafes and restaurants
- Visit farmers markets on weekends for fresh fruit and vegetables at lower prices than supermarkets
- Take advantage of university food pantries or subsidised meal programs available at most Australian campuses
- Compare unit prices rather than pack prices when shopping — buying in bulk is not always cheaper