Life in Melbourne
Melbourne is a multicultural city where people from all over the world have come to study, work and live in harmony. Melbourne is known for its diverse culture, art and history. It is also the home of some of the best food and coffee the world has to offer. Around every corner in Melbourne there is something new and exciting, making it the perfect place for students to immerse themselves in the culture of Australia.
Enjoy free public festivals and events, art galleries, live performances and plenty of restaurants and cafes. Melbourne is full of things to do for fun. Watch a game of Australia Football League (AFL) at the world-famous Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) or go shopping at the historic Queen Victoria Market – or you might want to spend a day at Melbourne Zoo or the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Our students' stories
Discover Cece's journey
When CeCe arrived in Australia for the first time to study her Bachelor or Communication, Public Relations at Deakin University, she overcame many challenges. Utilising the support services offered by Deakin University and her support network of new friends, CeCe now enjoys all the things Australia has to offer, feeling confident and at home.
Discover Nisarga's journey
Studying a Master of Information Technology at Deakin University, Nisarga, with the support of her father and family has made the most of her experience studying in Australia. Now working as a software engineer, Nisarga enjoys Melbourne life with her supportive group of friends she has made at Deakin and in her time in Australia.
What it is like to live in Melbourne
Getting around
The extensive public transport network of trains, trams and buses in Melbourne can take you anywhere you need to go in the city and beyond.
The Deakin Burwood Campus features a bus terminal with regular buses running from surrounding suburbs to Campus. There is also a tram stop directly in front of the campus making travel from Melbourne’s city centre easy for students.
Cycling is a good option for students travelling to and from campus. Many Melbourne roads have bicycle lanes and there are multi-use trails connecting major parts of the city.
Learn more about transport in Melbourne
Making friends
If you are looking to meet like-minded students, get involved in Deakin University’s Student Association (DUSA). Getting involved in clubs and societies is a great way to make new connections and friends. DUSA is full of international students looking to make the most of their experience studying in Melbourne, just like you.
Join a supportive network of students and experience all the great festivals, events and tourist attractions Melbourne has to offer, together.
For students looking to meet new people outside of university, Melbourne has clubs and groups to make you feel at home. Community groups, sports teams, clubs and places of worship are just a few of the many ways you can integrate into Melbourne.
Cafes and restaurants
Melbourne is famous for its coffee culture and diverse range of restaurants and cafes. Melbourne and its surrounding suburbs feature countless local cafes and multicultural restaurants, each with their own variety of amazing food and drinks. For those who prefer to stay on campus, Deakin’s Burwood Campus also features a variety of cafes and places to eat.
Arts, culture and heritage
Melbourne is full of rich culture and history. You will find famous historic buildings like the State Library of Victoria and Flinders Street Station. Melbourne also has famous art galleries and museums for students looking to immerse themselves in the culture and history. Performers from all over the world come to Melbourne to perform at the many theatres and stadiums. Students can enjoy musicals, theatre, concerts and some stand-up comedy, often at a price discount for students. There are also free events and festivals most weekends.
Working
As a thriving city, Melbourne is full of opportunity both for part-time employment while studying or for work placements as part of your degree. Deakin’s career and employment service DeakinTALENT offers career advisors that can help you find the perfect job or internship.
After graduation, Australia’s generous post-study work rights mean you may be able to stay in Melbourne and continue in your job.
Accommodation and cost of living
The cost of accommodation, transportation and general living expenses will need to be considered while staying in Melbourne. Students live off campus or live right on campus in our campus accommodation. Deakin can provide guidance to all our students on finding accommodation and managing their costs.
Within one year in Melbourne, it has become a second home for me because of the welcoming and positive vibe of the city and its amazing people...with so many cultures living together with harmony in Melbourne, it has created an amazing buzz and feel in the city.
Muhammad, Pakistan
Master of Marketing
Study Melbourne
Study Melbourne is a fantastic resource to discover more about studying, living and working in Melbourne. They also offer upskilling and career development programs specifically designed for international students.
Deakin's Melbourne Burwood Campus
Deakin’s Melbourne Campus is in the suburb of Burwood. Just a short trip from Melbourne’s central business district, Burwood offers the perfect balance between city lifestyle and suburban comfort. On campus you will find impressive buildings and world-class facilities in a relaxed atmosphere. If you enjoy getting outdoors between classes, the campus also sits alongside beautiful parkland.
Get help or contact Deakin
Our friendly advisers are available to speak to you one-on-one about your study options, support services for international students and how we can help you study at Deakin in Australia.
Phone: +61 3 9918 9188