Guides
Budgeting in Australia when you are new here
Last updated .
Moving to Australia brings a new pay rhythm, new bills and new ways to pay. This guide covers the basics so your first few months feel less tight.
Pay cycles
Many jobs here pay weekly or fortnightly. Plan from payday to payday, not by calendar month. Plan your pay cycle.
Rent and bond
Landlords often ask for rent in advance and a bond before you move in. Ask for the exact amounts in writing and set them aside first.
Regular bills
Phone, internet, power and transport each come on their own schedule. Turn them into a per pay amount. Convert monthly bills.
Buy now pay later
Pay in 4 plans are easy to start and easy to stack. Count every instalment against the pay it falls in. Check your instalments.
Sending money home
Check today's reference rate before you send, then compare what each service says will arrive.
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Questions
Should I budget weekly or fortnightly?
Match your pay. If you are paid fortnightly, budget fortnightly.
What should I pay first each payday?
Rent and any bill with a fixed due date, then set aside money for the next ones. Spend what is left.
Is buy now pay later a good idea when I am new?
It can help with a one off cost, but several plans at once can take a big share of each pay. Add them to your budget before you agree.
Where can I check the rate before sending money home?
CurrenSee shows today's reference rate for AUD to NPR and AUD to INR. Your provider's rate and fees decide what actually arrives.