Completing an internship abroad is definitely a priceless experience that will boost your international career, give you some extra confidence and improve the skills you may be lacking when looking for jobs. However, you may be wondering how much money you need to intern in Australia considering all possible variables, such as flights, accommodation, meals, transport and leisure. More than that: is it possible to intern on a budget? The answer is YES, it is possible to intern on a budget, and you only need some research and preparation so you can get started. Below are some tips and tricks to help you save before, during and even after your internship in Australia:

Before Your internship:

1 – Research the Program Options and Plan Ahead

There is a variety of Internship Programs available in Australia. Paid and unpaid internships, many fields and industries, different cities and internship durations. When choosing a suitable option, it is important to consider all of these aspects, as they will influence your budget. For example, shorter internships from 6 to 12 weeks tend to be cheaper than 6 or 12-month internships. If in doubt our team offers FREE consultations, where you can explore the different program options and find the most suitable for your profile and budget.

2 – Learn about Australian Cities and Living Costs

Internships for internationals are available Australia-wide, from the expensive Sydney and Melbourne to smaller cities and even remote locations that can offer a more affordable living experience. Make sure you research what Australian city is the best for you, considering not only your personality and lifestyle but also your budget. If you want to go cheaper, it may be smarter to consider a program outside the big capital cities. The Cost of Living Calculator by Insider Guides gives you an idea of how you can budget your expenses depending on your lifestyle and the city you choose.

3 - Create a Saving Goal and Stick to it!

Once you have decided which program and city is the right for you, create a savings account – and saving goals - based on your research and how much you anticipate you will be spending. This may sound super basic (and it is), but make sure you are focused and stick to your goals so you can reach the amount you need in time. Remember that you will be living in another country, and unexpected things could happen. Be prepared for any eventualities that may cross your way.

During Your Internship:

1- Find the Right Accommodation

It may be wise to be patient and wait to book your accommodation after your internship placement is confirmed. This way, you can try finding an accommodation option that is close to your Host Organisation – maybe even a walking distance from work. Public transport can be quite expensive in Australia so walking or cycling to your internship every day will help you save tons of money by the end of the program.

It is also important to understand what accommodation options are available in your city and choose the best to suit your budget. Australian Internships can help in your accommodation search. Speak with your Internship Program Supervisor (IPS), and they will help you out with the options available (homestay, student accommodation or shared place). You can also check our Accommodation page to find more information.

2 - Think about your Travel Expenses

When settling down, evaluate your routine and find the most suitable transportation for you. Sometimes, investing in a scooter or bike will be more beneficial. Depending on the location, public transport can be pretty expensive, so having one of these options could help you save tons of money by the end of the program. Check the transportation methods available and identify which one has the best cost-benefit.

3 - Organise Your Meals

Eating out and ordering delivery can add hundreds of dollars to your total internship budget. It is understandable that you want to eat out sometimes and explore the local cuisine, but these meals should be planned and not part of your daily routine, so try to define how much you are willing to spend on eating out and delivery expenses monthly and stick to it.

Signing up for customer loyalty programs such as Rewards (Woolworths) and Flybuys (Coles) will make you earn points when doing your groceries and get future discounts. On top of it, making some basic food preparations will make your life easier and help you to stay on a budget and save money for other expenses.

4 - Try a Part-time Job

Depending on your Australian visa, you may be allowed to have a part-time job on the side of your internship. Working Holiday Visa holders and Work Visa holders often benefit from the fact that they can work extra hours each week to earn some money – especially after hours with night shifts or weekend casual jobs. Agencies such as Sidekicker and Pinnacle People are an excellent way to do that as they offer single shifts you can choose according to your availability. This extra money may provide more comfort by allowing you to be more flexible with your expenses.

After Your Internship:

1 - Ask for Your Tax Refund

If you complete a paid internship program with Australian Internships, you may be able to get back part of the money you have invested in our programs in the form of a tax reimbursement. You need to lodge an Australian Tax return through our partner Taxback.com before you leave the country. The average income tax refund that customers get is AU$2,600!

2 - Bring Your Friend

You are still able to make money after your internship is finished! You receive AU$100 cashback for each friend you refer and apply for our programs successfully. There is no limit - if you refer 10 friends you get AU$1,000 cash in your account!

As you can see, there are many ways you can save and even earn money while you gain invaluable work experience in Australia. Boost your international career on a budget with Australian Internships!

3- Contact our Partner for Immigration services

As you may know, after their program many interns desire to stay in Australia. In order to get assistance and advice on your journey living in Australia and set up a migration path, we recommend and are proud to work with Lex Lawyers, an incorporated legal practice specialising in immigration and citizenship matters.