phd cheap australia

10 PhD scholarships in Australia for 2022

Australia has been a perennial favourite destination among international PhD candidates: cutting-edge facilities, well-regarded universities with robust global rankings and dynamic research culture. Little wonder many seek PhD scholarships in Australia.

Home to six of the world’s top 100 universities, this country is one of the world’s education powerhouses. These universities offer almost every major possible, which is another attractive incentive.

At the same time, an Australian PhD takes on average three and a half years to complete; with research supervisors who strive to ensure students complete their PhDs on time and successfully. The high emphasis placed on education in Australia should assure that the quality of an Australian PhD is not compromised as well.

All of the above, however, do not come cheap. Melbourne has “one of the world’s wildest and most expensive real estate markets .” Sydney was recently ranked the most expensive city in Australia and 14th most expensive globally, thanks to its astronomical property prices, living costs, transportation and telecommunications.

University tuition fees are not cheap either. That is why in order to attract the best talents from all over the world, the government and universities listed below have created the following PhD scholarships in Australia for international students:

Australian National University – Australian Government Research Training Programme (AGRTP) International Fee Offset Scholarship

Australian National University is the top-ranked university in Australia (QS World Ranking 2021). Located in Canberra, this research-intensive university is well-known for its research expertise and strong industry partnerships.

These generous Australian PhD scholarships include living stipend and tuition fees coverage as well as health insurance cover, making them one of the world’s best PhD scholarships. Source: Sonny Tumbelaka/AFP

This particular PhD scholarship – provided by the Australian governmen t – covers three years’ tuition fees with two possible six-month extensions, and overseas student health cover for the student and their immediate family. You should contact your prospective supervisor beforehand to discuss your research topic; the deadline is Apr. 15 if you plan to study in 2022.  

University of Sydney International Scholarship

The University of Sydney is consistently one of the world’s top 50 universities, thanks to its excellent teaching and research. Offering Australia’s widest range of academic programmes, students at this university can participate in the latest research projects as well.

This International Scholarship – covering both tuition fee and stipend scholarships via the Australian Government Research Training Programme – is worth 35,629 Australian Dollars (2021 rate). Note that it has four research periods – however, the submission deadline is Sep. 30, 2022 should you apply in Research Period 1 and 2, 2023.

China Scholarship Council-University of Melbourne PhD Scholarship

Ranked 33rd in the world, the University of Melbourne has an enviable network of research platforms that enable its student researchers to have access to some of the best research infrastructure. Their vibrant community of alumni and leading academics allows you to access industry-integrated learning and networking opportunities there as well.

This PhD scholarship – for citizens of the People’s Republic of China only – is provided by both the China Scholarship Council and the University of Melbourne; the former will contribute to return airfares, living stipend of 22,800 Australian dollars per year (2020 rate) and visa application fees. The latter provides a full fee tuition scholarship up to four years and a supplementary living allowance of AU$10,200 per year (2021 rate).

University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarship

All international students can apply for this PhD scholarship without needing to fill in a separate form. When you apply for a graduate course at University of Melbourne, you are automatically considered for this scholarship . 

Scholarship winners will get AU$31,200 (2021 rate) as a living stipend for three and a half years, a relocation grant of AU$3,000 if they are from overseas, and Overseas Health Student Cover. The Fee Offset Scholarship will pay your tuition fees for up to four years.

Monash University Graduate Research Scholarship

Monash University is a member of the prestigious Group of Eight – a group of Australian universities with excellent teaching and research – with six locations in the state of Victoria. Not only is it ranked 58th by QS World University Rankings 2022, but it is also the most innovative university in Australia within the Asia-Pacific region (Reuters, 2019) too.

Working while completing a PhD is impossible, which is why these PhD scholarships in Australia are created. Source: William West/AFP

This scholarship is worth AU$30,000 per year, covering living costs and an additional relocation grant of AU$1,500. The application deadline is Mar. 31, 2022. This can be tied in with the Monash International Tuition Scholarship which covers tuition fees and Overseas Health Student Cover – the deadline application is Mar. 31, 2022 as well.

University of South Australia – William T. Southcott Scholarship

The University of South Australia is famous for having its research rated at or above world-class levels due to its expert supervisors and cutting-edgefacilities. If you are interested in pursuing a PhD in Practical Engineering, this university is offering the William T. Southcott Scholarship . 

It is valued at AU$32,000 per annum for a maximum of three years or three and a half years with an extension which is granted in extremely rare circumstances. As it is linked to a relevant research project – which will commence in 2022 – please contact the Graduate Research Team for further information. 

University of Queensland Earmarked Category 1 PhD project scholarship

The University of Queensland is ranked among the top 50 globally by the Performance Ranking of Scientific Papers for World Universities, 46th in the QS World University Rankings and 66th in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. Such illustrious rankings are due to innovative research that contributes to life-changing advances, combined with its world-class teaching and research facilities.

This university has Earmarked Category 1 PhD projects within four broad areas; you may apply for the scholarship – which covers both tuition fees and living costs – given by the Australian government for these projects . You should aim to apply before Mar. 31, 2022 .

University of Queensland – PhD Scholarship for Bioresorbable Metals for Intraoperative Ligation Clips: In Vitro and Biomechanical Engineering Experiments

This PhD position is available at the School of Mechanical and Mining Engineering, which forms part of the CranioFacial programme within the Herston Biofabrication Institute (HBI). This is a collaborative project between the University of Queensland and the HBI.

Get in touch here for further information if you meet the minimum application requirements. This scholarship is valued at AU$28,854 per year (2022 rate) for three and a half years with a possible extension; the deadline is Jan. 9, 2022.

University Technology Sydney International Research Scholarship

Located in the heart of Sydney with a culturally diverse campus, University Technology Sydney is an inclusive public university of technology. Despite their young age – established in 1988 – the university is one of Australia’s largest universities.

This particular PhD scholarship – with an aim to attract international students of high calibre to drive UTS’s research arm – will pay for your tuition fees for up to three years. The deadline is Jan. 15, 2022.

Flinders University – Cooperative Research Centres Projects (CRC-P) Grant: PhD Scholarship in Material Science and/or Civil Engineering

Flinders University is among the top 2% of world universities (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022). Located in Bedford Park, south of the city of Adelaide, its main teaching and research campus is home to over 26,000 students.

This particular PhD – a partnership between Flinders University and the University of Melbourne – includes a living stipend of AU$28,854 per year (2022 rate) for three years with a possible extension.

All in all, these PhD scholarships are great choices especially if you have been planning to study in Australia in 2022.

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How to get a PhD

Study tips Published 5 Apr, 2022  ·  4-minute read

Trying to wrap your head around how PhD programs work? We don’t blame you. Sometimes it feels like you need a PhD just to figure out how to get a PhD.

So, with a little help from our academics and some UQ PhD candidates, we’ve broken down the application and preparation process into 10 manageable steps:

• Complete prior research
• Choose your topic
• Find a PhD supervisor
• Write your PhD proposal
• Identify potential scholarships
• Gather required documents and apply
• Determine if you'll continue working during your PhD
• Calculate how long you’ll be researching your PhD
• Develop the traits and behaviours of a good PhD student
• Apply and get accepted

Let’s discuss how to get a PhD in Australia – from choosing your topic to getting stuck into the actual research.

1. Complete prior research (if necessary)

You don’t necessarily need a master’s degree to start a PhD. However, you do need to have completed extensive research. This might involve an academic research program (such as a bachelor's degree with an honours year or a Master of Philosophy ), research conducted in your professional career, or a combination of both. The important thing is that you can demonstrate experience in conducting effective research, as this is a key part of the PhD selection criteria.

Learn more about doing a PhD without a master's degree

2. Choose your topic

Whether you’re developing a thesis on a topic you’ve already worked on or branching out into a new area of interest, you’ll want to know early what kind of topic you want to research for your PhD. Finding a niche that sparks your curiosity is important for ensuring you’ll stay inspired during the 3+ years ahead.

Keep in mind that you generally have two options here. You can complete a PhD by:

• joining an existing research project in an area that interests you 
• start a fresh research project that aligns with your specific goals.

Get tips for choosing your PhD topic or explore available research projects at UQ

3. Find a PhD supervisor

One of the essential steps to consider when thinking about how to get a PhD is finding someone to guide you through the process.

Approaching academics about your PhD can be intimidating, but shortlisting and selecting the most appropriate person / team to supervise your research project is important. By choosing your mentor carefully, you can ensure you’ve got someone in your corner who understands your research, has relevant expertise, and will be there to support you throughout your journey.

Learn how to find the right PhD supervisor

4. Write your PhD proposal

Check with your supervisor to see if they require a formal PhD proposal (most will, but not all). If so, with their guidance, it’s time to put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard).

Even if your supervisor doesn't explicitly ask for one, a PhD proposal is a valuable document for outlining the scope of your research and giving your project its initial momentum – so it might be worth writing one either way.

Learn how to write a good PhD proposal

5. Identify potential scholarships

Dedicating yourself to research sometimes means sacrificing your income in the short term, though it can lead to more financial security in the long term . To help support yourself during your studies, you can apply for PhD scholarships and funding.

Learn how to get a PhD scholarship

6. Gather required documents and apply

It’s time to jump online and do the official application process. Aside from your research proposal, you should also prepare to provide your:

• academic CV
• academic transcript
• degree certificate(s)
• English language documents (if needed)
• ID (such as a passport)
• two references / letters of recommendation from people who can comment on your research experience.

  Learn how to apply online for a UQ PhD

7. Determine if you'll continue working during your PhD

Some PhD candidates continue doing part-time or casual work while completing their research. However, this isn't easy and may not be feasible in most cases; it takes serious time-management skills to juggle any kind of job alongside a full-time PhD. So, think carefully about whether you’d like to keep working in some capacity or commit your attention fully to your research.

Learn more about working while doing a PhD

8. Calculate how long you’ll be researching your PhD

To complete your PhD within the standard 3.5-year* timeframe, you'll need to be organised with a clear project plan. Of course, the very nature of research is that you'll discover unexpected things and take unplanned detours along the way. So, your plan should include contingencies for any obstacles you might hit to ensure you still complete your research on time. 

*In special cases, you may be able to request an extension of your tuition for up to 4 years, but that is the maximum time allowed for a PhD.

Explore how long a PhD takes

9. Develop the traits and behaviours of a good PhD student

We know you’ve already got what it takes, but there are some skills and attributes you could cultivate or practise to make your upcoming journey a little smoother. Between writing your proposal and meeting with potential supervisors, be sure to set some time aside to work on yourself as well.

Discover what makes a good PhD student

10. Apply and get accepted

All the preparation is done. You’ve equipped all the gear, chosen your guide and mapped out your route. It's time to apply and set the wheels in motion.

Submit your PhD application

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Related stories

How to decide on a PhD topic

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How to get a PhD scholarship or funding

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15 Cheapest Universities in Australia for International Students

In Australia, there are a lot of affordable universities that you can find. Enrolling in these schools will help you fulfill your dream of studying in Australia without paying a lot. These institutions also provide well-rounded academic programs and curriculums, allowing students to earn a degree with less burden on their pockets.

Now, if you’re planning to study in Australia , you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 42 universities . But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Australia, make sure to read more!

Cheap Bachelor's Colleges and Universities in Australia for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Australia ordered by their tuition fee for international bachelor's students.

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 30,800 AUD for universities in Australia.

1. University of Tasmania

• International Bachelor's Tuition: 12,000 AUD to 37,950 AUD
• Domestic Bachelor's Tuition: 3,950 AUD to 14,500 AUD
• University of Tasmania Admissions Pages
• University of Tasmania Tuition Pages

As one of Australia’s oldest institutions, the University of Tasmania (UTAS) acknowledges and takes pride in its rich history, even promoting indigenous culture and life on campus. UTAS offers many outstanding undergraduate and graduate programs that can surely engage students’ minds and broaden their learning experience.

2. University of Divinity

• International Bachelor's Tuition: 14,112 AUD to 16,620 AUD
• Domestic Bachelor's Tuition: 14,112 AUD to 16,620 AUD
• University of Divinity Admissions Pages
• University of Divinity Tuition Pages

Based in Melbourne, Australia, the University of Divinity specializes in theology, spirituality, philosophy, and divinity. It comprises eleven colleges from different Christian denominations spread across the country. The institution is one of the oldest in Victoria and continues partnerships with around thirty churches.

3. Federation University Australia

• International Bachelor's Tuition: 18,000 AUD to 32,700 AUD
• Domestic Bachelor's Tuition: 3,985 AUD to 14,630 AUD
• Federation University Australia Admissions Pages
• Federation University Australia Tuition Pages

Federation University Australia is a public institution in Victoria that welcomes more than 20,000 students every year. Five campuses – Ballarat, Berwick, Brisbane, Gippsland, and the Wimmera – composed the university. Its nine schools offer a variety of courses, including degree and vocational.

4. Central Queensland University

• International Bachelor's Tuition: 18,960 AUD to 36,960 AUD
• Domestic Bachelor's Tuition: 3,984 AUD to 14,630 AUD
• Central Queensland University Admissions Pages
• Central Queensland University Tuition Pages

Central Queensland University comprises 13 campuses and several study centers, making it one of Australia’s largest universities. It is also one of the country’s best, consistently part of the top-ranked universities worldwide. The university offers several courses through its seven schools and one college.

5. Charles Sturt University

• International Bachelor's Tuition: 20,800 AUD to 32,128 AUD
• Domestic Bachelor's Tuition: 3,968 AUD to 14,624 AUD
• Charles Sturt University Admissions Pages
• Charles Sturt University Tuition Pages

Charles Sturt University is a leading university in Australia and across the globe. Its primary goal is to equip students with adequate knowledge and necessary skills by providing cutting-edge programs lectured by qualified instructors and industry professionals. Because of this commitment, the institution has become one of the frontrunners in producing highly employable graduates.

6. Australian Catholic University

• International Bachelor's Tuition: 23,400 AUD to 40,656 AUD
• Domestic Bachelor's Tuition: 3,944 AUD to 14,496 AUD
• Australian Catholic University Admissions Pages
• Australian Catholic University Tuition Pages

Australia Catholic University is part of the top 2% of best universities in the world. It welcomes more than 33,000 students annually, including international students. The institution is composed of several campuses across Australia, plus one online and another one in Rome.

7. University of the Sunshine Coast

• International Bachelor's Tuition: 24,400 AUD to 29,600 AUD
• Domestic Bachelor's Tuition: 3,984 AUD to 14,624 AUD
• University of the Sunshine Coast Admissions Pages
• University of the Sunshine Coast Tuition Pages

The University of the Sunshine Coast has an impressive portfolio as one of Australia’s highly praised universities in providing exemplary teaching quality and satisfying students’ overall experience. As a regionally recognized school, this assures that the university prioritizes its higher education quality. With a yearly increase in local and international students, this young university has made its presence known in the regional and global community.

8. Torrens University Australia

• International Bachelor's Tuition: 25,120 AUD to 30,880 AUD
• Domestic Bachelor's Tuition: 17,520 AUD to 26,160 AUD
• Torrens University Australia Admissions Pages
• Torrens University Australia Tuition Pages

Torrens University Australia is a private university that offers a wide range of study options. It began its operation in 2012 and is now regarded as the country’s fastest-growing university. Through excellent academic instruction, Torrens aims to develop highly employable graduates who are ready to work anywhere in the world.

9. Charles Darwin University

• International Bachelor's Tuition: 25,328 AUD to 32,336 AUD
• Charles Darwin University Admissions Pages
• Charles Darwin University Tuition Pages

One of the sought-after universities in Northern Australia is Charles Darwin University. It is a truly unique university as it offers educational degree programs and vocational education and training. And with several campuses across major cities in Australia, this innovative university has made it easier and more accessible for domestic and international students interested in pursuing an education in their institution.

10. Avondale University

• International Bachelor's Tuition: 26,056 AUD to 34,736 AUD
• Avondale University Admissions Pages
• Avondale University Tuition Pages

Associated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Avondale University offers a wide range of academic programs for undergraduate and graduate degrees. They have highly accredited programs and innovative educational facilities on the campus. Since they are a part of a Seventh-day educational system, they aim to foster their students’ spiritual and psychological growth while building their professions.

11. Western Sydney University

• International Bachelor's Tuition: 26,240 AUD to 33,040 AUD
• Western Sydney University Admissions Pages
• Western Sydney University Tuition Pages

Western Sydney University (WSU) is a reputable Australian public university. It is based in Sydney’s Greater Western region. Furthermore, it is known as a leading center of excellence in the country. Other than that, WSU is also popular worldwide as it is included in various global rankings’ top 400 higher education institutes.

12. University of Southern Queensland

• International Bachelor's Tuition: 26,320 AUD to 35,280 AUD
• Domestic Bachelor's Tuition: 3,950 AUD to 14,630 AUD
• University of Southern Queensland Admissions Pages
• University of Southern Queensland Tuition Pages

The University of Southern Queensland offers hundreds of courses. The institution welcomes more than 27,000 students every year through its four locations: Toowoomba, Springfield, Ipswich, and Hub@Stanthorpe. It is among the best universities for graduate studies, based on student satisfaction and graduate starting salary.

13. University of Wollongong

• International Bachelor's Tuition: 26,592 AUD to 37,356 AUD
• University of Wollongong Admissions Pages
• University of Wollongong Tuition Pages

The University of Wollongong (UOW) is a public institute of tertiary studies. It is located in the Illawarra region’s famous city of “The Gong.” Moreover, UOW is known not just in Australia, but worldwide, for being a top center of learning that utilizes modernized techniques in education and research.

14. University of New England

• International Bachelor's Tuition: 26,880 AUD to 31,600 AUD
• University of New England Admissions Pages
• University of New England Tuition Pages

The University of New England, which you should not confuse with the one in the United States, started as a part of the University of Sydney. Since its independence in 1954, the institution has established itself to be a leading university. Hundreds of courses are being offered by its three faculties.

15. Murdoch University

• International Bachelor's Tuition: 27,112 AUD to 32,880 AUD
• Murdoch University Admissions Pages
• Murdoch University Tuition Pages

Murdoch University is a public institution in Perth, Australia. Besides the one in Perth, they also have Rockingham, Mandurah, Dubai, and Singapore campuses. The university, highly regarded based on student assessments, offers many courses that provide research and industry experience.

Cheap Master's Colleges and Universities in Australia for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Australia ordered by their tuition fee for international master's students.

* Average Master’s International Tuition is 30,200 AUD for universities in australia.

1. University of Divinity

• International Master's Tuition: 16,392 AUD to 18,384 AUD
• Domestic Master's Tuition: 16,392 AUD to 18,384 AUD

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, University of Divinity should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 16,392 AUD to 18,384 AUD annually for their master's degree.

2. Charles Sturt University

• International Master's Tuition: 20,800 AUD to 33,216 AUD
• Domestic Master's Tuition: 16,000 AUD to 31,200 AUD

3. University of Queensland

• International Master's Tuition: 21,288 AUD to 62,880 AUD
• Domestic Master's Tuition: 21,600 AUD to 36,960 AUD
• University of Queensland Admissions Pages
• University of Queensland Tuition Pages

One of the most prestigious universities in Australia is the University of Queensland. This internationally recognized institution started its humble beginnings in 1909. And at present, it enjoys its position as one of the leading and top-ranked universities globally. It has been providing top-quality teaching and research in higher education and has generated outstanding graduates that have been successful in different industry sectors.

The tuition fee at University of Queensland for incoming international master’s students is 21,288 AUD to 62,880 AUD. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. Western Sydney University

• International Master's Tuition: 21,420 AUD to 38,400 AUD
• Domestic Master's Tuition: 29,920 AUD to 32,880 AUD

Another affordable university to consider in Australia is Western Sydney University.

The tuition fee in Western Sydney University for master’s program for foreign students starts from 21,420 AUD.

5. Griffith University

• International Master's Tuition: 22,500 AUD to 45,500 AUD
• Domestic Master's Tuition: 16,000 AUD to 38,500 AUD
• Griffith University Admissions Pages
• Griffith University Tuition Pages

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Griffith University has some of the lowest tuition fee prices for foreign students who are planning to take a master's degree here. International master's students only pay as low as 22,500 AUD yearly.

Griffith University is a top-ranked public institution in Brisbane, Australia. It is part of the world’s top 2% universities, a testament to its academic and research excellence. Its six campuses – Digital, Gold Coast, Logan, Mount Gravatt, Nathan, and South Bank – welcome around 50,000 students.

6. Federation University Australia

• International Master's Tuition: 22,700 AUD to 31,100 AUD
• Domestic Master's Tuition: 23,800 AUD to 32,800 AUD

7. Torrens University Australia

• International Master's Tuition: 22,800 AUD to 34,480 AUD
• Domestic Master's Tuition: 21,600 AUD to 33,984 AUD

8. University of Western Australia

• International Master's Tuition: 23,300 AUD to 50,800 AUD
• Domestic Master's Tuition: 22,500 AUD to 43,160 AUD
• University of Western Australia Admissions Pages
• University of Western Australia Tuition Pages

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is a public educational institution. Its main campus is situated in the vibrant city of Perth. While it was founded in 1911, it officially opened its doors to students in 1913. Today, it is known as one of Australia’s highly distinguished centers of learning known for its impactful research and high-quality education.

9. Australian Catholic University

• International Master's Tuition: 23,400 AUD to 32,320 AUD
• Domestic Master's Tuition: 21,080 AUD to 33,417 AUD

10. University of the Sunshine Coast

• International Master's Tuition: 26,000 AUD to 29,800 AUD
• Domestic Master's Tuition: 18,120 AUD to 24,696 AUD

11. Avondale University

• International Master's Tuition: 26,056 AUD to 78,168 AUD
• Domestic Master's Tuition: 19,080 AUD to 57,240 AUD

12. Central Queensland University

• International Master's Tuition: 26,400 AUD to 35,520 AUD
• Domestic Master's Tuition: 21,624 AUD to 28,008 AUD

13. Macquarie University

• International Master's Tuition: 26,400 AUD to 53,600 AUD
• Domestic Master's Tuition: 22,000 AUD to 40,800 AUD
• Macquarie University Admissions Pages
• Macquarie University Tuition Pages

Known to be one of the best higher education institutions in Australia, Macquarie University also belongs to the top 1% of universities all across the globe based on the major World University Rankings. It excels in both research and specialized teaching for the different subject areas it offers. With superb facilities and exceptional opportunities, the students will definitely have a great study experience at this university.

• International Master's Tuition: 26,880 AUD to 33,856 AUD
• Domestic Master's Tuition: 19,504 AUD to 36,000 AUD

15. University of Southern Queensland

• International Master's Tuition: 26,880 AUD to 47,040 AUD
• Domestic Master's Tuition: 22,560 AUD to 38,880 AUD

Frequently Asked Questions

1. how do i get admission to affordable universities in australia.

Applying to cheap universities in Australia requires you to complete different requirements depending on your degree and chosen university. These usually include admission forms, language proficiency scores, and a visa. Check out our full guide to studying in Australia for a more comprehensive guide!

2. What can I study at Best affordable universities in Australia?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Australia. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Australia is the Australian Catholic University , which offers Accounting and Finance, Applied Public Health, and Arts to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Australian Catholic University offers Health Professional Education, Teaching, and Business Administration (Executive).

It's important to take a look at all your options when selecting where to attend post-secondary school. With so many different types of schools, degrees, and universities in Australia, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

So, make sure to explore the best public universities in Australia as well if you're looking for affordable education!

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Affordable Universities in Australia for International Students

Last updated: 17 January 2024 Student Finance

Australia is one of the most popular study destinations in the world, offering international students a unique experience that cannot be found anywhere else. According to the Australian Government Department of Education, the number of international students studying in Australia is around 746,080 from January to September 2023. Still, the question that many potential students may be asking before applying is, "Can I afford it?".

Thankfully, many affordable universities in Australia offer courses and programs, such as entry pathways, diplomas, bachelor’s, master’s, and research courses in specialisations like business, engineering, healthcare, law, and education.

If you’re overwhelmed by the choices available and need expert guidance regarding studying in Australia and the university selection process, why not arrange a free consultation with SI-Australia today? Our education consultants will take you through your study options and expenses and help you decide which next step is the right one.

Low Cost Universities in Australia for International Students

Australian universities offer affordable education to international students in different forms, such as scholarships, financial grants, and other aid. Additionally, many universities offer lower tuition fees as compared to other countries. Also, Australia's living costs are affordable in certain places, such as Gold Coast and Canberra. 

1. University of Southern Queensland

The University of Southern Queensland is a public research university that received university status in 1992 in Brisbane, Australia. It is one of the low-cost universities in Australia offering courses in business, law, and engineering. Up until now, the university has over 110,000 alumni dispersed around 146 countries across the globe. The tuition fees for international students vary depending on each course's study level and subject area. International tuition fees are set by the university and are reviewed annually. 

• Location: Brisbane, Australia
• International tuition fee range: $36,000 - $78,480
• Popular courses: Business and Economics, Computer Science

2. Charles Darwin University

Charles Darwin University is a public university established in 2003 with a campus in Darwin and eight satellite campuses in some metropolitan and regional areas. CDU is a member of the group of seven Innovative Research Universities in Australia and offers academic degrees and vocational training. The university believes in the transformative power of training, education, and research to change people’s lives. 

• Location: Ellengowan, Dr. Casuarina, Australia
• International tuition fee range: $26,776 - $33,480
• Popular courses: Accounting, Arts and Humanities

3. Federation University of Australia

Federation University of Australia is a multi-sector public university that received its university recognition in 1994. It is Australia's fourth oldest tertiary education institution, offering courses in education, science, and health. The university provides course-based annual fees, which students are charged for each semester they enrol. However, it is renowned for its cost-effective education options, making it a popular choice for international students. 

• Location: Ballarat, Victoria, Australia
• International tuition fee range: $22,300 - $31,600
• Popular course: Engineering and Performing Arts

4. University of Sunshine Coast

Established in 1996, the University of Sunshine Coast is a public university that ranks second in Australia for overall education experience. The university offers pathway, undergraduate, and postgraduate programs in medical and health sciences, arts and international studies, law, criminology, and engineering. Thus, USC combines quality education with a lower cost of living, making it an attractive option for students looking for affordable universities in Australia. 

• Location: Sippy Downs, Queensland, Australia
• International tuition fee range: $66,600 - $76,800
• Popular course: Biomedical Science, Commerce

5. Southern Cross University

Southern Cross University is a public university with campuses at Lismore and Coffs Harbour in northern New South Wales and Coolangatta of Gold Coast in Queensland. It is also ranked among the top 100 young universities in the world by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. Southern Cross University provides affordable education with a comfortable lifestyle. 

• Location: East Lismore, Australia
• International tuition fee range: $28,000 - $33,184
• Popular course: Science, Health, Laws

6. Central Queensland University

The Central Queensland University is a public university established in 1967 in Queensland, Australia. It ranks among the top two per cent for graduate employability. CQU offers programs in various disciplines, including apprenticeship, trades and training, accounting, law, and visual arts, at low-cost tuition fees for international students. 

• Location: Queensland, Australia
• International tuition fee range: $13,560 - $67,050
• Popular course: Engineering and Aviation, Visual Arts

7. University of Wollongong

The University of Wollongong is an Australian public research university established in 1951 in Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia. It is globally recognised for delivering impactful research that positively impacts society. The university offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and vocational arts, humanities, engineering, and healthcare studies with affordable tuition fees. In addition, UOW ranks 70th among the world’s universities for social and economic impact in THE Impact rankings. 

• Location: Wollongong, Australia
• International tuition fee range: $32,112 - $80,544
• Popular course: Engineering, Nutrition

8. Western Sydney University

Western Sydney University is a top public university established in 1989 in Penrith, Australia. It is a world-class university with a growing international approach and a reputation for academic excellence. The university focuses on equipping students to be workplace-ready by responding to workplace challenges. If we talk about the fees, Western Sydney University offers affordable and competitive tuition fees for international students pursuing bachelor's and masters. 

• Location: New South Wales, Australia
• International tuition fee range: $26,240 - $33,000
• Popular course: Accounting, Architectural Design

9. Edith Cowan University

Edith Cowan University is one of the most affordable universities in Australia for international students. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in areas such as business, education, engineering, law, nursing, and psychology. ECU has a reputation for providing high-quality education at an affordable cost, making it a popular choice for international students. Also, the cost of living in Perth is lower than other cities in Australia, making it an attractive option for those seeking an affordable university experience.

• Location: Perth, Australia
• International tuition fee range: $30,200 - $33,900
• Popular course: Information Technology, Law

10. La Trobe University

La Trobe University is a public research university established in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. It is one of the top universities in Australia , ranking 242nd in the QS 2024 rankings. The objective of La Trobe University is to embrace the power of equality, diversity, and inclusivity. Besides, the university is known for its affordable tuition fees (especially master’s degrees) with a research-oriented approach. 

• Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
• International tuition fee range: $20,000 - $34,600
• Popular course: Business and Management, Engineering

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If your research is based internationally but you want access to UTS's world-leading researchers and reputation, you've been required to complete a PhD for your career but you don't want to relocate, or you want to expand your global networks to create real-world research impact, the PhD by distance mode might be right for you. 

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‘The cheap option’?: why the Gold Coast may be on track to build the most expensive light rail in the world

Limiting reliance on the private sector, hiring foreign experts, and improving contracting transparency could be ways to keep costs down, experts say

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L ight rail is as much a fixture of the Gold Coast as bikinis or boogie boards; the attractive yellow vehicles trundling up and down the coast suit the place so well it feels as if they’ve been there much longer than their decade in service.

As in Queensland’s second city, light rail has sprung up in Canberra, the Sydney CBD, Parramatta and Adelaide. Similar “trackless trams” are soon opening in Perth and Brisbane. One of the only places there aren’t plans is Melbourne, home to the world’s largest tram network. Around the country, there has been a proclaimed renaissance in light rail .

On opening in 2014, the Gold Coast light rail was an immediate success . Public transport patronage jumped by 32% in the first three years, even before stage two opened in 2017. At the 2018 Commonwealth Games , the G:link zipped 100,000 passengers a day around the glitter strip in its distinctive yellow carriages.

“Since the year 2000 almost 200 cities [around the world] have introduced new tramways and I can confidently say Gold Coast light rail has been one of the most successful,” said the GoldLinQ chair, John Witheriff, in 2021 , after 10 years of operation. GoldLinQ is the private consortium contracted to finance, design, build, operate and maintain the network for 18 years.

Transport planners are attracted to light rail because, without the need for tunnelling, it’s cheaper and more deliverable. All you need is a wide road.

Urban planners like it because it can unlock higher-density, high-amenity developments – without the traffic jams.

And politicians like it because it can be done on a lower budget. Until it can’t.

Last month the Queensland transport minister, Bart Mellish, released a preliminary business case that estimated stage four of the 40km G:link network could cost up to seven times more than stage one, for the same length of track.

The business plan estimated the 13km stretch of track will cost between $3.13bn and $7.6bn. If it does hit the top cost estimate, the project may be the most expensive light rail project of its type, per kilometre, on the planet.

As one transport expert said: “Queenslanders should ask why we’re expecting to pay Ferrari prices for a Subaru.”

‘Light rail used to be regarded as cheap’

Alon Levy, co-lead of the transportation and land use program at New York University’s Marron Institute, has spent years studying why some countries are able to build transport infrastructure cheaply and others aren’t.

Though the preliminary business case of the expansion of Gold Coast light rail includes few details, Levy estimates that the project may ultimately cost as much as 10 times more than comparable European infrastructure.

The middle cost estimate for the next stage of the light rail, of $343m a kilometre or $4.5bn in total, would be expensive in Europe even for a fully underground subway with all the trimmings, according to Levy’s estimates.

At this middle cost, the final stage of the Gold Coast light rail would also be the most expensive comparable Australian project ever designed, 20% more costly than the Sydney CBD and south-east light rail schemes, the current record-holder . It would be up to 11 times as expensive as Canberra’s first light rail line stage (completed 2019), which is 1km shorter.

Transport economist Neil Douglas pointed to Auckland’s proposed underground light rail system as an example of the sort of project that runs off the rails. It was costed at NZ$1bn for each of its 24 kilometres, before it was cancelled, he says.

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Douglas has evaluated and peer reviewed transport projects across Australia and agrees the Gold Coast project’s estimated costs are high. He says “construction costs are now ludicrous”.

“It defies the point of it, because light rail used to be regarded as the cheap option for rail,” he says.

Levy says there is an endemic problem in what he calls “the peripheral Anglosphere”.

“We’re seeing the same things in Australia, Canada, and to the extent that there’s enough data there, New Zealand is just a steady increase in costs,” they say.

“Often, it’s just a matter of shared institutional factors.”

Those include, Levy says, a lack of contracting transparency, over-engineering, politicisation, poor allocation of cost risk – and above all, contracting out to the private sector.

Private sector efficiency and a ‘delusion’

Scott Elaurant, a transport planner and 35-year veteran of the industry, says the most efficient place he ever worked is the Queensland department of main roads in the 1980s.

The state government had a steady supply of work planned years or decades in advance, with economies of scale, zero profit margin, and extremely low borrowing and insurance costs to manage risk. It contracted out discrete technical tasks to private firms, but routine tasks like project management were done in-house.

But in the 80s, governments started hiring private firms to do project management. The thinking was that the government was slow and old-fashioned and if the entrepreneurial private sector was given the job it could do things better, cheaper, faster. The idea was much less popular in mainland Europe.

Elaurant says the idea was simply wrong.

“This desire to have just simple competition on lowest fixed lump sum price was based on the delusion that the private sector is better at managing risk than government,” Elaurant says. “I’ve worked on both sides; I have no ideological preference. But I have seen no evidence of that in my entire career.”

Contracting can also mean hollowing out. Many transport engineers, planners and economists spoken to for this story said the public sector bureaucracy no longer has the skills to complete infrastructure projects in-house.

That means governments have little choice but to hire a private expert firm to act as “lead contractor” – responsible for the entire job, not just a small part of it. The lead contractor then sub-contracts to the same specialist firms the department once did.

Dependence on private sector contractors can create its own problems . The federal Labor government has ordered the commonwealth bureaucracy to set targets for banishing their use in core business , bringing skills and knowledge back in house.

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Melbourne Law School senior fellow Kiri Parr says small government can also prove to be less-informed government as well.

If the government is managing a project at arm’s length, it is likely to have less information about the infrastructure than the lead contractor, she says. The contractor is in a position to exploit that to its advantage.

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Parr says the “very few, very large contractors who can deliver these very large projects”, are largely concerned about commercial risk: “Can I make money on the project?”

“One way or another, the government agency pays the bills.”

Gold Coast-based Griffith University transport researcher Prof Matt Burke says the cost of fixing up utilities – like water piping or power lines – was adding so much complexity and cost to Australian transport projects that many sector academics believe it’s time to consider not upgrading the utilities, even if it means passengers will be delayed by flooding in the future. Canberra’s light rail line – which bucked the trend and delivered under-budget – is known to have been stingy about funding utilities upgrades.

Burke also wants a more healthy contracting environment, with more players.

Projects are now so complex and expensive, he says, only a handful of companies can afford to bear the weight of risk in order to bid for them, driving prices up more. In Queensland, there are just two companies the government can pick from, CPB and Thiess John Holland.

“It’s not the same as a truly competitive market with five infrastructure bidders competing in one space,” he says.

“We don’t have a market like that. Market concentration is a real problem.”

What can we do better?

Levy argues the upper cost estimate in the Gold Coast preliminary business case – intended to prevent cost overruns – virtually guarantees it.

Contractors will aim their bids at the publicised figure.

“7.6 guarantees 7.6.”

Levy says if Australia wants to get better at building public transport, it needs governments to hire many people with the technical skills to build it. In France, for example, the Parisian public transport agencies employ thousands of engineers, project managers, economist and other experts – and contract them out to smaller regional centres for their own projects at low cost.

“If Queensland is too small for this, it’s OK to set up a system in which New South Wales does it and other states pay at-cost to New South Wales,” Levy says.

Several transport experts said Australia should hire foreign experts to work as project managers, who are likely to be trained in more efficient processes.

A spokesperson for the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads said the central $4.5bn figure “represents a preliminary cost estimate only and the final cost would be subject to completion of the detailed business case”, while the range of cost estimates published – from $3.13bn to $7.6bn – allows for “unknown risks, which will be further clarified and updated in the detailed business case”.

The detailed business case is due for completion in late 2025.

The spokesperson said the major differences of stage three compared with previous, cheaper sections of the light rail include “the length, two major creek crossings and bridge works, alignment within an international airport, and the width of the Gold Coast Highway corridor.

“Finally, costs increase over time. This can be seen in the comparison between stage one and three. The stage two alignment did not travel through as much urban corridor compared to stage one and three so its cost is not comparable.”

Elaurant says that the answer is not to give up on public transport. Without good cost control, he argues, Queenslanders will lose faith in rail transport.

That means projects like high speed rail, or improved suburban rail, may lie forever out of reach.

“We can build a light rail system with the capacity of a six-lane freeway for about two-thirds the price of the six-lane freeway. And yet we still get a lot of six-lane freeways. So obviously people are making decisions on things other than price,” Elaurant says.

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