Sydney is big, beautiful, and... expensive. For international students, choosing the right suburb isn't just about rent—it's about community, jobs, and support.
At Right & Associates, we have strategically placed our offices in the three hubs where most international students live. Here is your guide to surviving and thriving in Sydney’s key student zones.
What to Explore?
1. Parramatta: The "Second CBD"
- Vibe: Fast-paced, multicultural, and booming with jobs. Parramatta is the capital of Western Sydney.
- Community: Huge Indian and Nepali communities. You will find grocery stores selling your favorite spices and festivals like Diwali and Dashain celebrated openly.
- Rent: Moderate ($250 - $400/week for a room).
- Our Presence: Our Parramatta Office (Charles St) is right here to help you with course changes or 485 visas without you needing to travel to the city.
2. Rockdale: The St George Hub
- Vibe: Relaxed, coastal feel, and very close to the airport.
- Community: Highly popular with Nepalese and Filipino students. The "Rockdale Plaza" area is a common meeting spot.
- Rent: Affordable to Moderate ($220 - $350/week).
- Our Presence: Our Rockdale Office (Princes Highway) is a community landmark. We often see students dropping in just to say hello!
3. Sydney CBD: The Heart of the Action
- Vibe: Skyscrapers, universities (UTS, Sydney Uni), and endless nightlife.
- Jobs: Best for hospitality and corporate internships.
- Rent: High ($400+ per week). Pro Tip: Live in a nearby suburb like Wolli Creek and train in.
- Our Presence: Our Head Office (Castlereagh St) handles our most complex legal appeals and migration cases.
Cost of Living Hack 2025
To save money:
- Transport: Use your Opal card off-peak.
- Food: Shop at local markets in Rockdale/Parramatta rather than big CBD supermarkets.
- Jobs: Use your 48-hour work rights wisely. Hospitality jobs in the CBD often pay penalty rates on weekends.