Brisbane
UQ · QUT · Griffith · Bond
Studying in Brisbane?
Open your university's guide for a tailored plan and questions from students already there.
Fastest-growing city, lower cost than Sydney, warm year-round
Food & eating in Brisbane
Brisbane's largest Asian food precinct, about 15 min south of the city. Vietnamese, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese restaurants — most under $15 a meal, with full Asian supermarkets.
The most diverse dining area in Brisbane. Late-night options, Asian, Middle Eastern, and various cuisines. Good for weeknight meals out.
Multicultural and bohemian character. BYO restaurants bring prices down. Good for cheap lunch spots and independent cafes.
Held Saturday mornings at the Powerhouse, Newstead. Excellent fresh produce, local meats, and cheeses. One of Brisbane's best markets.
Great location on the river but note the 10–15% weekend surcharge — plan weeknight visits to save money.
Full Asian supermarkets in Sunnybank have competitive prices on staples like rice, noodles, sauces, and Asian vegetables.
What to do in Brisbane
Free river beaches open year-round, a short walk from QUT. One of Brisbane's best free spaces — swimming, walking, and weekend events all in one place.
1 hour by train from Brisbane. Beaches from Surfers Paradise to Burleigh Heads are accessible on a Go Card. Go to Burleigh over Surfers for a more relaxed experience.
Free. Best view over Brisbane, especially at sunset. 15 minutes by bus from the city. The Botanic Gardens at the base are also free and good for a study break.
1.5 hours north of Brisbane by bus or car. Noosa and Coolum Beach are quieter alternatives to Gold Coast. Good for a weekend trip.
Brisbane's warm subtropical climate makes outdoor activities practical year-round. More outdoor events, markets, and activities than southern cities.
Cost of living
Best suburbs for students
10 min to UQ by bus, lots of student share houses
Cultural hub, walkable CBD fringe, more expensive
Large shopping centre, good bus links to UQ and QUT
What will it cost you?
Based on your selections below. Estimates only.
Things Brisbane students wish they knew
Some Brisbane suburbs are in flood zones — always ask specifically about flood history before signing a lease. The 2022 floods affected many inner suburbs.
Summer storm season runs December–February. Storms arrive extremely quickly and intensely. Download the BOM Weather app and check it daily.
Brisbane is growing fast and rental prices have risen significantly. If you arrive in January for university start, have accommodation confirmed well in advance.
The CityCat ferry is the most scenic way to travel along the river and is included on your Go Card. The journey from St Lucia (UQ) to New Farm is particularly good.
Go Card gives 20% off standard fares. No student concession for internationals. The CityCat ferry is included on Go Card and scenic from St Lucia to city.
Full transport guide →Subtropical — warm and humid in summer (Jan: 30°C+), beautiful mild winters (Jul: 21°C). Storms in summer are intense.