Exchange in Melbourne in 2025: What you need to know
Do you dream of studying and working in one of Australia's most cosmopolitan cities? Melbourne combines exceptional quality of life, cultural diversity and unique academic opportunities that make this metropolis the perfect destination for your exchange. Discover why thousands of Brazilians choose Melbourne to transform their careers and lives through an unforgettable international experience.
Why Melbourne is the ideal destination for exchange students
Melbourne isn't just a city — it's a complete experience that transforms lives. Recognized worldwide for its excellence in education and quality of life, the capital of Victoria offers a unique environment where tradition and modernity meet. With more than 5 million inhabitants of different nationalities, Melbourne provides an authentic cultural immersion that accelerates the learning of English and develops essential intercultural skills in the globalized market.
The city stands out for its efficient public transportation infrastructure, allowing students to move easily between campus, work, and housing. The famous free tram system in the city center makes it easy to explore the diverse neighborhoods, each with a unique personality - from the artsy Fitzroy to the elegant South Yarra.
Study and work opportunities in Melbourne
The program Study and Work in Australia offers unique flexibility for exchange students. With courses starting at 16 weeks, students can work up to 48 biweekly hours during the academic period and up to 40 hours a week during school holidays. This work permit represents a valuable opportunity to:
- Develop international professional experience in sectors such as hospitality, retail and tourism
- Practice English in a real environment with Australian and international colleagues
- Partially finance the studies with the highest minimum wage in the world (AUD 24.10 per hour)
- Build a professional network for future career opportunities
Sectors with high demand for exchange students
Melbourne presents several employment opportunities for international students:
- Hospitality and tourism: Restaurants, cafés, hotels and tourist attractions
- Retail: Local stores, malls, and markets
- Customer service: Call centers and multicultural support
- Events: Assistance at festivals, fairs and corporate events
- upbringing: Portuguese teaching and assistance in bilingual schools
Cost of living and financial planning
Understanding the cost of living is essential for proper planning. Melbourne offers excellent value for money when we consider local salaries and the quality of life provided.
Main monthly expenses:
- Shared accommodation: AUD 800-1,200 (room in house divided)
- Food: AUD 400-600 (including occasional outside meals)
- Public transport: AUD 180 (monthly student pass)
- Leisure and entertainment: AUD 300-500
- Health Insurance (OSHC): AUD 45-55
Important tip: With part-time work (48 biweekly hours), it is possible to cover between 60-80% of the monthly costs, making the experience financially feasible.
Best regions to live in Melbourne
Choosing the right neighborhood directly impacts your Melbourne experience. Each region offers specific advantages for different exchange student profiles:
City Center (CBD)
Advantages: Proximity to schools, work, and transportation Average cost: AUD 1,000-1,400/month Ideal for: Who prioritizes convenience and urban life
Fitzroy and Collingwood
Advantages: Young atmosphere, vibrant nightlife, alternative culture Average cost: AUD 900-1,200/month
Ideal for: Students who value art, music, and diversity
South Yarra and Toorak
Advantages: Stylish area, close to parks and upscale nightlife Average cost: AUD 1,100-1,500 per month Ideal for: Those looking for a more refined environment
Richmond and Prahran
Advantages: Good connectivity, dining options, moderate prices Average cost: AUD 850-1,100/month Ideal for: Balance between cost and quality of life
Carlton and Brunswick
Advantages: University environment, proximity to educational institutions Average cost: AUD 800-1,000/month Ideal for: Students who prioritize academic environment
Education system and academic opportunities
Melbourne concentrates some of the best educational institutions in Australia, offering programs that combine academic excellence with practical preparation for the labor market. The Australian education system favors active methodologies, group work, and practical projects that develop essential skills for the 21st century.
For those seeking higher education, the program University abroad offers access to renowned institutions with international recognition. Universities in Melbourne stand out for:
- Practical methodology: Integration between theory and real application
- International diversity: Students from over 100 countries
- Connections with industry: Partnerships with leading companies
- Student support: Full assistance for international students
Melbournian climate and lifestyle
Melbourne is famous for having “four seasons in one day”, providing a diverse climate experience that keeps the city always interesting. The temperate oceanic climate offers:
Summer (December-February): Temperatures from 14°C to 25°C, perfect for outdoor activities Fall (March-May): Mild climate and stunning landscapes with golden leaves
Winter (June-August): Temperatures from 6°C to 14°C, ideal for exploring museums and cafés Spring (September-November): Renewing the city with festivals and cultural events
Coffee culture is an essential part of Melbournian identity. The city is home to more than 2,000 coffee shops, many hidden in small laneways that have become cultural icons. This culture provides excellent job opportunities for exchange students, in addition to being a perfect environment for practicing English in everyday situations.
Transportation and urban mobility
Melbourne's public transport system is considered to be one of the best in the world, making life significantly easier for exchange students. The integrated system includes:
Trams
- Largest tramway network in the world with more than 250 km of trails
- Free zone in the center (Free Tram Zone) for tourism and short trips
- Efficient connection between main neighborhoods and universities
Metropolitan trains
- 16 lines connecting Melbourne to distant suburbs
- Regular frequency During peak times
- Full integration with other means of transport
Bus
- Perfect complement for areas not covered by trams and trains
- Night routes for safety at alternative times
Financial tip: The Myki Student Pass offers a significant discount, costing approximately AUD 180 per month for unlimited access to the entire system.
Cultural life and entertainment
Melbourne is recognized worldwide as Australia's cultural capital, offering a rich cultural agenda that significantly enriches the exchange experience:
Unmissable annual events
- Melbourne International Comedy Festival: Largest comedy festival in the Southern Hemisphere
- Australian Open: One of the four Grand Slams in world tennis
- Melbourne Cup: “The race that stops the nation” with a public holiday
- White Night: Art festival that transforms the city for an entire night
Art and culture
- Famous Laneways: Internationally recognized street art
- Free museums: Immigration Museum, Melbourne Museum with free admission
- Theaters and music: Princess Theatre, Sidney Myer Music Bowl and hundreds of live music venues
Diversified cuisine
Melbourne offers one of the most diverse dining scenes in the world, with influences from over 100 different cultures. For exchange students, this means:
- Job opportunities in ethnic restaurants where they can use native languages
- Cultural experience through the cuisine of different countries
- Affordable prices at food courts and local markets like Queen Victoria Market
Visa process and documentation
To study and work in Melbourne, Brazilians must apply for the Student Visa (subclass 500), which allows for permanence throughout the course and limited work. The process includes:
Essential documents
- Valid passport valid for at least 6 months
- Certificate of Proficiency in English (IELTS, TOEFL or equivalent)
- Oil menu of the educational institution (COE)
- Financial proof Demonstrating a capacity to sustain
- OSHC health insurance mandatory for the entire duration of the visa
- Medical exams when requested by immigration
Application process
The Australian visa can be applied for online through the ImmiAccount system, with typical 4-6 weeks of processing. It's important to start the process well in advance to avoid delays.
Health and well-being
The Australian healthcare system offers excellent quality and safety for international students. The Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory and guarantees:
- Basic medical appointments with full or partial coverage
- Hospital care In emergencies
- Prescribed medications with significant discounts
- Ambulance (varies by state)
Melbourne has an extensive network of public and private hospitals, as well as community clinics that offer care in different languages, making it easier for exchange students to adapt.
Practical tips for the first month
The first month in Melbourne is crucial to establish a solid foundation for the entire exchange experience. Some essential strategies include:
Fundamental first steps
- Open bank account: ANZ, Commonwealth, and Westpac offer specific accounts for students
- Get Tax File Number (TFN): Essential to work legally
- Set up cell phone plan: Optus, Telstra, and Vodafone have student plans
- Register at school: Complete enrollment and learn about student support
Networking and social integration
- Participate in orientation programs: All schools offer integration programs
- Join Brazilian groups: Active communities on Facebook and WhatsApp
- Attend free events: Libraries and community centers organize regular activities
- Explore meet-ups: Apps like Meetup connect people with similar interests
Social integration is fundamental not only for emotional well-being, but also for job opportunities, as many vacancies are posted through personal networks.
Professional growth opportunities
Melbourne offers a unique environment for professional development that goes far beyond part-time work. The city is home to the regional headquarters of multinational companies, innovative startups and a diversified business ecosystem that values international talent.
For those seeking specialized higher education, the program Pathway for university entry offers a structured route to access renowned Australian universities, preparing students with the academic and language skills necessary for success in higher education.
Growing sectors
- Tech: Melbourne is considered Australia's tech capital
- Health and Biomedical Sciences: Medical Research and Innovation Hub
- upbringing: High demand for multilingual professionals
- Sustainability: Growth in renewable energy and environmental consulting
- Creativity: Design, advertising, and creative industries
Preparation before the trip
Proper planning before departure can make all the difference in the exchange experience. Essential elements include:
Financial preparation
- Detailed budget: Calculate total costs including emergencies
- International account: Facilitate transfers and access to funds
- International credit card: For online shopping and emergencies
Academic and linguistic preparation
- Improving English: Even at an intermediate level, refinement is always beneficial
- Cultural research: Understanding Australian customs and expectations
- Academic documentation: Organize school certificates and transcripts
Those seeking language improvement before traveling may consider the program Learning a language abroad, which offers specific preparation to maximize international experience.
Be Easy
A Be Easy is your ideal partner to make your exchange dream in Melbourne a reality. Our expert team offers full support from initial planning to your arrival in Australia, ensuring a safe and successful experience. With over a decade of experience and hundreds of satisfied students in Melbourne, we provide personalized guidance for each stage of the journey. Contact us today and discover how we can make your exchange in Melbourne a transformative and unforgettable experience!
