Monthly Cost Breakdown (Family of 4)
| Expense | Sydney | Melbourne | Brisbane |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (3-bed apartment) | $2,800-3,600 | $2,200-3,000 | $2,000-2,600 |
| Groceries | $800-1,200 | $750-1,100 | $700-1,000 |
| Transport | $300-500 | $250-450 | $250-400 |
| Utilities (power, gas, water) | $350-500 | $400-550 | $300-450 |
| Internet + Mobile | $120-180 | $120-180 | $110-160 |
| Childcare (1 child, 3 days/wk) | $600-900 | $500-800 | $450-700 |
| TOTAL (approx) | $5,000-7,000 | $4,200-6,100 | $3,800-5,300 |
Childcare costs shown after CCS subsidy (approx 50-60% family income $120-150k). Before subsidy, childcare is $150-180/day.
Saving Money Tips
- Housing: Consider suburbs 30-40 min from CBD for 20-30% lower rent. Areas with good train access but further out offer the best value.
- Groceries: Shop at Aldi for staples, use Woolworths/Coles apps for half-price specials, buy meat on markdown late afternoon.
- Transport: Public transport is often cheaper than owning a car when you factor in registration ($400-700/yr), insurance ($800-2,000/yr), fuel, and parking.
- Utilities: Compare energy providers on the government Energy Made Easy website. Switching can save $300-500/year. Install LED bulbs and use timers on air conditioning.
- Childcare: Maximise your CCS by ensuring both parents meet the activity test. Consider family day care which is often $10-20/day cheaper than centres.
Income You Need
For a comfortable life in Sydney with two children, a combined household income of $150,000-180,000 is recommended. In Melbourne, $130,000-160,000 is comfortable. In Brisbane, $110,000-140,000 provides a good lifestyle. These figures assume renting rather than paying a mortgage, which would require significantly more.