Moving out of home for the first time is exciting — no more curfews, no one judging your laundry pile, and total freedom to decorate however you like. But once the thrill wears off, the reality hits: independence isn’t cheap. Whether you’re eyeing a share house or student accommodation Brisbane has to offer, the costs can add up quickly. Knowing what to expect (and how to prepare for it) can save you serious stress.
First Things First: Upfront Costs
Before you even unpack your first box, you’ll need to cover several one-off expenses:
- Bond or security deposit: Usually four weeks’ rent upfront. This is held as insurance in case of property damage or unpaid rent.
- First two weeks’ rent: Most landlords or accommodation providers require this in advance.
- Utilities connection fees: Setting up electricity, gas, and internet may come with setup charges.
- Moving costs: Whether you hire movers or bribe friends with pizza, transporting your stuff isn’t always free.
If you’re moving into a furnished space, you’ll save money on buying essentials. If not, budget for the basics — bed, desk, chair, cookware, and maybe a vacuum if you’re feeling responsible.
Monthly Expenses You’ll Need to Cover
Once you’re settled in, ongoing expenses start to roll in. These will form the bulk of your monthly budget:
- Rent: The biggest cost by far. Shop around and compare not just price, but what’s included — some options roll in water, internet, or electricity.
- Utilities: If not included in rent, electricity and internet can run $50–$100+ per month each depending on your usage.
- Groceries and toiletries: Start with a weekly budget. A little planning goes a long way here — think bulk buying and cooking at home.
- Transport: Whether it’s a Go Card top-up or petrol, don’t forget to factor in how you’ll get around.
- Insurance: Contents insurance is optional but wise — especially if you’ve got a laptop, phone, or other valuables.
Hidden or Easy-to-Forget Costs
It’s easy to plan for the obvious stuff. But it’s often the smaller or unexpected costs that throw people off. Keep an eye out for:
- Laundry costs: If you don’t have in-unit machines, coin laundry adds up fast.
- Kitchen basics: Things like cling wrap, bin liners, dish soap — none of these are expensive alone, but collectively they matter.
- One-off surprises: Things break. Lightbulbs blow. You’ll need band-aids eventually. Have a mini “stuff happens” fund just in case.
How to Build a Realistic Budget
Budgeting isn’t about restriction — it’s about freedom. When you know your numbers, you avoid nasty surprises and gain more control over your money (and life).
Here’s a simple way to build your first budget:
- Write down your income: Include part-time work, Centrelink payments, or any other sources.
- List your fixed costs: Rent, bills, phone, transport — anything that doesn’t vary much month-to-month.
- Estimate variable spending: Groceries, social life, eating out, subscriptions.
- Set a savings goal: Even if it’s small, aim to save something regularly.
- Use a budgeting app or spreadsheet: Tools like Pocketbook or YNAB make this easier.
Ways to Save Without Missing Out
You don’t have to live off instant noodles to afford your own place. A few smart habits can stretch your dollar further:
- Share the load: Split internet, groceries, and cleaning supplies with housemates.
- Buy second-hand: Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, and op shops are gold mines for furnishings.
- Meal prep: Planning your meals for the week saves money and time.
- Track everything for the first few months: It’ll help you spot habits you can tweak.
Living Independently Doesn’t Have to Mean Financial Stress
Budgeting might not sound fun — but neither is getting hit with a bill you forgot about. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s preparation. Once you’ve got a grip on the numbers, you can actually enjoy your space, your freedom, and everything that comes with moving out.
A bit of upfront planning now will pay off later. So whether you’re setting up in a share house or exploring your options for student accommodation Brisbane has to offer, take the time to build a plan. Future-you will be glad you did.
