Exploring Australia’s Student Discounts: How to Save Money on Budget
As a student in Australia, balancing academics with managing your finances can feel overwhelming. Thankfully, many businesses and institutions offer discounts exclusively for students. From transportation and technology to entertainment and food, there are countless ways to make your money stretch further. Here's a guide to the top student discounts that will help you save money while enjoying everything Australia has to offer.
1. Transport Savings: Cheap Travel Options
Australia's major cities have student-friendly transport schemes that make commuting more affordable. As a student, you can often get discounted travel passes or concession fares on buses, trains, and trams.
Opal Card (New South Wales) — Students in NSW can apply for a Concession Opal card, offering significant discounts on public transportation. You can also take advantage of travel caps, ensuring you won’t spend more than a set amount in a week.
Myki (Victoria) — In Melbourne, the Myki card provides concession fares for students on trains, trams, and buses. Be sure to carry your student ID, as you may need it to prove eligibility.
Translink (Queensland) — If you're studying in Brisbane or other parts of Queensland, you can enjoy student concessions with a go card on all Translink services.
2. Technology and Software Discounts: Stay Equipped for Less
Tech and gadgets are essential for students, but they can also be expensive. Luckily, many tech companies offer discounts on laptops, software, and accessories.
Apple Education Store — Apple offers education pricing on MacBooks, iPads, and accessories for students. They also provide free AirPods during certain promotional periods.
Microsoft Office 365 — Many Australian universities or institutions offer free or discounted Microsoft Office 365 subscriptions for students. Check with your university or institution to see if you're eligible.
Adobe Creative Cloud — If you're in need of design software for your studies, Adobe offers a hefty discount on its Creative Cloud suite for students.
3. Retail Discounts: Fashion and More for Less
Shopping for clothes, textbooks, or everyday essentials doesn't have to break the bank when you're a student.
UNiDAYS — This app is a goldmine for students looking for discounts at major retailers like ASOS, Apple, and Nike. Signing up is free, and you’ll get access to student-only deals.
Student Beans —Another fantastic app, Student Beans provides discounts at brands like The Iconic, General Pants Co., and more. Simply register using your student ID to unlock offers.
Textbook Rentals — Websites like Zookal and Jekkle allow students to rent textbooks at a fraction of the purchase price. Consider renting instead of buying to save even more.
4. Food and Entertainment Discounts: Enjoy More for Less
Eating out and having fun with friends is part of the student experience, but it can be costly. Luckily, Australia has plenty of student deals on food and entertainment.
Event Cinemas — Movie lovers can enjoy discounted tickets by showing a valid student ID at Event Cinemas. Keep an eye out for special student days where tickets are even cheaper.
Spotify and Apple Music — Both streaming platforms offer student plans at half the regular price, allowing you to listen to your favourite music without hurting your budget.
Food Chains — Many fast-food chains and cafes like Subway, McDonald’s, and Grill’d offer student discounts or special deals with valid student ID. Some local restaurants near campuses may also have student specials, so it’s worth asking!
5. Student Banking: Manage Your Finances Smartly
Opening a student bank account can help you avoid unnecessary fees and manage your finances effectively.
Commonwealth Bank — Commonwealth Bank offers a student account with no monthly account fees and the ability to access international funds if you're an international student.
ANZ — ANZ also provides a student account with no monthly fees, along with financial management tools to help you save.
Westpac — Westpac's Choice account for students offers fee-free banking with a handy savings app to help you manage your spending.
Final Tips for Making the Most of Student Discounts
Always Carry Your Student ID: Whether you're shopping, eating out, or commuting, always have your student ID handy. You never know when you might come across a student deal.
Sign Up for Discount Apps: Apps like UNiDAYS and Student Beans make it easy to access student offers in various categories. Signing up is free, and you'll get regular updates on deals.
Check with Your University: Many universities partner with local businesses to offer exclusive student discounts. Ask your university's student services about any available offers.
By taking advantage of these discounts, you can enjoy more of what Australia has to offer while sticking to your student budget. So, keep your eyes open for deals, and happy saving!