Accommodation Options & Cost of Living

When studying in Australia, international students must have approved accommodation arrangements. At The Cathedral School, our primary option is on-campus boarding, which provides a safe, supportive, and inclusive living environment.

Boarding at The Cathedral School

Boarding fees are inclusive of accommodation, meals, laundry, and supervision. This ensures that students can focus on their studies while enjoying a structured and caring community. We recommend that students also budget for personal spending money to cover incidentals, toiletries, clothing, and recreational activities.
View our Fee Schedule

Living with a Parent or Relative

As an alternative, international students may live with a parent or a Department of Home Affairs–approved relative while studying in Townsville. This option must meet the requirements set by the Department of Immigration.

Living in Townsville

Townsville is a welcoming and affordable regional city in North Queensland, known for its relaxed tropical lifestyle, strong education facilities, and access to the Great Barrier Reef and national parks.

Cost of Living

Compared with other major Australian cities, the cost of living in Townsville is relatively affordable, particularly for housing. While actual expenses will vary depending on lifestyle, students and families should consider:

    • Housing: Median weekly rent for a house is around AUD $520.
    • Groceries & Utilities: A single person typically spends about AUD $1,600 per month on food, utilities, and other essentials (excluding rent).
    • Transport: Costs vary depending on car use or public transport needs.
    • Insurance: Due to North Queensland’s tropical climate, insurance costs may be higher to cover natural weather events such as cyclones.

For more details about life in Townsville, visit:

Townsville City Council – Living in Townsville Study Townsville – Lifestyle

Resources

Study Programs

International Students

Study in tropical Australia. Explore programs ranging from one-term, to one-year, for students in Years 7 to 11. 

Summer School Program CRICOS Courses

Boarding at Cathedral

International Students

Boarding is a unique opportunity to live within and contribute to a strong community—building character, self-discipline, leadership, and initiative, while nurturing life-long friendships.

Boarding
Enquire
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