This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies. Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Last week, the peak body for Australian universities called on the federal government to introduce concession cards and further discounts for all domestic university students. Universities Australia says the measures would ease cost-of-living pressures for students.
Under the proposal, international university students would also receive public transport concessions. It comes after the peak body released data in June showing that, since 2021, students' basic living expenses jumped by 29%. Universities Australia said this figure was "well above economy-wide inflation" of 24%.
Concession card holders in Australia need to meet certain eligibility requirements to receive them. These requirements might be based on low-income status, disability and age (for pensioners). There are also various concessions for veterans offering different benefits.
Concession card holders receive government-subsidized discounts for everyday necessities such as medicines, public transport and utility bills and, in some cases, car registration. Some domestic university students qualify for concession benefits through Health Care cards, Austudy, ABSTUDY or Youth Allowance. However, enrolling in university alone does not mean a student qualifies for these discounts.
For university students, eligibility for public transport discounts also differs between states. Many university students have to juggle the costs of tuition, housing, transport and groceries while usually working casual or part-time jobs. Research published in May found that one in three surveyed Australian university students experienced serious financial hardship.
My research with colleagues published last month mirrors these findings. We surveyed a nationally representative sample of 2,731 people aged 18–24 about their education, well-being and finances from 2021 to 2025. About 48% of participants were studying full time and 22% were studying part time in vocational education, university or another tertiary institution at the time.
Extract — continue reading at the source.
