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Australia is one of the most popular destinations for law students from Malaysia and across Asia. Its law degrees are globally recognised, and many graduates go on to practise in Australia, Malaysia, Singapore and beyond.
However, before you apply, you need a clear picture of the cost of studying law in Australia. This guide breaks down tuition fees, living expenses, Visa charges and other hidden costs. As a result, you can plan your budget with confidence.
Why This Matters
Law is one of the more expensive degrees in Australia. Tuition fees for International Students often sit above those for arts, science or business courses. In addition, law programmes tend to run for four to five years. Therefore, small yearly differences can add up to tens of thousands of dollars over the full course.
Understanding the total cost also helps you compare universities fairly. For example, a cheaper city may offset higher tuition fees. Similarly, a scholarship at one university may make it more affordable than a lower-fee course elsewhere. In short, knowing the numbers puts you in control of your decision.
Tuition Fees for Law Degrees in Australia
Tuition is the largest part of the cost of studying law in Australia. Fees vary by university, degree type and study length. The table below shows typical annual fees for International Students in 2026.
| Degree Type | Typical Duration | Annual Fee | Estimated Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Laws (LLB) | 4 years | A$ 40,000 – A$ 55,000 | A$ 160,000 – A$ 220,000 |
| Combined degree (e.g. Arts/Law, Commerce/Law) | 5 years | A$ 40,000 – A$ 55,000 | A$ 200,000 – A$ 275,000 |
| Juris Doctor (JD) | 3 years | A$ 45,000 – A$ 60,000 | A$ 135,000 – A$ 180,000 |
| Master of Laws (LLM) | 1 – 2 years | A$ 40,000 – A$ 55,000 | A$ 40,000 – A$ 110,000 |
Fees at Group of Eight universities, such as the University of Melbourne, the University of Sydney and UNSW, sit at the higher end. In contrast, universities such as Deakin, Griffith, La Trobe and Western Sydney University usually charge less. These universities still offer accredited law degrees that lead to admission to practice.
Keep in mind that most universities raise fees by 3% to 5% each year. Consequently, you should budget for increases across the full length of your course.
Living and Other Costs
Tuition is only one part of the picture. Your living costs, Visa fees and health cover also add to the total cost of studying law in Australia.
Living Expenses
The Australian Department of Home Affairs currently requires students to show at least A$ 29,710 per year for living costs. In practice, real spending depends on your city and lifestyle. Sydney and Melbourne are the most expensive. Meanwhile, Adelaide, Perth, Brisbane and regional cities are noticeably cheaper.
| Expense | Monthly Estimate |
|---|---|
| Accommodation (shared or student housing) | A$ 800 – A$ 1,800 |
| Food and groceries | A$ 400 – A$ 600 |
| Transport | A$ 100 – A$ 200 |
| Utilities and phone | A$ 150 – A$ 250 |
| Textbooks and study materials | A$ 100 – A$ 200 |
| Entertainment and personal | A$ 200 – A$ 400 |
| Total | A$ 1,750 – A$ 3,450 |
Visa and Insurance
Costs After Graduation
Graduating with a law degree does not automatically qualify you to practise. To become a lawyer in Australia, you must complete Practical Legal Training (PLT). This course usually costs A$ 9,000 to A$ 13,000. After that, you apply for admission, which involves a further fee of around A$ 900 to A$ 1,000.
Tips to Consider When Choosing a Law School
Every student has a different budget and goal. Nevertheless, a few principles apply to almost everyone considering the cost of studying law in Australia.
FAQ: Cost of Studying Law in Australia
Summary
The cost of studying law in Australia is significant, but it is also predictable. Tuition ranges from A$ 40,000 to A$ 60,000 per year, depending on the university and degree type. Living costs add another A$ 20,000 to A$ 35,000 per year, with Sydney and Melbourne at the top of the scale. Visa fees, health cover and Practical Legal Training round out the budget. Above all, comparing the total cost across degree length, city and scholarship options will help you find the right fit.
Need help comparing law schools or estimating your budget? The AUG Student Services team offers free consultation on course selection, applications and scholarships. Get in touch with AUG to start planning your law degree in Australia.
