Study Agriculture in Australia
Australia is globally recognised for its innovation in agricultural sciences, with its ag-tech sector attracting over AU $250 million in investment in the recent past. This makes agriculture courses in Australia a smart choice for international students for both education and career growth. The country offers strong academic programmes, hands-on training, and job-focused learning, all in an English-speaking, student-friendly environment.
With world-class education in agricultural science and sustainability, high demand for agriculture professionals, opportunities for post-study work, priority migration pathways for agriculture-related occupations, and supportive visa policies, Australia provides an ideal destination for international students seeking quality education and promising career prospects.
Choosing to study Bachelor or Master of Agriculture Courses in Australia means gaining global skills in a country that values sustainability, research, and skilled talent.
Top Universities for Agriculture Courses in Australia
Australia is home to some of the world’s best institutions for agriculture and related disciplines. These universities offer a range of specialised agriculture courses in Australia, including agribusiness, sustainable farming, food technology, and animal science. Many also rank highly for research output and employability and offer excellent support for international students.
Here are top universities for pursuing Agriculture courses in Australia.
University of Melbourne
- Notable Programmes: Bachelor of Agriculture, Master of Agricultural Sciences
- Strength: Research-driven, strong sustainability and Agri-tech focus
University of Sydney
- Notable Programmes: Agricultural and Resource Economics, Sustainable Agriculture
- Strength: Integrated programmes combining agriculture with economics and policy
University of Queensland (UQ)
- Notable Programmes: Agricultural Science, Agribusiness, Food Technology
- Strength: Leading research in crop production and livestock science
Charles Sturt University
- Notable Programmes: Agribusiness, Animal Science, Viticulture
- Strength: Practical learning, industry placement, strong ties to the rural sector
University of New England (UNE)
- Notable Programmes: Agriculture, Precision Agriculture, Agronomy
- Strength: Affordable, strong community support for international students
All these institutions offer dedicated international student services, including academic support, career guidance, and help with Australia student visa or accommodation needs. If you are unsure where to begin, AECC can help you shortlist the right universities and guide you through your application, step by step.
Cost of Studying Agriculture Courses in Australia
The cost of studying agriculture in Australia depends on your course level and lifestyle. While tuition may seem high, many universities in regional areas offer lower living expenses and additional scholarships. Compared to countries like the UK or the USA, Australia offers excellent post-study work rights and more affordable regional options.
Given heavy tuition costs for international students, the Australian government allows them to work for up to 48 hours per fortnight, helping them manage the cost of living in Australia.
Agriculture Courses in Australia Tuition Costs
The tuition fees vary across universities and programme levels. Here’s a quick breakdown to give you an idea:
| Programme Type | University Name | Annual Tuition (in AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Degree | Charles Sturt University | AU $35,000 - $40,000 |
| University of Queensland | AU $45,760 | |
| Postgraduate Degree | University of Melbourne | AU $34,344 - $73,450 |
| Charles Sturt University | AU $32,000 - $35,000 | |
| Diploma/Certificate | University of Melbourne | AU $34,976 |
Living Costs by Region in Australia
Cost-effective cities for agriculture studies include Armidale (UNE), Wagga Wagga (CSU), and Gatton (UQ's agricultural campus), where students benefit from lower rent and community-based living.
| Region/City | Melbourne | Sydney | Adelaide |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (Monthly) | AU $425 - 825 | AU $1,000 - $2,500 | AU $580 – $1560 |
| Food & Groceries | AU $140 - $280 | AU $1,000 - $2,500 | AU $360 - $752 |
| Transport | AU $30 - $60 | AU $980 – $3,500 | AU $80 - $236 |
| Utilities | AU $80 - $150 | AU $130 - $800 | AU $60 - $160 |
| Total Monthly Cost | AU $675 - $1,315 | AU $3,110 - $9,300 | AU $1,080 - $2,708 |
Scholarships for Agriculture Courses in Australia
For international students pursuing agriculture courses in Australia, several financial aid options and scholarships can help reduce the financial burden. These scholarships in Australia are awarded based on merit, regional study location, or research potential, and are offered by both universities and the Australian government.
Australia Awards Scholarship
- Provider: Australian Government (Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade - DFAT)
- Value: Full tuition fees, return airfare, living stipend, establishment allowance, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
- Eligibility: International students from developing countries enrolled in undergraduate or graduate programmes
- Duration: One or more years
Arrow Energy Scholarship
- Provider: University of Queensland
- Value: Up to AU $8,000
- Duration: One year
- Eligibility: Honours and master's students at the Gatton campus
Pacific Seeds Agricultural Scholarship
- Provider: University of Queensland
- Value: AU $5,000
- Duration: One year
- Eligibility: Current students in agriculture programmes
Dr Frank Cope Scholarship for Agronomy
- Provider: University of Melbourne
- Value: Up to AU $2,500 (one-off payment)
- Duration: One-time award
- Eligibility: Graduate research students in agronomy
Francis Henry Loxton Stipend
- Provider: University of Sydney
- Value: Annual stipend equivalent to minimum RTP rate
- Duration: Up to 3.5 years
- Eligibility: Male PhD students conducting agriculture research
Students are encouraged to apply early, prepare all required academic documents, as part of their scholarship application process.
Agriculture Courses in Australia: Career Opportunities and PR
Graduates of agriculture courses in Australia benefit from strong job demand across agri-tech, food production, environmental science, and agribusiness. Many agriculture-related occupations are included on Australia’s Skilled Occupation List, increasing post-study work opportunities and long-term migration prospects.
Career Options and Average Salaries
| Job Role | Annual Salary (in AUD) |
|---|---|
| Agricultural Consultant | AU $82,660 |
| Agribusiness Manager | AU $83,099 |
| Environmental Consultant | AU $103,478 |
| Agriculture Specialist | AU $130,654 |
| Soil Tester | AU $61,417 |
Source: Indeed, Glassdoor
Post-Study Work Rights in Australia
Graduates are also eligible for Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) depending on the duration of their course. As of early 2025, following policy adjustments made in 2024, post-study work rights are two years for bachelor's degrees, two years for master's degrees and three years for PhDs. Students who complete their studies in designated regional areas and meet all specific eligibility criteria may be able to apply for an extension to their post-study work visa.
Studying in regional Australia can also offer advantages for certain skilled migration visas, such as the Skilled Regional Visa (Subclass 491), potentially including additional points in the migration points test. However, the specifics of the points system and visa eligibility criteria must be checked on the Department of Home Affairs website, or you can also get in touch with out counsellors.
Many agriculture-related roles are often included on relevant skilled occupation lists (like the Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List - MLTSSL), which can be a component of pathways to permanent residency, provided all criteria are met. All post-study work arrangements, including eligibility criteria and durations, are subject to change by the Australian Government. Applicants must verify the latest regulations directly with the Department of Home Affairs website before making any decisions.
When planning to study agriculture courses in Australia, it is important to choose from globally recognised universities with strong programmes in agribusiness, animal science, and sustainable farming. Align your education with long-term professional and migration goals by considering PR pathways and regional study benefits.
Apply early for scholarships and explore campuses that balance quality education with career outcomes. Need help selecting the right course and university? AECC counsellors can guide you with visa processing, student accommodation, and scholarships. Start your agriculture study journey in Australia with our experts.