Why Study Agriculture in Australia?
Australia is globally recognised for its innovation in agricultural sciences, with its ag-tech sector attracting over $250 million in investment in the recent past. For Indian students, this makes agriculture courses in Australia a smart choice 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 Indian students seeking quality education and promising career prospects.
Choosing to study 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 agritech 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.
Agriculture Courses in Australia: Cost of Studying and Living
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.
International students in Australia can also work 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 | Annual Tuition (AUD)/ INR |
| Undergraduate Degree | Charles Sturt University | AU $35,000 - $40,000 (INR 1,927,576 - 2,202,945) |
| University of Queensland | AU $45,760 (INR 2,520,169) | |
| Postgraduate Degree | University of Melbourne | AU $34,344 - $73,450 (INR 1,891,448 - 4,045,157) |
| Charles Sturt University | AU $32,000 - $35,000 (INR 1,762,355 - 1,927,577) | |
| Diploma/Certificate | University of Melbourne | AU $34,976 (INR 1,926,255) |
Source: Official university websites | Exchange Rate: AU $1 = INR 55 | Tuition fee is subject to change
Living Costs by Region in Australia
| 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 |
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.
Agriculture Courses in Australia: Scholarships
For Indian students pursuing agriculture courses in Australia, several 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 | Salary (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 | Salaries are subject to change
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, typical 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’s 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 AECC today.
Agriculture Courses in Australia FAQs
Payal Chandra, with a rich background in training and development within the international education sector, is a significant contributor to shaping the academic and professional futures of students aspiring to study abroad. Her career spans roles that have put her at the forefront of student engagement and development, particularly in the context of overseas education.
Payal's expertise extends to client management, learning and development, and building leadership and team coordination skills. This has enabled her to effectively guide students in not only choosing the right international educational pathways but also in developing the necessary skills to thrive in global academic environments. Her tenure in this domain with the students aspiring to study abroad has been marked by her impactful contributions in various capacities, focusing on enhancing the international education experience for students. Her background in marketing and IT, combined with her experience in client management and overseas education consulting, positions her uniquely to mentor students in aligning their educational aspirations with their career goals.
Payal's dedication to the field of international education is evident in her continuous pursuit of innovative training and development strategies, making her a valuable resource for students navigating the complexities of studying abroad.