Numerous concessions are available to students, the unemployed and other low-income earners.
Student discounts
Student discounts can include:
- Movies
- Books
- Restaurants
- Pubs and clubs
- Computers and computer software
- Airfares
- Public transport
Generally, you have to be a full-time student to be eligible for most concessions.
Most places only require that you show them your student card from your university, school or TAFE to get the discount. Check with your student admin office, as they probably have a list of places where you can get discounts. There may even be a list of discounters in your campus student diary.
To buy concession priced tickets and travel on public transport throughout Victoria, you need to have a Tertiary Concession Card or a Primary/Secondary Concession Card or a Health Care Card (see below). Carry your concession card at all times to avoid a fine.
Get more information on travel concession cards at the Metlink (new window) website.
Travel discounts
If you're planning to travel in Australia or overseas, consider getting an International Student Identity Card (new window). It gives you access to more than 28,000 discounts and benefits both in Australia and overseas. You can save on airfares, accommodation, museums, cultural venues, food, shopping, movies and lots more.
Centrelink - Health Care Card
A Health Care Card entitles you to reduced cost medicines under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) - if you get sick, you can get all the medicine you need for a really cheap price.
Some of these concessions are also available to your dependents.
You're eligible for a Health Care Card if you receive a Centrelink payment such as Austudy, ABSTUDY, Newstart or the Youth Allowance. Only job seekers receive this card automatically. If you're a full-time student and receiving the Youth Allowance, apply as a low income earner. If you have a weekly income below a certain limit (new window) you can also apply for a Health Care Card.
Some of the things you can get concessions for include:
- Health care costs including ambulance, dental care and eye care
- Public transport costs
- Water rates
- Energy/electricity bills
If you're on a tight budget, it's worth applying for a Health Care Card.
Links for student concessions
Centrelink - Health Care Card
Find out about the benefits, if you're eligible and how to apply for one if you're a low-income earner.
Metlink
Information on Primary, Secondary and Tertiary student concession cards.
International Student Identity Card (ISIC)
World-wide discounts for full-time students.
