Once you confirm where you will study, you can look for accommodation to match your budget and lifestyle.
As soon as you have confirmation of your study location in Australia, start looking for accommodation that suits your needs and budget. Student accommodation is usually highly sought after and requires prior planning.
Here are some factors to take into consideration when finding the right accommodation for you:
You can rent or ‘lease’ a property by yourself or with friends. This can be done through a real estate agent or privately (renting directly from a landlord/owner). It is common for international students to live with other students in order to make living costs more affordable. There are often rental and share house options posted on boards at your education institution or at share house websites such as Flatmate Finders or Flatmates.com.au. If you rent a house, you will need to pay a security deposit or ‘bond’ (which is usually equivalent to four weeks’ rent), as well as pay some rent in advance (usually to cover the first four weeks of your tenancy).
The bond money you pay must be held by the relevant state government department in every Australian state or territory. Do not give bond money directly to a housemate or to the property landlord, as you will not be legally protected if they decide not to return the money.
Bond money is held by the relevant state or territory government authority in order to potentially pay for any damages that you, your housemates or house guests may cause to the rental property during your tenancy. Some, or all, of the bond may be refunded to you when your lease ends if there has been no damage done beyond ‘fair wear and tear’ (see below).
For more information on your rights and obligations when renting in Australia, visit the website of the relevant Fair Trading government agency in your state and territory.
Applying for rental housing can be quite competitive. Here are some tips to help you with your search and application.
Managed (or ‘purpose-built’) student accommodation (PBSA) are residences designed and built specifically for students. The options range from private studio apartments to shared rooms with communal areas, activities and facilities.
The residences are usually located close to major education providers or near public transport. Bills such as electricity and internet are generally included in the advertised rental cost, so the cost of living should not change much from month to month.
Many international students stay in short-term accommodation while they become familiar with their new city and meet potential housemates. Here are some short-term accommodation options:
Accommodation and facilities operated or controlled by a university for the exclusive use of students. University managed accommodation will be fully furnished, include bills as well as provide integrated university managed support.
Contact your institution to find out what accommodation options they offer and compare this to the cost of other accommodation options.
Accommodation and facilities for the exclusive use of students demonstrating priorities around quality pastoral programs, academic support, sporting, cultural and leadership development opportunities.
Homestay involves living with a family in their home. This can be a good option for younger students because you’ll enjoy all the comforts of a home, get to spend time with the family and often have meals and cleaning provided.
Families offering homestay accommodation are thoroughly screened to ensure they can provide a safe and suitable living environment.
If you have an agent, they can help arrange this for your or you can research local homestay providers in Australia.
Your legal obligations include:
Your legal rights include:
If you have problems with your accommodation:
If you are unable to resolve the issue directly, there are also organisations such as tenants’ unions and consumer advocates that can provide assistance. To find out more, visit the relevant Fair Trading government agency in your state or territory as listed above. There is always someone who can help.To find out more about your rental rights, visit our "Know your rights" blog post.
To find out more about your rental rights, visit our "Know your rights" blog post.
The Student Accommodation Association (SAA) in Australia promotes quality accommodation provided for the exclusive use of students. The SAA overseas a National Property Accreditation Scheme (NPAS). When a property has this accreditation, it means it is being operated to a set of industry-led standards for the exclusive use of students with a focus on student safety and wellbeing. Visit the NPAS website to find out which properties are accredited.
