As an international student in Australia, one of the first things you need to arrange is an accommodation for yourself. After all, finding the right accommodation is the key to settling in Australia comfortably. You must ensure that the accommodation satisfies your requirements, is in a safe locality, and is close to your university. In Australia, most of the students live off campus. That is, rental properties, and hostels. For this reason, it is better to know your options and to decide which is the right accommodation for you. Are you wondering how to find accommodation in Australia for international students? Read this blog as it will answer all your questions.
This Blog Includes:
Types of Student Accommodation in Australia
There are different types of student accommodation in Australia. Therefore, before choosing one you need to know the types. Below we have listed the types of student accommodation in Australia.
Renting an Apartment/House
Renting an apartment or house is one of the most preferred ways to stay in Australia. Generally, a foreign national would rent out a house and live with other university students. This is beneficial as it helps in reducing the cost of rent. On the other hand, some students even choose to rent out an entire apartment for themselves.
How to find accommodation in Australia for international students? Usually, you need to pay a security deposit or bond for the same. A bond would be equivalent to a month’s rental charges. Additionally, you will have to pay an advance to cover your first month’s expenses. The Australian state government is responsible for keeping this amount.
University Managed Accommodation
The university-managed accommodations are located near the campus. These accommodation services are only available to the specific university’s students. It is a great choice for international students as the monthly housing charges include electricity, water, gas, and other expenses. Additionally, these types of accommodation are fully furnished. You can contact your university to arrange this type of accommodation for yourself.
Managed Student Accommodation
The managed student accommodations are housing designed specifically for university students. How to find accommodation in Australia for international students? You can choose from shared rooms with communal spaces, and facilities to private studio apartments.
The benefit of staying in these purpose-built spaces is that they are located close to the university. Therefore, you can easily visit your university. Moreover, the advertised cost usually includes the amount for bills. For example, electricity, and the Internet.
Residential Colleges
The residential colleges are available on campus. These accommodation services are only available to the students who are enrolled in that particular university. One of the major perks of staying in residential colleges is getting up to 3 meals a day. Moreover, these colleges would regularly host events. For example, leadership development, and sports and cultural events. This helps in fostering a sense of community among students.
Homestays
Homestays mean staying with a local family in their house. Homestays are a great choice for younger students as they can enjoy the comfort of a family. Not only will they get to spend time with the host family, but they will also get meals and cleaning services.
Independent businesses or education agents can help in finding an appropriate homestay for you. Ensure that the homestay you select follows the Australian Government Schools International (AGSI) Homestay Standards.
Accommodation for Students (Below 18)
Are you below the age of 18 years and wondering -how to find accommodation in Australia for international students? The answer is, you need to seek the assistance of your education provider in Australia, Only your education provider can rightly guide you in this matter.
The Confirmation of Appropriate Accommodation and Welfare (CAAW) letter issued by the provider would state that your education provider must approve your accommodation, and general welfare.
To learn more about the types of student accommodation abroad, watch the video below
Legal Obligations & Rights
Apart from knowing how to find accommodation in Australia for international students, you need to know the legal requirements. That is, the legal obligations, and rights you have. They are provided below
Legal Obligations | Legal Rights |
Pay on time | Feeling safe in the student housing |
Clean the property. This includes the pool and garden area (if applicable) | Living in a well-maintained house with proper water and electricity |
Directly resolve your accommodation issue with your landlord, real estate agent, or student housing manager. If direct resolution of disputes is not possible you can contact consumer advocates or tenants union representatives.
How Much is Accommodation in Australia for International Students?
How to find accommodation in Australia for international students? You need to choose a housing that meets your requirements and budget. Therefore, you must know the cost of accommodation in Australia. Note: the cost of student accommodation differs depending on the type of accommodation, facilities, and rooms you have chosen for yourself.
Types of Student Housing | Cost |
Shared Rental | AUD 250 – 500 |
Guesthouses and hostels | AUD 360 – 650 |
On campus | AUD 450 – 1100 |
Rental | AUD 700 – 1200 |
Homestay | AUD 800 – 1600 |
Learn about the cost of living in Australia
Is it Cheaper to Live on or Off Campus in Australia?
On-campus living is a feasible option in terms of budget. On campus, students get an all-inclusive bill. This means they do not have to pay separately for water, electricity, and other services. This takes a huge burden off the students. Another thing is that the on-campus rates are reasonable. This type of accommodation is also the safer option, and more convenient.
However, if you can live off campus (rental, homestays, etc) and plan your budget properly, then it is cheaper. This is because you have control over most of the choices, and the facilities you require. You can even choose your roommate, and how to decorate your room. This makes off-campus accommodation an attractive option.
Learn about the Highest Paying Part-Time Jobs in Australia
Things to Keep in Mind While Searching for Student Housing Services
Now that you know how to find accommodation in Australia for international students, you must know some tips. You must keep these tips in mind while searching for student housing in Australia.
- The cost of student accommodation in Australia varies depending on the city, state and the type of accommodation you have selected.
- Confirmation regarding the total cost or the bond and any other expenses you need to pay must be obtained. This includes expenses like water charges, electricity charges, etc.
- Ensure that the housing you have selected is near the university campus. Get to know about the public transportation services like buses, or trains.
- Ensure that the housing is accredited by the Student Accommodation Association (SAA) The SAA is responsible for the National Property Accreditation Scheme (NPAS). This property accreditation would mean that the student accommodation meets the industry standards.
Where to Live in Australia for International Students?
The list of best Australian cities you can live in as an international student is provided below. These cities are a great choice for overseas students.
Best Cities to Live in Australia | |
Melbourne | Sydney |
Brisbane | Adelaide |
Perth | Gold Coast |
Now you know how to find accommodation in Australia for international students. Need assistance from experts? Fly Homes will help you find a suitable accommodation that matches your budget and needs.
FAQs
First, complete your studies in Australia, and then apply for a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485). This will give you the right to work and live in Australia.
The cheapest city for international students is the Gold Coast. This city is known for quality education and affordable housing. Gold Coast ranks number 1 in affordable living in Australia and 89 in the world. The data is as per the QS Student Cities 2024 ranking.
You need $2,000 and $3,537 monthly for a decent life in Australia. You can earn around $4,000 monthly, and live properly in Australia.