How to find student accommodation in Australia complete starter guide is one of those topics that stressed me out when I first arrived. I didn’t know where to look, what to expect, or how to avoid scams. The information online was overwhelming and didn’t tell me what I actually needed to know. I’ve found accommodation multiple times, and I’ve watched friends find accommodation. Some found good places quickly. Others struggled. The difference was understanding where to look and what to expect.
Three years later, I’m finishing my Master’s at the University of Melbourne. I’ve lived in share houses, studios, and student accommodation, and I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t. Some options are better. Others are less obvious. The difference was understanding the options and being prepared.
So here’s everything I know about how to find student accommodation in Australia, based on what actually works.
Where to Look: The Main Options
Let me start with this, because understanding where to look helps you find accommodation faster.
University accommodation: many universities offer student accommodation. It’s convenient but can be expensive.
Share houses: renting a room in a share house is common and usually cheaper. You share common areas with other people.
Studios or apartments: renting your own place is more expensive but offers privacy.
Homestay: living with a local family is an option, especially when you first arrive.
But here’s what I’ve learned: different options suit different situations. University accommodation is convenient but expensive. Share houses are common and cheaper. Studios offer privacy but cost more. Choose what suits your budget and preferences.
I’ve written about share house vs studio vs homestay if you want more detail.
Where to Search: The Platforms
This is important, because knowing where to search helps you find accommodation faster.
Realestate.com.au: the main platform for rentals. Most properties are listed here.
Flatmates.com.au: specifically for share houses. Many students use this.
Facebook groups: there are Facebook groups for student accommodation in most cities. These can be good for finding share houses.
University noticeboards: many universities have noticeboards or websites for accommodation.
But here’s what I’ve learned: different platforms suit different types of accommodation. Realestate.com.au is best for studios and apartments. Flatmates.com.au is best for share houses. Facebook groups can be good but require caution.
I’ve written about using Realestate, Flatmates, and Facebook safely if you want more detail.
What to Expect: Costs and Requirements
This is important, because understanding costs and requirements helps you prepare.
Costs include: rent, bond (usually 4 weeks rent), and sometimes upfront costs like application fees.
Requirements include: proof of income, references, and sometimes a guarantor.
But here’s what I’ve learned: costs can be significant. Budget for rent, bond, and upfront costs. Have proof of income and references ready. It makes the process easier.
I’ve written about bond, rent, and upfront costs if you want more detail.
How to Apply: The Process
This is the practical part, and here’s how to do it.
Search and shortlist: search platforms, shortlist properties you like, and contact agents or landlords.
Inspect properties: attend inspections, and check properties carefully. Don’t commit without inspecting.
Apply: submit applications with required documents. Be prepared to apply for multiple properties.
But here’s what I’ve learned: the application process can be competitive, especially in popular areas. Apply for multiple properties, and be prepared for rejections. Don’t get discouraged.
I’ve written about what to check during room inspections if you want more detail.
Avoiding Scams: What to Watch For
This is important, because scams are common, especially for international students.
Red flags include: requests for money before seeing the property, prices that seem too good to be true, or pressure to act quickly.
Always: inspect properties before paying, verify landlords or agents, and use secure payment methods.
But here’s what I’ve learned: scams are real, but they’re avoidable. Don’t pay before seeing properties, verify landlords, and trust your instincts. If something seems suspicious, it probably is.
I’ve written about how to avoid rental scams if you want more detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does student accommodation cost?
It varies by city and type. Share houses are usually cheaper. Studios and apartments cost more. University accommodation is usually expensive. Budget accordingly.
How long does it take to find accommodation?
It varies. In popular areas, it can take weeks or months. Start searching early, and be prepared to apply for multiple properties.
Do I need references?
Usually yes. Landlords often ask for references. Have them ready. If you don’t have Australian references, explain your situation.
What if I can’t find accommodation?
Don’t panic. Consider temporary accommodation like hostels or Airbnb while you search. Keep applying, and be flexible about location or type.
Can I inspect properties online?
Sometimes yes, but it’s better to inspect in person if possible. Online inspections don’t show everything. If you can’t inspect in person, be extra careful.
What if I’m rejected?
Don’t get discouraged. The rental market is competitive. Apply for multiple properties, and be prepared for rejections. Keep trying.
I’ve written about how much rent to pay as a student if you want more detail.
Final Thoughts
How to find student accommodation in Australia involves understanding your options, knowing where to search, understanding costs and requirements, applying for properties, and avoiding scams. Start searching early, be prepared for competition, and don’t rush into decisions. Take your time, inspect properties carefully, and trust your instincts.
Don’t panic if it takes time. Finding accommodation can take weeks or months, especially in popular areas. Start searching early, apply for multiple properties, and be flexible. You’ll find something that works.
I’ve made plenty of mistakes since landing in Melbourne, but each one taught me something. The biggest lesson? Start early. Finding accommodation takes time. Don’t leave it to the last minute. Start searching early, be prepared for competition, and don’t rush into decisions. Take your time, and you’ll find something that works.
If you’re still searching, use multiple platforms, inspect properties carefully, and be prepared to apply for multiple properties. Don’t get discouraged by rejections. Keep trying, and you’ll find something that works.