Studying in Australia

1. Types of student accommodation in Australia

You’ve got four main options when it comes to Australian student accommodation:

Private university residences

Similar to managed student accommodation but privately run, a private university residence is more like a halfway point between a shared private house and managed student accommodation. These residences are made up of apartments and studios specifically designed for students and so have excellent student-focused amenities such as study areas and hang out zones. They are often all-inclusive in terms of bills.

Private rental accommodation/shared houses and apartments

There’s always a raft of choices for private lettings in university locations. Typically, you can rent a shared house or apartment with your own room alongside communal facilities, e.g. kitchen, living room and bathroom. You’ll pay rent but also need to pay utility bills separately. This type of accommodation is usually fully-furnished.

Homestay

More popular with international students as a form of cultural exchange, but open to all, you could choose a homestay. In a homestay, you will stay with a local family and live as a family member. You’ll have your own room as well as shared household facilities. The weekly price will include bills.

2. What type of student accommodation will suit me?

Different accommodation types suit different students. It’s also usual that what suits you in your first year in a new city is different from what’s best once you’re a more experienced student.

So, let’s look at the pros and cons of different accommodation types for students in Australia to help you decide which will work out best for you.

Managed student accommodation

• The plus side:

  This is purpose-built accommodation that suits the student lifestyle. It’s convenient and usually on campus or very close by. Managed accommodation is furnished. All bills are included. There will be integrated university support. It’s a great way to meet new friends and kick-start your social life. There might be some catering options available, even if you mostly self-cater. You often find that there are extra discounts given out for using university facilities if you stay in managed accommodation. Residential colleges are a level-up and include meals, cleaning and additional support.

• The drawbacks:

  Managed accommodation can be expensive. You don’t get to choose who you share with when you’re a newbie. You will probably share a bathroom and kitchen facilities. It’s harder to disconnect from student life if it’s getting intense at times. This accommodation is popular, and it can be hard to get a place.

• This accommodation is best for:

  First-years and international students. Residential colleges are for select groups, so you must meet the criteria.

Private university residences

• The plus side:

  Found in city centres, close to universities, you get the best of both worlds: dedicated student accommodation with the freedom of independent living. All bills are usually covered in one rental price. Privately owned, so usually better kept and managed that university owned properties, they are an excellent melting pot to meet and live with other students. Access to things like events programs, mental health support and gaming spaces onsite. Often there’s transport to main universities too. Cost-effective.

• The drawbacks:

  Not all university cities have them yet, but the main ones do. They are popular so you have to get in fast to secure your spot.

• This accommodation is best for:

  All students in all years, both domestic and international.

Private rental accommodation/shared houses and apartments

• The plus side:

  Varied options (from studio apartments to shared houses). You get to choose who you live with or take potluck. Usually the lowest cost accommodation option. Great for independence.

• The drawbacks:

  You must organise and pay for all utility bills separately. You must pay a security bond (usually two weeks’ rent). You’ll hopefully get a good landlord but watch out for charlatans! You typically rent for an entire year rather than Feb-Nov (a university year). Think about how you’ll get to campus each day.

• This accommodation is best for:

  Second year and beyond students, as well as first years who are familiar with independent living and looking to spend less.

Homestay

• The plus side:

  You get the support and home comforts of living with a local family who signed up for the role. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in Aussie life and culture, especially if you’re new in town. Meals are provided. It’s safe and vetted. You will likely get higher standard accommodation in a prime location, e.g. use of a pool.

• The drawbacks:

  You’ll get the good, the bad and the ugly of family life. It can be a costly option. You may have to pay an additional placement fee.

• This accommodation is best for:

  International students, especially in the short term.

3. What you need to know

There’s much to consider when you’re picking your student accommodation.

Be aware that most Australian universities run a semester system. Semester one usually runs from Feb (or even March) until May (with an Easter break). Semester two usually runs from August to November (with a midway break). The type of accommodation you choose should take into account if you plan to live in the university city between semesters. For example, some managed accommodation and private university residences are available on a semester-by-semester rental, whereas you usually rent shared houses for the calendar or student year.

Always consider your lifestyle when choosing accommodation. For example, think about how close you want to be to campus and whether you’re a social bod or a quieter type. Importantly, always think about your budget. Different cities command different prices, so many sure you do location-specific research.

We recommend you start looking as soon as possible to ensure you get the maximum choice.

Whether you’re already in the city or not, finding university accommodation can be tricky. That’s where Accommodation for Students comes in. Search, compare and pick your university accommodation in Australia with confidence.