Student Accommodation
Your Australian Migration Specialists
There has never been a better time to migrate to Australia
Choosing the right place to live can significantly impact your study experience, budget, and lifestyle while living abroad. This guide explores the different types of student accommodation in Australia, how to find housing, and what to consider before making your decision.
Types of student accommodation in Australia
There are many types of accommodation for students in Australia, including shared rental houses, homestays with an Australian family, or in-campus hostels. There is a large variety of accommodation available for international students above the age of 18.
On-campus student accommodation
This may be one of the most convenient and easiest accommodation types available to new overseas students. Most colleges and universities provide their own international student accommodation within or near the campus.
Living on campus will give you the flexibility of accessing facilities on the campus, e.g. libraries, sports complexes, and student centres. Most on-campus hostels are comfortable, secure, and well-equipped, but they are relatively more expensive than student-shared accommodation.
Rental student accommodation
Houses and apartments that are available as student accommodation are abundant in Australia. Some owners rent the entire house to one student, who can then sublet the individual rooms out to other students, while others prefer to rent individual rooms to students.
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Homestay
This is an option where a student stays with an Australian family while studying in Australia. Cleaning services and three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are provided in most homestay arrangements.
This accommodation option is suitable for younger students as well as those who love to learn about the Australian way. With a homestay, you will be staying in an Australian family household with the comfort of a home while studying abroad.
Participating Australian families in the homestay program are screened to ensure that the family’s house is safe and suitable for overseas students. They will be required to have police clearance from the Australian Federal Police in order to participate in the homestay program for international students.
The things you may want to consider for your accommodation include:
- The cost of the specific type of accommodation.
- The location and public transport accessibility (bus or train).
- The accessibility to shopping centres, health services, or any public amenities.
How much does it cost for student accommodation?
A guide and summary of student accommodation in Australia is listed below:
- Shared Rental – from $150 to $450 weekly
- Hostels and Guesthouses on campus – from $250 to $600 weekly
- House Rental – from $450 to $1,200 weekly, depending on city and size
- Homestay (with meals) – $280 to $470 weekly
- Boarding Schools (below 18) – $11,000 to $22,000 yearly
HOW IT WORKS
Three Simple Steps to Your Visa
1
Enquire with Australian Study and Visa Services
We will work with you to identify the best option for migration and assist in the lodgement of your Australian Visa application.
2
Australian Visa Application Assessment
We help you to provide and compile accredited documents that comply with the reporting format required for compliance, to support your application, and explain how timing might make the difference between success and failure.
3
Australian Visa Application Decision
We will keep you informed during the entire visa decision process and give you visa processing times, guide you in detail, and remind you of the timing for certain parts of the process.
How to find student accommodation in Australia
Finding suitable student accommodation in Australia is often one of the first priorities for international students after receiving an offer from an education provider. Starting your search early can help you access more options and avoid unnecessary stress before your course begins.
Start with your education provider
Many universities, colleges, and training providers offer accommodation support services for new students. These services may include on-campus housing, accommodation referrals and advice on local rental markets.
Use reputable accommodation platforms
When researching international student accommodation, it is important to use trusted websites and providers. Many students use purpose-built student accommodation providers, university accommodation portals, and established real estate websites to compare options.
Before paying any deposit or signing an agreement, always verify the legitimacy of the property and carefully review the terms and conditions.
Apply early to secure your preferred option
Accommodation in major student cities can fill quickly, particularly before university semesters commence. Once you have confirmed your study plans and secured your visa arrangements, begin applying for accommodation as early as possible.
Students who are still deciding where to study may benefit from our student placement services, which can help identify suitable education providers and locations that align with both study and lifestyle preferences.
Choosing the right accommodation for your lifestyle
While accommodation preferences vary between students, understanding the advantages and challenges of each option can help you make an informed decision.
Purpose-built student accommodation
Purpose-built accommodation is designed specifically for students and often includes furnished rooms, study areas, shared facilities, and organised social activities.
Benefits may include:
- Convenient locations close to campus
- Inclusive utility bills
- Opportunities to meet other students
- Dedicated support services
However, these properties may have higher weekly costs than private rental options.
Shared accommodation
Shared housing remains one of the most popular types of student accommodation because it can help reduce living expenses while providing opportunities to build friendships and support networks.
Students should discuss expectations regarding cleaning, visitors, utilities, and shared responsibilities before moving in together.
Safety and cultural considerations for international students
Adjusting to a new living environment is an important part of studying abroad.
Students should always:
- Read accommodation agreements carefully
- Understand their rights and responsibilities
- Keep emergency contact information accessible
- Follow property safety requirements
- Respect shared living arrangements and house rules
Students under 18 years of age who require support while studying in Australia may also wish to learn more about the Student Guardian Visa Subclass 590.
Budgeting for accommodation costs
While the accommodation cost guide above provides a starting point, students should also budget for additional expenses such as utilities, internet, public transport, groceries, and rental bond payments.
Costs vary significantly between cities, with Sydney and Melbourne generally attracting higher rental prices than many regional locations. Creating a realistic budget before arriving in Australia can help students manage expenses and avoid unexpected financial pressure.
Planning beyond your accommodation
Accommodation is just one part of your Australian study journey. Students should also understand their visa obligations, work rights, health insurance requirements, and potential post-study pathways.
Many students begin their journey through the Student Visa Subclass 500, while eligible graduates may later explore opportunities through the Graduate Visa Subclass 485.
Get personalised accommodation and visa guidance
Choosing between the various types of accommodation in Australia for international students can feel overwhelming, particularly when balancing study goals, budgets, and visa requirements.
At Australian Study and Visa Services, we help students navigate every stage of their journey, from selecting a course and securing accommodation through to visa applications and settlement support. Contact our team for personalised guidance tailored to your study plans and circumstances.