Best Accommodation in Australia for International Students

There are several types of accommodations in Australia for international students offering them a choice to decide how they want to live. On-campus housing and Off-campus housing are two popular choices with each having their own advantages and disadvantages. Scroll down to learn more about both of them in detail.

On-Campus Housing:

On-campus housing is provided by almost all educational institutes in Australia and is a popular choice among students. On-campus housing is preferred by candidates who are interested in residing within campus premises. These types of accommodations provide easy access to classes while reducing the traveling costs for students. On-campus housing provides an opportunity to interact with fellow students and develop valuable connections. Here are some perks that candidates choosing on-campus housing can enjoy.

• On-campus housing ensures your safety and security making it a viable option for international students.

• Additional charges for electricity, internet, and water can be reduced.

• Provides an opportunity to make friends.

• Opportunity to connect with people from diverse cultures.

Off-Campus Housing:

Off-campus housing is generally preferred by candidates who prioritize independence and privacy. Off-campus housing has many different options to choose from. Even though Off-campus housing has its own benefits, people should consider paying additional costs for gas, electricity, and water. Following are some types of Off-campus accommodation in Australia for international students.

• Student Dorms: Student dorms are a type of accommodation in Australia for international students which are not managed by the university. They are often located close to institutes and offer a similar environment to on-campus housing.

• Private Rentals: Private rentals offer the liberty to choose where you want to live. They are mostly preferred by candidates who like to live alone or those who like to lead a private life.

• Shared Flats: This is the most popular choice of accommodation in Australia for international students as it reduces the financial burden due to shared expenses. They offer individual bedrooms along with common areas like a kitchen and washroom. They offer privacy and are budget-friendly compared to other options.

• Home Stays: Homestay in Australia usually lasts for a few days to a year making it a feasible option for international students for both short-term and long-term stays. Students will share the living space with a native family for the period that they decide. This is also a great option to explore the family’s culture and sharpen your language skills.

Choosing where to live in an abroad country is an exciting thing when deciding to study abroad. However, finding accommodation in Australia for international students is a challenging task, especially for first-timers. Right from the dilemma of choosing between on-campus or off-campus accommodations to choosing between cities, there is a lot of confusion. Here is a guide to choosing your accommodation in Australia.

Step 1: Determine your Budget

Living costs in Australia might vary based on the city where you are living. Determining your budget beforehand will give you an idea of what you can afford. Also water, electricity, and gas will require additional spending, and hence consider this while deciding your budget.

Step 2: Choose where to stay

After deciding your budget, decide where you can afford to live and research the accommodation options available there. You can surf the internet for this.

Step 3: Shortlist Accommodation Options

Consider factors like proximity to your university, transportation options, safety, and community features while choosing accommodations and shortlist those that you find feasible.

Step 4: Contact Authorities

Contact the accommodation providers via email or phone and enquire about all the necessary details. Check the availability and ask for rent or lease agreements while choosing private rentals.

Step 5: Visit the Accommodation

If possible, visit the accommodation before making a decision. This will give you a clear idea of the living conditions, the neighborhood, and whether the property meets your expectations. If you’re unable to visit in person, consider asking for video tours or relying on detailed photos and descriptions provided by the landlord or agency.

Step 6: Secure your Accommodation

Be prepared for deposits and bond agreements and If you feel that is the right place, move forward and secure it after signing all the required documents. 

Accommodation expenses in Australia vary based on the city and popular cities like Sydney, and Melbourne often demand higher prices for accommodation compared to others.

Here are some popular choices of cities for accommodation among international students.

1. Sydney

Sydney offers a wide range of accommodation options like on-campus housing and private rentals. The city is home to Top Universities such as the University of Sydney. Accommodation in Sydney for international students is considered expensive and hence students need to plan accordingly.

2. Melbourne

Melbourne is another famous destination among international students. The city also offers a variety of student accommodation choices, including shared houses, student apartments, and homestays. Accommodation in Melbourne for international students is affordable compared to Sydney.

3. Brisbane

Accommodation in Brisbane for international students offers a more relaxed lifestyle compared to Sydney and Melbourne, with affordable student housing options. Brisbane is home to institutions like the University of Queensland and Queensland University of Technology. The city’s warm climate and vibrant outdoor lifestyle make it a popular choice for international students seeking both academic excellence and a relaxed, enjoyable environment.

4. Adelaide

Adelaide is relatively more affordable for international students compared to other cities. Adelaide is a small and less crowded city which offers a peaceful environment. With renowned universities like the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia, students can enjoy a high-quality education at a lower cost of living.

5. Perth

Perth is a city with a growing population and offers a peaceful lifestyle with beautiful beaches giving time to relax. Perth is more manageable compared to the cost of living of other major cities. 

Studying abroad involves huge amounts of money and it is important to save money whenever possible. Accommodation in Australia for international students often demands you to go out of budget sometimes. Here are some tips to save your budget while staying abroad.

• Share Accommodation: Consider sharing a house or apartment to save big on your budget as splitting expenses will reduce your burden without compromising on your needs.

• Consider Subletting: Subletting is a common practice where you acquire a house/flat from the previous tenant without signing a new agreement which will save you a lot of additional costs.

• Homestays: Homestays in Australia are an affordable option for international students and they also provide food and utilities.

Finding the right student accommodation in Australia is a key part of your university experience. With various accommodation options to choose from, the process can feel overwhelming. However, with careful research and planning, you can find a comfortable, affordable place to live that suits your needs. By considering factors such as budget, location, and accommodation type, and following the step-by-step process outlined in this guide, you can ensure a smooth transition to life in Australia.

1. How much Does Accommodation in Australia for International Students Cost?

The cost of Accommodation in Australia for international students may vary based on the type of accommodation they choose to live in. It can vary from 800 AUD for student dorms to 2000 AUD for apartments.

2. How to Find Accommodation in Australia?

Educational institutions are often posted with boards displaying rental and shared flat options. Also, there are some online websites for finding accommodations.

3. Is Homestay in Australia Cheap?

Homestays in Australia are cheaper compared to hotels and are feasible for short-term stays.

4. How Long Does Homestay in Australia Last?

Homestays in Australia usually last for a few days to one year.

5. Can we Find the Cheapest Accommodation in Sydney for International Students?

Yes, Sydney is the most preferred place for international students, and with an ample amount of research online, one can find good accommodation in Australia for international students.