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One of the most important factors for an international student to consider before arriving in Australia is their accommodation. Studying in Australia can be stressful, especially for students travelling from the Philippines and other nations, without the appropriate housing to settle in.

Australia has a large and thriving international student community, with over 739,000 students enrolled as of mid-2025. This makes finding suitable student accommodation in Australia a key step for new arrivals. The popular options for student accommodation in Australia include on-campus housing, private rentals, purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), and homestays.

This guide provides an overview of the different types of student housing available and what you must look for when choosing which to live in. It also contains updated information about major student cities, such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Adelaide, to help international aspirants avoid mistakes if they want to choose student accommodation in Australia.

Types of Student Accommodation in Australia

Australia provides a range of accommodation options for international students to choose from, depending on their budget and lifestyle. The options are on-campus housing, homestay with a local family, shared apartments, and private rentals. Here is a comparison to help Filipinos choose the most suitable option for student accommodation in Australia.

On-Campus vs. Off-Campus Student Accommodation in Australia: What’s Better?

One of the major decisions for international students in Australia is whether to live on or off campus. Both options for student accommodation in Australia offer various benefits and challenges, depending on your preference and lifestyle. Here’s a comparison of a few of these components for Filipino students’ reference.

For example, students already familiar with the surroundings will prefer off-campus shared apartments for more freedom and savings options in the upcoming semesters. For first-year international candidates looking for student accommodation in Australia from countries such as the Philippines, residing in on-campus housing in the first semester can be a great choice. It provides structured support, a built-in community, and instant access to resources, making the transition to a new country and a new academic life much smoother.

Top Student Cities with Affordable Student Accommodation in Australia

Australia has many popular city destinations that house great universities, lively student culture, comfortable living, and diverse options. Here's a summary of the top cities offering good value for money, safety, transport, and culture for student accommodation in Australia.

• Sydney: Home to top-ranked universities such as the University of Sydney and University of New South Wales (UNSW). City centre accommodation in Sydney has premium options and amenities close to university campuses. Good public transportation and a distinctive and multicultural community support a rich student experience.
• Melbourne: Known for its strong academic reputation and student-friendly environment. Accommodation is slightly more affordable than in Sydney, particularly in suburbs like Footscray and Preston. It has an excellent public transport system and a vibrant cultural life, making it a great place to settle in.
• Brisbane: Home to prestigious universities such as the University of Queensland (UQ) and Queensland University of Technology (QUT). Brisbane offers a balance between affordable housing and quality education. Suburbs like Indooroopilly and Toowong are popular options for student accommodation in Australia among international aspirants because of their reasonable rent and proximity. It is known for its warm climate and welcoming atmosphere.
• Adelaide: Considered one of the most affordable major cities for students. Adelaide is home to the University of Adelaide and Flinders University. It has a compact city layout with reliable public transport, high safety standards, and a supportive international student community.
• Perth: Features universities like the University of Western Australia and Curtin University. Perth has a diverse range of housing options suitable for different budgets, particularly in suburbs such as Bentley and Victoria Park. It has a strong record of safety and an increasing international student population.

Cost of Student Accommodation in Australia

Awareness of accommodation costs is vital for international students planning their studies in Australia. Expenses for student accommodation in Australia differ based on location, accommodation type, and personal preferences. In addition to rent, students must also consider utilities, internet, and other living expenses. Given below is an average estimated city-wise cost comparison for common accommodation types.

Note: The ‘Estimated Total Weekly Living Costs’ are a rough guide and can vary significantly based on individual spending on food, public transport, entertainment, and personal items. It is always wise to create a detailed personal budget to afford the best student accommodation in Australia.

How to Find Student Accommodation in Australia?

Finding secure and safe housing is a top priority for all international aspirants preparing to study and find student accommodation in Australia. This comprehensive guide provides a step-by-step blueprint for navigating your housing search, from identifying verified options to avoiding common pitfalls and scams.

Step 1: Reach out to University Accommodation Services

Your university is your first and most reliable resource. Most Australian universities provide on-campus housing and maintain a verified list of off-campus choices. Their accommodation offices can also assist with understanding rental agreements and your rights as a tenant.

Example: The University of Sydney's Accommodation Services and UNSW's Off-Campus Accommodation Support (OCAS).

Step 2: Use Certified Platforms for Student Accommodation in Australia

These platforms specialise in Purpose-Built Student Housing (PBSA), which are fully furnished, secure, and student-friendly residences located close to major universities. They streamline the booking process and offer an added layer of security.

• UniLodge: Known for its high safety standards, support services, and community-building activities.
• Scape: Offers modern, fully furnished student apartments with on-site gyms, study areas, and social spaces.
• Iglu: Combines convenience with a vibrant student community through its boutique-style residences near universities and city centres.

Step 3: Search for Trusted Rental and Shared Housing Websites

Students who want to live independently can explore various trusted rental platforms. These websites feature verified listings, including shared and private rental options for student accommodation in Australia, but require more due diligence.

• Flatmates.com.au: Ideal for finding shared accommodation and connecting with potential roommates.
• Realestate.com.au and Domain.com.au: Professional rental platforms for private apartments and houses.
• Gumtree.com.au: Offers a wide range of private rental listings, though it requires more caution.

Step 4: Contact Student Associations and Community Networks

For real-life insights and suggestions, contact student organisations, university discussion boards, and peer networks. Becoming a member of these groups can provide authentic recommendations and help you find potential roommates.

Step 5: Conduct Thorough Verifications and Understand Your Contract

Before signing any agreements for finalising your student accommodation in Australia, you must properly investigate the property and fully understand the terms of your contract.

• Inspect the Property: Conduct inspections in person where possible. If you are still overseas, ask for live virtual tours and video walkthroughs to review the property's condition and amenities.
• Review Contracts Carefully: Read every term and condition, including lease duration, notice periods, and penalties. Ensure the contract clearly outlines what is included in the rent, such as utilities, internet, and maintenance. Avoid oral contracts and ensure all agreements are properly documented.
• Get a Clear Understanding of Rental Bond Rules: Most Australian states require landlords to collect a rental bond or security deposit of 4-6 weeks' rent. For your legal protection, the bond must be lodged with the relevant state authority, such as the NSW Fair Trading. Never pay the bond directly to the landlord.
• Verify Agents and Additional Fees: Only work with licensed agents and approved providers. Confirm any additional fees, such as administration or maintenance charges, before signing.

Step 6: Stay Alert to Potential Scams for Student Accommodation in Australia

• Do not pay large deposits upfront without verification. Avoid accommodation or contracts that require advance payments for a property you have not yet examined.
• Be aware of absurdly low prices. Extremely cheap listings may indicate a fraudulent listing or unsafe living conditions.
• Avoid unsecured payments. Never transfer payments via unsecured methods like direct money transfers or gift cards.

Note to Filipino Students: If you do not have friends or family in Australia, it is highly recommended to book short-term accommodation for your first 2-4 weeks. This gives you enough time to arrive, settle in, and conduct in-person property inspections before committing to a long-term lease.

Living Expenses Beyond Rent: What to Expect?

Careful financial planning is essential to ensure a secure and comfortable study experience in Australia. In addition to rent, you must also budget for other weekly living expenses, which can vary based on your lifestyle and location.

Estimated Weekly Budget for Student Accommodation in Australia

Given below is an estimated weekly budget breakdown for common expenses that Filipinos must consider while budgeting for student accommodation in Australia.

Tips for Managing Expenses for Student Accommodation in Australia

Here are a few proven tips to manage expenses for international student accommodation in Australia:

• Take Advantage of Student Discounts: Always carry your student ID. Apply for local student transport concessions (available in some states like NSW, VIC, WA) and look for discounts from retailers, cinemas, and service providers.
• Use Budgeting Tools: Apps like PocketSmith, Finder, or Frollo can help you track and control your expenses in real-time.
• Plan Meals: Cooking at home and shopping at local grocery stores and markets can significantly reduce your food expenses. Look for generic or ‘home brand’ items to save money.
• Explore Part-Time Work: Your student visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during your studies and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Finding a part-time job can help offset your living costs.

Government and University Support for Student Accommodation in Australia

Government bodies and universities in Australia offer various types of student support to international students. These services are provided free or cheaply and help secure safe and affordable accommodation.

University Support Services for Student Accommodation in Australia

• University Accommodation Offices: Most universities provide dedicated accommodation help desks offering guidance on on-campus and off-campus accommodation, tenancy rights, and rental agreements. Services include assistance with contract reviews, dispute resolution, and connecting students with verified housing providers.
• International Student Support Offices: They offer orientation programmes, accommodation workshops, and support for housing issues. They conduct regular information sessions on tenancy rights and local laws.

State Government Housing Support for Student Accommodation in Australia

• Tenancy Support Services: They provide legal information, dispute resolution, and guidance on tenants' legal rights. Examples: NSW Fair Trading, Consumer Affairs Victoria, Queensland Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA).
• Emergency Housing Assistance: State governments may provide short-term emergency housing for students in case of sudden accommodation loss or financial hardship.

National and Community Resources for Student Accommodation in Australia

• Study Australia Accommodation Support: The Australian Government’s official international student website guides accommodation and links to verified resources.
• Community Support Services: Some non-profit organisations and community groups also offer short-term accommodation and financial counselling for international students in emergencies. Examples: Red Cross Australia's Emergency Relief, Study Melbourne's International Student Welfare Program, City of Sydney's International Student Support, etc.

Getting the right student accommodation in Australia is vital when preparing to study as an international student. It plays a critical role in enhancing academic success and personal well-being. Precise planning, research, and support from universities and accredited housing providers ensure that international students find safe, affordable, and convenient living options.

As an aspiring student, you should contact the university’s accommodation service or explore trustworthy housing websites for more personal support. If you seek assistance in finding safe student accommodation in Australia, register at AECC Philippines and book a free one-on-one call with our experts.

Student Accommodation in Australia FAQs

How much is student accommodation in Australia?

On average, the weekly cost for student accommodation in Australia can range from AU $200 to AU $750. On-campus accommodation and shared apartments are often the most budget-friendly options, while private rentals in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne are more expensive. The exact cost varies significantly based on the city, the type of accommodation, and its location.

How do you find student accommodation in Australia?

You can find student accommodation in Australia through a variety of trusted resources, including university housing services, accredited housing platforms such as UniLodge, Iglu, and Scape, or reliable rental websites like Flatmates.com.au, Domain.com.au, and Realestate.com.au.

How much do homestay students pay in Australia?

Homestay students pay between AU $250 and AU $450 each week. This price covers a fully furnished room, meals, utilities, and essential household amenities, providing a secure and supportive environment. Costs are a little higher for homestay services in major cities.

What is the cheapest city for international student accommodation in Australia?

Adelaide is widely considered one of the most cost-effective major cities for international student accommodation in Australia. It offers a lower cost of living and more affordable housing than major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, without compromising on a high-quality education or vibrant student life.

Can I book student accommodation in Australia from the Philippines before arriving?

Yes, many accommodation providers and university housing offices allow you to arrange a housing facility for international students before their arrival. However, it is crucial to only use verified and official channels to avoid scams. For a private rental, which often requires an in-person inspection, it is recommended to book short-term accommodation for your first few weeks and conduct your search upon arrival.