Ultimate 2025 Guide to Student Accommodation in Australia

Global Ed
July 21, 2025


Studying in Australia in 2025? Let’s talk about student accommodations.

If you’re planning to study in Aussie cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane (or anywhere else Down Under), finding the right place to live is a big deal — and trust us, it can totally make or break your entire student experience.

This all-in-one guide breaks down the types of student housing in Australia, what kind of accommodation costs to expect, how to choose the right location, and what to check before you book. If you’re confused about your next steps to study in Australia, this is exactly where you need to start.


Why Choose Australia for Higher Studies and Student Living?


Why Choose Australia for Higher Studies and Student Living?

Quality Education with Global Recognition

  • Australia is home to top-ranked universities with degrees recognised worldwide.
  • Students have access to excellent academic infrastructure and research opportunities.
  • A wide range of programs ensures something for every field of interest.

Diverse and Flexible Student Housing Options

  • There are several types of student housing in Australia, including university dorms, homestays, and private rentals.
  • University accommodation in Australia offers convenience, built-in student communities, and proximity to classes.
  • Student accommodation in the Australian Capital Territory includes budget-friendly and premium housing for students.

A Safe, Welcoming Environment

  • Known for its safety and inclusivity, Australia is a multicultural hub with strong student support systems.
  • Many accommodations in Australia for international students come with built-in support services and flexible lease terms.

Work and Post-Study Opportunities

  • International students in Australia can work part-time during studies and apply for post-study work visas after graduation.
  • Affordable student accommodation for Australia and part-time income make it easier to manage living costs.
  • Planning around accommodation costs in Australia helps students stay within budget while enjoying a high standard of living.

Vibrant Student Life

  • Australia offers beautiful natural surroundings, modern cities, and a relaxed lifestyle.
  • Whether you’re living in a coastal city or studying inland, Australia accommodation blends comfort with community.
  • Students can balance between studies and recreation with access to beaches, national parks, and urban culture.

Types of Student Housing in Australia


Types of Student Housing in Australia

Whether you’re looking for something social, budget-friendly, or close to campus, there are many types of student housing in Australia to choose from. The table below breaks down the main options — including university accommodation, shared housing, homestays, and more — along with who they’re best suited for and where you can find them online.

Housing Type What It Is Best For Where to Find It
University Accommodation On-campus dorms or shared apartments offered by universities. First-year or on-campus students. University websites, UniLodge, Y Suites
Private Student Accommodation Purpose-built apartments for students near universities. Students who want structure without living on campus. Scape, Infinity Place, Atira, University Living
Homestay Stay with a local Australian family in their home. Younger or first-time international students. AHN, Study Vision, Homestay.com
Shared Flats / Flatshares Rent a room in a shared apartment or house with other students. Budget-conscious, social students. Flatmates.com.au, Flatmate Finders, Gumtree, Domain, Realestate.com.au
Student Hostels Budget shared rooms with basic amenities for short stays. Students in transition or exploring housing options. YHA, Hostelworld

Source: ANCE

Pros and Cons of Student Housing Types in Australia (2025)

Housing Type ✅ Pros ❌ Cons
University Accommodation
  • Near to campus and classes
  • Everything included (Wi-Fi, meals, laundry, security)
  • Good for first-year students
  • Few spots available
  • Might cost more money
  • Less freedom to do things on your own
Private Accommodation
  • New, furnished, and safe
  • Provides privacy with shared areas
  • Has social events and services for students
  • Rent is higher than in shared flats.
  • It can feel a bit like a business or not very personal.
Homestays
  • Experiencing different cultures and enjoying home-cooked food
  • Usually comes with necessities like water and electricity
  • Offers help and support from locals
  • Less privacy
  • Could mean following house rules
  • Might feel limiting for older students
Shared Flats
  • Affordable options
  • Easygoing way of living
  • Living together with others
  • Splitting bills and chores
  • Possible problems with housemates
  • Different levels of quality
Hostels
  • Cheapest short-term choice
  • Simple to find and start living in
  • Good for making connections early on
  • Very loud and full of people
  • Little privacy or personal space
  • Not good for staying a long time

Additional Tips & Resources

  • Adelaide Student Housing is a government-run platform created to help international students find verified housing options in South Australia. It features over 24 properties, including UniLodge, Y Suites, and Atira, with transparent weekly pricing (ranging from $105–$690 AUD). Website:adelaidestudenthousing.com.au
  • In Melbourne, near the University of Melbourne, popular student housing providers like UniLodge and Infinity Place offer options priced between $173–$589 AUD per week.
  • For a global search experience, University Living lists student accommodation in hundreds of cities across Australia and beyond — a great resource if you’re comparing across locations.

Source: University of Sydney, Off-Campus Accommodation

Key Cities for Study in Australia Accommodation


Key Cities for Study in Australia Accommodation

Choosing where to study in Australia isn’t just about the university — it’s also about the lifestyle, vibe, and, of course, the student accommodation scene. Here’s a quick rundown of the top cities international students love and what you can expect when it comes to living there.

Melbourne

Known as Australia’s cultural capital, Melbourne is packed with festivals, food, street art, and coffee culture. Home to major universities like the University of Melbourne and Monash University, it’s a hotspot for international students. The student accommodation in Australia here ranges from high-end studios to budget flatshares — just be ready for a fast-moving rental market.

Sydney

If you want big city energy, beaches, and career opportunities, Sydney’s where it’s at. With top institutions like the University of Sydney and UNSW, this city mixes iconic landmarks with a buzzing business hub. While accommodation costs in Australia are higher in Sydney, you’ll find tons of options — from shared student housing in Australia suburbs to stylish private studios near uni.

Brisbane

Brisbane is sunny, laid-back, and a bit more affordable. It’s home to the University of Queensland and offers a good balance between city life and nature. For international students, accommodation in Australia here is generally cheaper than in Sydney or Melbourne — plus the vibe is super friendly.

Source: Y Suites

Adelaide

Looking for a chill, budget-friendly city? Adelaide’s your match. With universities like the University of Adelaide and Flinders University, it’s safe, affordable, and easy to navigate. The government-run Adelaide Student Housing website is great for comparing student accommodation in the Australian Capital Territory (and beyond), especially if you’re on a student budget.

Perth

Over on the west coast, Perth is all about beaches, sunsets, and space to breathe. The University of Western Australia is a major draw, and the city’s strong local economy creates job potential for students. You’ll find peaceful surroundings, plus plenty of student accommodation for Australia that’s perfect for focused study and coastal living.

Accommodation Costs in Australia: What’s the 2025 Outlook?


Accommodation Costs in Australia: What’s the 2025 Outlook?

Living and studying in Australia is not inexpensive, but with careful planning, it need not be prohibitively expensive. Your largest outlay of funds? Accommodations for students in Australia. Depending on your house type, below is an approximate weekly cost estimate for 2025:

Type of Accommodation Weekly Cost (AUD) Approx. in INR (₹) Notes
University Dorms $150 – $350 ₹8,250 – ₹19,250 On-campus, includes basic utilities, limited availability
Private Student Apartments $250 – $600 ₹13,750 – ₹33,000 High comfort, furnished, near uni, but costlier
Shared Flats / Flatshares $150 – $450 ₹8,250 – ₹24,750 Social, affordable, shared bills and spaces
Homestay (with meals) $200 – $450 ₹11,000 – ₹24,750 Live with a local family, meals included

You’ll need to budget for living expenses, transit and food in addition to housing in Australia for overseas students. This is an example of a typical monthly budget:

Category Monthly Cost (AUD) Approx. in INR (₹) Notes
Accommodation $600 – $1,200 ₹33,000 – ₹66,000 Based on housing type and location
Food & Groceries $200 – $400 ₹11,000 – ₹22,000 Home cooking is cheaper than eating out
Transport $100 – $150 ₹5,500 – ₹8,250 Use student discounts or travel cards
Health Insurance (OSHC) $40 – $100 ₹2,200 – ₹5,500 Mandatory for international students
Entertainment & Leisure $50 – $200 ₹2,750 – ₹11,000 Going out, events, subscriptions, etc.
Estimated Monthly Total $1,200 – $2,000 ₹66,000 – ₹1,10,000 Depends on city, lifestyle, and spending habits

Source: HostelWorld

Checklist Before You Book Your Student Accommodation in Australia


Checklist Before You Book Your Student Accommodation in Australia

Prior to making your Australian student housing reservation, use this checklist:

Location & Distance:

  • Proximity to university
  • Public transport access
  • Safe neighbourhood

Cost & Inclusions

  • Weekly/monthly rent vs budget
  • What’s included (Wi-Fi, utilities, etc.)
  • Hidden fees (bond, admin, cleaning)

Lease Agreement & Rules

  • Lease duration & flexibility
  • Cancellation policy
  • Guest & noise policies

Facilities & Support

  • Laundry, kitchen, gym
  • 24/7 security or support
  • Positive reviews from international students

Visa & Insurance

  • Make sure to provide a valid address for a student visa
  • Check for OSHC coverage

Booking Platform

  • Find websites that are safe to use
  • Sign the contract before you make any payments
  • Cross check references for listings

How to Switch or Cancel Your Australia Accommodation


How to Switch or Cancel Your Australia Accommodation

Even after you finalise your student accommodation, things might not work out as planned. In such cases, you may want to change or end your student housing in Australia. Here are some helpful tips:

  • Look carefully at your lease agreement to find important information such as how long you need to give notice, how to cancel, and if there are any fees for breaking the lease.
  • Talk to your landlord/housing provider about your situation and ask how to cancel your lease or move to a different place.
  • Check if you need to find someone to take over your lease so you don’t have to pay extra fees for leaving early.
  • You can use websites like Flatmates.com.au, university housing groups, or Facebook groups to help find a new tenant.
  • Make sure to send a formal request to cancel or transfer your lease following your housing provider’s rules, and ask for written confirmation.
  • Pay off any outstanding bills, including rent, utilities, or cleaning fees, and request your bond refund if you can.
  • Before you leave your current home, make sure you have secured a new place to stay.
  • Don’t forget to update your university, bank, and student visa with your new address in Australia.

Frequently Asked Questions


Frequently Asked Question Student Accommodation in Australia

1. When should I start looking for student accommodation in Australia?

Ideally, 3–6 months before your course starts. Places fill up fast, especially in cities like Melbourne and Sydney.

2. Can international students rent an apartment directly?

Yes, but you’ll usually need a guarantor, proof of funds, and possibly rental history. Working with a platform or a TC Global (The Chopras) advisor can make this process smoother by connecting you with verified student-friendly listings.

3. Is it cheaper to live on or off campus?

It depends on the city and housing type. On-campus is more convenient but can be pricey. Flatshares and homestays are usually cheaper.

4. Are utilities included in student housing?

Some are, some aren’t. Always ask what’s included (Wi-Fi, electricity, water) before signing a lease.

5. Can I change accommodation after I move in?

Yes, but read the lease terms. You may need to give notice or find a replacement tenant to avoid fees.

6. What are the average accommodation costs in Australia for students?

Anywhere from AUD $150–$600/week depending on the type and city. Shared flats are cheaper, private apartments cost more.

7. Can I book my student accommodation before getting my visa?

Yes. Most providers allow advance bookings with flexible cancellation in case your visa is delayed or denied.

How TC Global (The Chopras) Can Help With Your Student Accommodation in Australia


To assist you in locating secure, vetted, and reasonably priced housing, TC Global (The Chopras) has worked with leading student housing providers in cities including Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney. Whether you’re looking for university accommodation in Australia, private apartments, or homestays for international students, we’ve got you covered.
Our team helps you:

  • Compare housing options that match your budget and preferences
  • Understand lease terms and hidden costs
  • Secure bookings with trusted platforms like Scape, UniLodge, and Student.com
  • Coordinate arrival and move-in support
  • Plan your housing in sync with your visa and course timelines

Need a hand finding your home away from home? Reach out to your TC Global Relationship Manager, and we’ll make the process stress-free.



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