7 Types of Accommodation in Australia for International Students in 2025: On and Off Campus

Australia is one of the most preferred destinations for international students to pursue quality education abroad. One of the major tasks for the young aspiring students here is understanding the types of accommodation in Australia for international students.

As per the latest International Student Experience survey, 87% of the students stated that they were satisfied with student life in Australia. Join us as we explore different types of accommodations in Australia for international students, including the average cost and details.

Types of Accommodation in Australia for International Students

Australian cities like Melbourne and Sydney have continued to rank among the world's top 10 best student cities. The country offers a wide range of options for student accommodation in Australia ranging from On-campus accommodation in Australia to Off-campus accommodation types in Australia for international students.

1. On-Campus Student Accommodation in Australia
2. Residential Colleges
3. Shared Homes or Apartments
4. Homestays
5. Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)
6. Private Rentals
7. Temporary Accommodation

1. On-Campus Student Accommodation in Australia

The on-campus accommodation options are generally referred to as student residences or dormitory accommodation and is a convenient option for students who prefer to live close to their university.

Features of On-Campus Accommodation

• They are fully furnished rooms
• Options for Shared or private bathroom facilities
• Common usage areas like kitchen, lounges, and study areas
• Access to campus facilities, such as libraries, dining halls, gyms, etc.
• Option to avail support services if required.

Average Cost of On-Campus Accommodation in Australia for Students: AUD 150 - AUD 300 per week (based on the type) and up to AUD 450 per week for premium options like self-contained apartments.

Pros and Cons of Availing On-Campus Student Housing in Australia

A quick analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of living in on-campus accommodation in Australia is as follows:

2. Residential Colleges

Residential college accommodations in Australia are usually located on university campuses, with the benefit of managed accommodation and facilities to enrolled students with the respective university.

Average Cost of residential college Accommodation in Australia for Students: AUD 200 to AUD 750 per week

Pros and Cons of Availing Residential Colleges in Australia

A quick analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of living in residential colleges in Australia is as follows:

3. Shared Homes or Apartments

Shared homes are one of the most popular options for students who wish to live with others and enjoy an affordable housing option in Australia. In a shared house or apartment each student possibly has their own bedroom while other areas are for common use like kitchen, living room, bathrooms, etc.

Average Cost of Shared Homes Accommodation in Australia for Students

The cost of shared homes or apartments varies based on location, size of the property, number of occupants, etc.

• In major cities like Melbourne or Sydney, it could be between AUD 150 to AUD 300 per week.
• While in smaller cities this option might cost around AUD 100 to AUD 250 per week

Pros and Cons of Availing Shared Apartment or Housing in Australia

A quick analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of living in shared apartment accommodation in Australia is as follows:

4. Homestays

Homestay student accommodation in Australia is a program wherein the student resides with a local Australian family. This option provides a more immersive cultural experience for international students in Australia and is ideal for younger students or first-timers in Australia, as it offers a supportive environment and also helps polish your language skills.

Average Cost of Shared Homes Accommodation in Australia for Students: AUD 250 to AUD 350 per week (including meals, utilities, and internet access)

Pros and Cons of Availing Homestays Housing in Australia

A quick analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of living in Homestay accommodation in Australia is as follows:

5. Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)

Managed student accommodation or Purpose Built Student Accommodation are specifically designed for student housing and also offers a range of amenities tailored for a smooth student living experience. These types of accommodation in Australia for international students are located near universities or in student-friendly areas.

Features of Purpose-Built Student Accommodation in Australia

• Fully furnished accommodation and communal spaces
• Facilities like gyms, study rooms, and social facilities
• Secure access and support services are available 24/7

Average Cost of Purpose-Built Student Accommodation in Australia: AUD 200 to AUD 500 per week (depending on location and room type)

Pros and Cons of Purpose-Built Student Accommodation in Australia

A quick analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of living in Purpose-Built Student accommodation in Australia is as follows:

6. Private Rentals

Private rentals provide the most independent living option for students in Australia with the possibility of renting their own apartment or house. This options is best suited for students who highly prefer their private accommodation and are willing to take on the responsibility of renting

Average Cost of Private Rental Accommodation in Australia for Students: AUD 300 to AUD 600 per week (depending on location and room type)

Pros and Cons of Private Rental Student Accommodation in Australia

A quick analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of living in Private Rental accommodation in Australia is as follows:

7. Temporary Accommodation

Temporary accommodation type is a short-term accommodation option for students who need a place to stay while searching for long-term housing. A few of the popular temporary accommodation options include hostels, budget hotels, or Airbnb.

Average Cost of Temporary Accommodation in Australia for Students: AUD 25 - AUD 50 per night for a dormitory bed and budget hotels or Airbnb accommodation, the cost ranges between AUD 70 to AUD 150 per night.

Pros and Cons of Temporary Student Accommodation in Australia

A quick analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of living in Temporary accommodation in Australia for students is as follows:

Student Accommodation in Australia: Average Costs in Top Student Destinations

Australia is home to many top universities in the world and there are many popular cities for international students in Australia accommodations based on the universities they select to study. The average costs of accommodation in Australia in top student destinations are as follows:

Also Read: Cost of Studying In Australia For Indian Students

Tips for Finding the Right Type of Accommodation in Australia for International Students

As an international student, finding student accommodation that meets your budget and requirements could be a complex task. We have listed a few tips to help find student accommodation in Australia.

• Study or enquire about all the available student accommodation options in Australia and the additional facilities available for each type.
• Estimate your average cost of living in Australia to help list your budget, to choose the suitable accommodation type.
• Do not omit the additional costs and the time needed to transport from your room to the university
• Thoroughly check and understand the housing agreements

Choose the Right Types of Accommodation in Australia for International Students With GetGIS

It is highly crucial to choose the right type of accommodation in Australia as it has a great influence for a positive study experience in a foreign country. Each type of accommodation in Australia for international students carries its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to consider all your options along with factors like budget, lifestyle preferences, proximity to your university, etc.

Worry not if you are in a fix choosing the right student accommodation options in Australia near your university. GetGIS is all you need. Our study abroad assistance team is here to facilitate your complete student application process from university selection, and visa application to seamless integration into Australia.

Book Your Free Consultation

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