Finding suitable accommodation is an important part of preparing to study and live in Melbourne.
There are a range of accommodation options available to international students, including homestay, purpose-built student accommodation, private rentals, shared accommodation and short-term accommodation.
Homestay involves living with a local host or family and may be an option for international students who would like a home environment while settling into life in Melbourne. Depending on the arrangement, homestay may include a furnished bedroom, meals, laundry facilities and other household amenities.
Designed for students, this offers furnished rooms or apartments, shared facilities/communal spaces. Costs, facilities, services and agreement arrangements vary between providers. Consider location, transport options, total costs, health and wellbeing support available to residents. Always read the accommodation agreement carefully before deciding.
There are various accommodation options available, including renting a property independently or sharing a house or apartment with other people.
Shared accommodation generally involves having your own bedroom and sharing facilities such as the kitchen, bathroom, laundry and living areas. Rental properties may be furnished or unfurnished, and arrangements for utilities and other household expenses vary. If you are considering shared accommodation, it is important to understand the living arrangements and feel comfortable sharing the space with other tenants.
Before entering into an agreement, make sure you understand the rent, bond, bills, length of the agreement and any other costs.
Websites to explore:
Realestate.com.au
domain.com.au
Flatmates.com.au
When you first arrive in Melbourne, you may need short-term accommodation while you settle in and look for longer-term housing.
Options may include hotels, motels, hostels, serviced apartments and holiday rentals. Consider the total cost, location, transport options, facilities and length of stay when comparing options.
Websites to explore:
Disclaimer: Holmesglen does not own or manage student accommodation and does not have any preferred accommodation providers. Students are responsible for researching and choosing accommodation that meets their individual needs, preferences and budget.
When comparing accommodation, consider:
Take time to research and compare your options before entering into an agreement or making a payment. Visit the money smart website to work out on your budget.
Students manage accommodation agreements directly with their preferred providers.
International students renting in Victoria have the same renting rights as local residents under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997.
At Holmesglen, your safety and wellbeing are important to us. While students are responsible for making their own accommodation arrangements, Holmesglen can provide information about support services and resources that may assist with accommodation-related concerns during their studies.
If you have concerns about your accommodation or your rights as a renter, you can find information and advice through:
Study Melbourne also offers free accommodation legal advice for international students who need help understanding their rights.
If you feel unsafe
If you require urgent housing or homelessness assistance, contact Victoria’s statewide homelessness service on 1800 825 955
To help international students understand their renting rights, Consumer Affairs Victoria provides information in 29 languages.
You can also download the International students’ renting rights (PDF) for more information. .
Information and links on this page are provided as general information to help students explore accommodation options and do not represent a recommendation of a particular provider. Students should contact accommodation providers directly to confirm availability, costs, services, terms and conditions before deciding.
