3 tips for finding accommodation as an international student in Australia

There are so many accommodation options for students in Australia. Each has their own positives and negatives, and can be weighed up in terms of price, social opportunities and convenience.

Here are three useful tips to help you find your perfect home away from home the first time you start looking:

1. Choose a place that’s accessible to your university

Regardless of whether you’re planning to stay in student share accommodation or find your own place, you’ll need to find accommodation that is either close to your university or within walking distance of public transport that can bring you quickly to your university campus.

Wherever you choose to live, make sure you think it through and weigh up the positives and negatives. For example, living further away from university and spending lots of time on the bus can provide a good opportunity to read your textbooks and study, but it can also be an inconvenience when you’re required on-campus for a 9am lecture on a Monday morning.

Remember to factor in the price of transport as well. If you don’t walk or ride a bike to your campus, you will need to include the cost of transport. Living in the city can be more convenient for some students who walk to their university and don’t need to pay for transport or private parking. Try to find a balance that’s right for you.

2. Consider living with housemates

Living with housemates can be a great choice for international students, saving them both money and time. When you live with other housemates, not only will you have someone to share the cost of rent with, but you’ll also have someone to help you with the chores, giving you more time to relax and spend studying.

If you’re worried about the quality of roommates you will be living with, consider a dedicated international student accommodation provider like MyStudentHouse who vet housemates before they arrive to ensure residents live comfortably together. Living in a share house can be even cheaper than a private rental, as you’ll often get access to the whole house at the cost of just your bedroom.

3. Remember the personal touches

No matter where you choose to live, if you want to make your house a home, you’ll want to include some personal items in your living quarters. If you’re living in a share house, your room will probably already be furnished, giving you the ability to put some favourite photos on your nightstand beside the bed, or scatter some chosen mementoes about the room. Even something as small as a cherished throw rug, a favourite coffee mug, or photos from home can bring back memories and help you to feel at home in your new place.

If you’re in a private rental, you’ll probably have to furnish the whole space including your bedroom. This can get expensive fast, so make sure you have the funds available to get set up with all the basics. A great place to go for cheap furniture and homewares is IKEA, though smaller department stores closer to the city including Kmart, Target and Big W can be another good option.

What are your top tips for finding accommodation as an international student in Australia? Share them in the comments below.