We’ve gathered some resources to help you find your way around renting in Victoria, and have established specific partnerships with accommodation providers to support our international students which you can find on our website.
Renting Basics
There are various accommodation options for living in Melbourne. Important factors which may influence which option you pursue may include your budget and desired location. Temporary options include motel rooms, hostels, and even services provided by Airbnb. Such options may also be desirable for when you may wish to travel around Australia for a brief holiday or sight seeing. Long term accommodation options include renting an apartment or house, either by yourself or with other people. Additional factors to acknowledge when considering your accommodation include the security bond, whether you need furniture, the cost of utilities (e.g., electricity), and ease of access to public transport. Given the heavy reliance on the internet for your study, it is crucial that you ensure that your accommodation will allow access to high quality internet.
It is also important to know that you, as an international student, have the same rights and obligations when it comes to renting properties in Australia. In short, the same rules apply for everyone.
This short video from Consumer Affairs provides a nice summary about your options, making applications, and your legal rights for renting in Victoria:
Renting Resources
The Australian Government’s Study Australia website is a good source for basic information about the types of accommodation available.
The Study Melbourne website also provides basic information, in addition to estimates involving cost for different types of accommodation. You are also able to access free legal assistance for accommodation matters via the Study Melbourne Student Centre, which you can read about here.
The Consumer Affairs website also provides basic information such as accommodation options, as well as important legal information (including legal assistance) when renting in Victoria. Topics include deposits, bonds, condition reports, leases, etc.
In addition to the information listed in the sites above, the Tenants Victoria website provides information about problems you may face (e.g., landlord breaches, financial hardship, etc.).
Additional resources listed by Cairnmillar can be found here.