Accommodation options in Australia

G’day students,

Today I will give you advice about how to find the right accommodation. Look for accommodation that suits your needs and budget. Generally, the price you pay for accommodation will determine its quality. 

1. RENTING
2. HOMESTAY
3. SHORT-TERM ACCOMMODATION (backpackers & hostels)
4. LIVING ON CAMPUS

1. RENTING

• Student share houses: Best for students with clothes storage, internet facilities, a desk and a quiet environment to study.
• Student Lodges and guest houses: Smaller rooms, more homely, may have limited cooking facilities
• Share accommodation: Best for independent students, need to buy your own furniture, pay for bills - water, gas, electricity and internet connections

 In most cases, you will need to pay for a security deposit & bond. The bond is usually set at 4 weeks rent. A bond & "security deposit" is an amount of money that is supposed to guarantee that the tenant will care for the property. If the tenant does not care for the property or clean it before return, the tenant could loose some money from the security deposit after moving out. When you inspect the property, write done a list of furniture and fittings in your room and then agree on the condition of the property with the person who will rent the place for you. Make sure that you both have the same signed copy. One of my tip to my students is that please do not handing over money to anyone before checking the property out and signing a written agreement.

You can find share accommodation at:
www.realeastate.com.au
www.domain.com.au
www.gumtree.com.au

2. Homestay
Students can stay with a family to experience the Australian lifestyle and to practise speaking English day-to-day. Meals can be provided for an extra payment during weekdays / weekends. Many international students find that the best accommodation on arrival in Australia is a 4 week stay with homestay family. During this period students can look for more permanent accommodation. Homestay is a great way to get to know about daily Australian life. If you are younger student or coming coming to Australia for the first time, it would be a good accommodation option for you.

3. Short-term accommodation (backpackers & hostels)
Most of the backpackers & hostels are located in the heart of the Australian cities or within short distance to the Australian beaches. There is a vast number of backpackers and price vary on room-type, location, facilities, low or high season, bathroom facitities, etc. 
In general, the number of beds (almost invariably bunk beds) varies. You may end up in 4, 6, 8 or even 12 bed dorms. The fewer beds in the room, the more dollars you'll spend. Most hostels also offer double or twin share rooms, sometimes even with private bathroom facilities.
You can save on accommodation amount if you join for example YHA which offers discounted prices for their members. When you want to book a backpacker online, always compare booking fees and how is the backpacker rated by others. If you enjoy to be surrounded by people, like fun and party, don’t mind sharing facilities so the backpacker hostel accommodation could be a right option for you.  

4. Living on campus
If you decide to live on campus, you can save a great amount on time and travelling expenses. Most of the Australian universities offer comfortable and furnished-style living. There is usually one price for furniture, utilities, internet and laundry. However prices can vary on room style, if cleaning and meals are included. It can be much safer to live on campus due to security presence on the campuses. There is a plenty opportunities to meet new people and develop lasting friendships. Take advantage of communal dining, community events, barbecues, social nights, study groups and student organizations.