Challenges of Finding Accommodation for International Students in Australia

Studying abroad is an exciting and adventurous experience for every student. It is one of the things that almost every international student wishes to tick off their bucket list. Pursuing higher education from a different country altogether not only attracts various opportunities but also gives a chance to explore a different culture, different traditions and tastes.Australia is known for its exquisite wildlife and various tourist spots. One comes across people from various cultures in this beautiful country. Australia has some amazing universities which offer excellent educational courses and also a mind-blowing student life experience. Students usually look forward to settle here and look for student accommodations in Australia which is near the university and is also close to the various tourist spots. However, during this entire process, finding student accommodation comes with its own basket of issues. Let's take a look at some of the challenges faced by international students who are looking for student accommodation in Australia.

Challenges Faced while looking for student accommodation in Australia

Australia is one of the most famous study-abroad destinations for many students. Studying in Australia offers excellent opportunities. This serene island is known for its natural resources and offers a high standard of living. International students usually pursue higher education in Australia as it is home to many top-notch universities like the University of Melbourne, the University of Sydney and the University of Queensland that offer a wide range of courses for undergraduates and postgraduates that attract students all over the world. However, selecting a student residence has its own set of drawbacks throughout the entire process. The first and foremost thing that you will look into is the visa requirements to study in Australia and student accommodation in Australia. Let's look at the challenges faced by international students looking for student housing in Australia.

Find the perfect one

One of the most important factors considered while choosing a student residence is the lifestyle, the neighborhood, and the distance of the student accommodation from the university. Students usually choose accommodations which fit all these three criterias. The student’s comfort and convenience are two things that are kept in mind while looking for a student accommodation. Finding a perfect accommodation is one of the most common problems with student accommodation. It is very difficult to find a student accommodation that ticks all the items on your checklist. International students usually look for a student residence that is close to grocery stores, shops, laundry and supermalls which are easily accessible.  

Finances

In Australia, the standard of living is comparatively high. International students usually have a limited budget that includes all the costs occurring in that tenure. It becomes a little difficult to manage all the finances. All costs include food, groceries, tuition fees, student accommodation, etc., and managing all of these within the limit is a hassle. In Australia, a number of student discount cards are available where students can use these cards and enjoy the perks offered.

‍Lacking Planning and Research

Before arriving, students usually start looking into accommodation options. Without sufficient preparation, it gets difficult to plan things out. Therefore, it is crucial to research, network, and plan in advance rather than just arriving in a new country and beginning a house search. Researching about the vicinity you are planning to settle in, doing background checks, what amenities are included are some things that have to be considered. Look for authentic websites that provide all this information and answer all your questions like amber.

‍Ignorant of services included

The laws and regulations are mostly different in Australia as compared to countries. These regulations apply to everyone, irrespective of whether you're a permanent resident or a tenant. International students in Australia should be aware of these rules and regulations, especially before signing any contracts or agreements. 

‍Lack of Extended support

Living alone comes with its own perks and difficulties too. After you move out and start settling into a completely different country, you need to figure out how to manage your laundry and kitchen. Daily sourcing of groceries, weekly laundry runs, adjusting to a completely new lifestyle and trying to set a routine gets overwhelming. To top it off, dealing with your own peers may cause anxiety. 

‍Safety and Security

Staying away from home comes with its own part of challenges. Families are usually worried about the safety of the student and hence, it is essential to look for student accommodations that provide adequate safety and security features like 24/7 CCTV surveillance, on-site security and a secure access to rooms.

‍Vulnerability to rental scams

Rental scams are basically fake rental listings which are created with stolen photos and details. Unfortunately, rental scams are a common occurrence in Australia. Scammers may usually ask for a deposit upfront and then disappear in thin air. In such cases, it is vital to cross-check and visit the property before moving and signing the rental agreement. Here are some ways to spot a rental scam and save yourself from it.  

‍Connectivity 

The most easily accessible way of commuting in Australia is public transport. Lack of familiarity with the place and its routes may be a challenge for international students initially. Student accommodation in Australia may not necessarily be near the university you are pursuing your education from. The students settling in Australia can belong to different countries who speak different languages. If the students are not familiar with English, which is the most widely spoken language in Australia, the language barrier can be a disadvantage. The students will face problems in communicating to the localities. Additionally, this can also cause difficulty in Commuting and connecting to different places in the city via public transport causing miscommunications. 

Don't miss these red flags

Unrealistic prices

Unreasonably low cost in a costly neighbourhood! Too good to be true, isn’t it? If you come across something similar, you may be the victim of fraud. So you must conduct a thorough market analysis to understand the rental rates in your target area.

Cash transactions

Does your agent or landlord demand cash payments from you? Or even just offer discounts in cash? If so, avoid paying in cash because your fund's traceability will be compromised. You might receive agreement bonds, and seemingly real cash receipts, from the agent or landlord. Be careful because these can also be faked.

NO photos or videos or visual tour

Absolutely a fraud! Always ask for a virtual or video tour. If the landlord or realtor refuses to share it with you and provides you with a list of justifications, don't buy the property.

No background information

Watch out for the landlord's contact details. Perform a background check of the landlord's details by yourself. Check the accuracy of his background data.

Verbal agreements

Documentation is essential in every circumstance. Never consider verbal agreements as valid agreements. Inquire about every detail that was discussed, including the monthly rent, the term of the lease, the security deposit, etc.

Here are the main issues that international students have with student housing in Australia. Finding student housing can be difficult, and it's crucial to understand what factors to consider while looking for student accommodations. Do your homework, pick the best option, and live largely. You can choose from a variety of trustworthy student accommodation options provided by Amber to find your new place without having to worry about the difficulties faced by international students. As now you are planning to move to the country known for its beaches, check out this amazing blog to explore the best beaches in Australia.