Types of Accommodation in Australia: A Complete Guide

Moving to Australia for your studies? Finding the right place to live is probably one of your biggest concerns right now. Don't worry, you're not alone in feeling overwhelmed by the types of accommodation in Australia available to international students like yourself. Australia offers incredible diversity when it comes to accommodation in Australia, each designed to suit different budgets, lifestyles, and preferences. Whether you're looking for independence, community vibes, modern amenities, or something budget-friendly, there's definitely something that'll work for you. 

From bustling dorms in Australia and cutting-edge PBSAs (Purpose Built Student Accommodations) to cosy shared houses, quiet studio apartments, and welcoming homestay families, the choices might seem endless at first glance. Understanding the different types of student accommodation before you arrive will save you loads of stress and help you make the best decision for your university journey. Each student accommodation type comes with its own perks and considerations, and what works brilliantly for your mate might not suit your needs at all. Let's explore the various types of accommodation in Australia so you can find your perfect home away from home.

On-Campus Accommodation Options

On campus, accommodation is usually student accommodation that is located either at the university or at a convenient location near the university. While booking one, you might come across terms like “halls of residence” or “student apartments”, which are terms synonymous with on-campus accommodation. Here is a general idea of different types of on-campus accommodation with their living pros and cons:

Student Halls and Residential Colleges

On-campus accommodation in Australia is probably the most popular choice for first-year international students, and there's good reason for that. These purpose-built accommodations sit directly on your university grounds, making those early morning lectures just a short walk away.

Student halls in Australia offer single or shared rooms with communal facilities like kitchens, bathrooms, and study areas. You'll find yourself surrounded by other students in similar situations, which makes settling in so much easier. The social aspect is brilliant as you'll quickly build friendships with people from all over the world who understand exactly what you're going through.

Pros of living in Halls of Residence

• You will be more closely associated with the student community with on-campus accommodation in Australia
• You will be free from commuting stress 
• You can easily bond and start building your social circle 

Cons of living in Halls of Residence

• Lack of privacy might be one of the matters of concern while living in a hall of residence
• These types of accommodations for students are not endowed with extra amenities like game rooms, cinemas, etc

Off-Campus Accommodation Options

Off-campus accommodation is just as self-explanatory; it is accommodation that lies beyond the boundaries of the university. This can be in any location and any part of the city. Usually, they are privately owned and come in several different types, like PBSAs, Homestays, etc.

Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSAs)

PBSAs or Purpose Built Student Accommodations are the modern game-changers in Australian student housing. These PBSA in Australia facilities are exclusively designed accommodations built by private developers specifically with students' needs in mind. Think of them as the perfect middle ground between on-campus convenience and off-campus independence. To know more about PBSA, you should definitely skim through our article Why PBSA student accommodation is the right choice for you? 

Private student accommodation in Australia through PBSAs is strategically located in prime areas close to universities and city centres, offering you the best of both worlds. You'll get your own private room or studio within a larger complex filled with other students. 

What sets these types of accommodation in Australia apart is the incredible amenities that you simply won't find elsewhere. We're talking about cinema rooms for movie nights, games rooms with pool tables and consoles, and state-of-the-art gyms. Study pods for quiet concentration, communal kitchens with premium appliances, and sometimes even saunas and rooftop terraces. These aren't just places to sleep - they're complete lifestyle destinations.

The social aspect is brilliant too. You're surrounded by other students from various universities, creating a vibrant community atmosphere. Many PBSAs organise regular events, from welcome parties to study groups, making it incredibly easy to build lasting friendships.

  Pros of living in a PBSA

• All the amenities and services offered in a PBSA are “student-centric” 
• They are always located in prime locations 
• PBSA keeps students entertained with some nowhere else found amenities like game rooms, cinema, sauna, etc. 

 Cons of living in a PBSA

• Some PBSAs accept monthly payments, but much on-campus housing only accepts semester payments.
•  PBSAs typically have guidelines established by the corporation overseeing them.

Shared Housing and Flatmates

Traditional off-campus accommodation in Australia through shared housing offers you the perfect balance between independence and affordability. You'll rent a room in a house or apartment located in surrounding suburbs whilst sharing common areas like the kitchen, living room, and sometimes bathrooms with other tenants – usually other students or young professionals.

Finding the right flatmates is crucial for your happiness when exploring these types of student accommodation. Take time to meet potential housemates before committing, and make sure you're all on the same page about things like cleaning schedules, noise levels, and guest policies. The flexibility and cost savings are excellent, plus you'll experience authentic Australian neighbourhood living. 

Homestay Programs

Off-campus homestay programs connect you with local Australian families who open their homes to international students in residential suburbs around the city. You'll get your own bedroom whilst sharing meals and family life with your hosts. It's like having an instant Australian family who can help you navigate everything from local customs to the best places to shop.

Homestay families are carefully vetted and often have years of experience hosting international students. They understand the challenges you're facing and are genuinely interested in helping you succeed. Many lifelong friendships start this way, and you'll experience authentic Australian family life in real neighbourhoods. The main considerations for these types of accommodation in Australia are less privacy and independence compared to other options, plus you'll need to factor in travel time and costs to reach campus. 

Tips for Choosing the Right Accommodation

1. Find a student accommodation in Australia that is close to your preferred university.
2. Look for a place with the amenities that you frequently use in your day-to-day life.
3. Book early to find an affordable accommodation option.
4. Find an accommodation with all-inclusive bills to save up on expenses.

If you’re still confused about on-campus vs off-campus accommodation. To gain more clarity, check out our blog On campus vs off campus accommodation.

Choosing the right accommodation is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your Australian study journey. With so many types of accommodation in Australia available, from on-campus communities to independent private rentals, there's genuinely something perfect for every student's needs and budget. Take your time to research thoroughly, consider your personal priorities, and don't hesitate to visit amber, as your dream home is just a few clicks away.