Griffith University Village is located at Griffith Way, Southport, 4215, Australia. Griffith University Village offers excellent student accommodation in Gold Coast. Students can choose from non-ensuite, studios, and shared apartments to fit their lifestyle and budget. This accommodation is just a 7-minute drive away from Griffith University and 23 minutes drive away from Bond University, giving students easy access to both academic and social opportunities.
Southport is more than just a place to study. It is known for its beautiful beaches, friendly community, and status as an education hub. The city supports a strong student population and is home to highly ranked universities. This makes Griffith University Village a great place for students seeking both good study conditions and rich cultural experiences. Southport has a safety index of 62.3, meaning it is fairly safe. The crime rate is moderate at 39.7, mostly involving minor offences. The student population in the Gold Coast area is around 50,000. The employment rate is about 72%, offering students part-time job opportunities. Popular neighbourhoods include Mermaid Beach and Surfers Paradise, both lively and student-friendly.
Choosing Griffith University Village, Gold Coast means joining a community where comfort and convenience meet. This accommodation perfectly blends tradition and modern living, supporting students’ academic and lifestyle goals. It offers a supportive environment and an exciting social scene. Overall, Griffith University Village is an excellent choice for students seeking a well-rounded university experience in Southport.
Griffith University Village, Gold Coast, has many comfy and convenient housing choices for students. They meet different needs and preferences. Students can choose from several room types like the 2 Bedroom Apartment Premium, 2 Bedroom Apartment, 5 Bedroom Apartment - Premium, 5 Bedroom Apartment, 1 Bedroom Apartment, 1 Bedroom Apartment Premium, Studio, and Studio Premium. Each accommodation option has essential room amenities for a comfortable student lifestyle. It has a desk in room, allowing for focused study sessions. A king single bed for a restful night's sleep, ample storage with a spacious wardrobe. It also convenience of unlimited WIFI internet to stay connected. Climate control is made easy with air conditioning. and provisions are made for in-room dining with a fridge and freezer, kitchenette, lounge, and microwave. Maintenance and cleanliness are a breeze with on-site laundry facilities. Griffith University Village student accommodation ensures students' comfort with the added convenience of 24-hour access for late-night study or early morning classes.
Griffith University Village's common amenities are designed to enrich the living experience. With an on-campus location, the convenience for students is unparalleled. Entertainment and socialising are catered to with amenities such as a games area and outdoor basketball court. It has engaging community events like village dinners, trivia nights, and cultural food nights. The property encourages a balanced lifestyle with facilities like a swimming pool and dedicated study space. They also conduct regular wellbeing activities to boost physical and mental health. For sports enthusiasts, there's a basketball court, and the presence of general parking adds to the convenience. Relaxing outdoors is easy with the green space, and indoor leisure is possible with a pool table. Lastly, the presence of a supermarket nearby ensures that all the essentials are within reach. The rents included covers bills like water, heating, wifi, electricity, and furniture. This ensures a hassle-free experience. The property rules at this accommodation include no smoking and no pets to ensure a clean and comfortable environment for all residents.
Griffith Gold Coast Village is in a lively coastal city known for its stunning beaches, great surf spots, and lively nightlife. It is home to top universities like Southern Cross University. Students at Griffith University Village Gold Coast enjoy the best of student life and many entertainment options in Southport.
For coffee lovers, Village Cafe offers wholesome meals, while Okey Dokey Café is perfect for caffeine fans. When dinner time comes, students can choose from restaurants like Edgewater Dining and Lounge, known for its Italian dishes, and Baba Joon Persian Grill Restaurant, which is lively and great for groups. At night, pubs and clubs like Uni Bar Gold Coast and Surfers Paradise Beer Garden offer live music and dance floors for those who want to unwind. For a lively night out, discover more about the exciting party scene in Gold Coast nightlife. For daily shopping, Friendly Grocer Surfers Paradise and IGA Queen St Village are just a minute's walk away. It has groceries, retail stores, and more. For healthcare, students have easy access to Gold Coast University Hospital and the Gold Coast University Hospital Emergency Room, both nearby and reliable. Popular hangout spots include Broadwater Parklands, a quiet place to relax, and The Arts Centre Gold Coast, which hosts theatre shows, cinemas, and art exhibitions. For quiet study, Southport Library provides a calm environment. Nearby attractions include the SkyPoint Observation Deck and the beautiful Southport Broadwater Parkland, ideal for water sports and relaxation. Art lovers can explore the Gold Coast City Gallery, which showcases local art and exhibitions.
For exciting activities and attractions, you'll find a variety of things to do in the Gold Coast to make the most of your time. Living at Griffith Village Gold Coast means being at the centre of convenience, fun, and education. It’s a perfect choice for learners looking for a student apartment in Gold Coast.
Griffith University Village is in Southport, Gold Coast, Australia. Students can easily catch buses from nearby stops. These stops are Henry Cotton Dr At Parkwood East Station and Broadwater Parklands Station. Both are key parts of the local public transport system. If you like train speed, you can use the Nerang station. It runs from Parkwood East Station and Southport South. This service offers quick and frequent trams through the city's main corridors. Students often praise Griffith University Village for its convenient location and great facilities, as highlighted in many Griffith University Village reviews.
If you are a domestic first year student applying through UAC / VTAC / QTAC / TISC you may be eligible for First Year Exemption.
You are eligible if: * You did not get accepted to the university * Were accepted to another university * The course is now wholly offered online (i.e. not being taught internally)
If your contract has not commenced you will be refunded your Bond.
If your contract has started, you are liable for rent up to the date of notification of moving out of the property. Your Bond will be refunded.
Please note the First Year Exemption policy will not apply where you have accepted a university offer but have chosen to defer or withdraw from your studies. You must notify property management in writing (resident notification) within 5 days of the UAC / VTAC / QTAC / TISC Main Round offers release date (generally around late January – refer to the UAC / VTAC / QTAC / TISC website for actual dates) to claim the First Year Exemption policy.
There is no deadline for applications, however please note that once the property has reached capacity you will be placed on the wait list and this does not guarantee you a spot with them.
It is always best to apply as early as possible!
It is a short walk from property to one of the two G-Link Tram stops. Buses also leave from these stops; you have access to the entire South-East Queensland region at your fingertips!
You might like to arrange a 'go card' to make using public transport easier!
Yes! All rooms have a window.
The property is your home and you are welcome to come and go as you please.
Please note that they do have rules regarding noise and visitors within the property.
Noise Curfew
Residents must comply with all directions from property management in relation to noise minimization, particularly in response to noise complaints from other residents of the property or neighbors of the property. For more information please refer to the Property Noise Policy.
Noise curfews are as follows.
Sunday - Thursday: 10 pm*
Friday - Saturday: 12 am*
*during the exam periods, please note that these times do change and there should be no excessive noise within the property during this time.
Visitors
A visitor is defined as a person who is meeting with a resident for a short period, while a guest is defined as a person who is staying overnight with a resident by the property rules. All visitors are required to leave the property by midnight (unless otherwise notified to residents by property management from time to time). Any visitor present in the property after the specified time will be considered an “unauthorized person” to which Rule 52 (Overnight Guests & Unauthorised Occupancy) and Rule 69 (Trespassing) apply. See also Rule 13 (Conduct of guests & visitors).
There is an option to purchase a linen or kitchen pack prior to your arrival at the property.
Unfortunately, you will not be able to access your room or leave any belongings in the property before your contract starts.
If you wish to check in after-hours please call the Resident Assistant or Evening Duty Manager on the provided phone number once you have arrived.
These staff members will be able to assist you at any time when reception is closed.
If you plan to arrive very late night or early in the morning please give them as much prior notice as possible.
The property accepts students studying at Griffith University, Griffith College, and the Griffith English Language Institute (GELI).
They open applications early due to the high demand of students looking for on-campus accommodation. To secure a room at the property they recommend make your application as soon as possible, they don't want you to miss out!
There is an IGA and Aldi store only a 5 minute walk from the property for all of your grocery needs.
Public transport can also get you to a nearby Woolworths and Coles for more shopping variety.
All of their contract dates are unfortunately non-flexible, you are unable to choose your own dates.
Unfortunately all rooms at this property are single occupancy only, this means they are unable to accommodate a couple or family.
You are allowed to bring oil heaters only. Fan heaters are NOT allowed in the property.
They have multiple contract options that suitable for a range of different stays, those are:
Please note, not all room types are available on all contract types and the contract dates are not negotiable.
They have several different room types to suit all lifestyle preferences;
1 Bedroom Apartment
2 Bedroom Apartment
5 Bedroom Apartment
Studio Apartment.
You don't need to find your own roommates. If you're interested in a shared apartment, they will do their best to pair you with people who have similar preferences.
If you already have specific individuals you'd like to live with, please list their names in the roommate preferences section of your application. Whilst they will try to accommodate these requests, please be aware that they cannot guarantee them due to the high volume of requests they receive.
The property fosters independent living while also accommodating students who are just moving out of home for the first time. There is a strong communal atmosphere among the residents which helps students adjust to a more self-sufficient lifestyle while they learn to look after themselves through their cooking, laundry, and housekeeping duties.
There are many options for residents to become involved in the property community. There are heaps of opportunities to make new friends and create a memorable university experience, and if you prefer more time alone or in quiet they also have the right spaces for you.
In the case of any queries, the property team is always there for support in case the student is looking for assistance.
No, there are multiple layouts for the different room types and each apartment varies slightly to the next. However, every apartment contains the same furnishings and facilities so no resident's are disadvantaged!
The property does not provide catering. However each apartment has access to a fully equipped kitchen including a fridge, freezer, stovetop, oven, and microwave so feel free to cook up a storm at any time of the day.
You are more than welcome to bring your own internet provided it is a WiFi dongle, they do not permit ADSL to be installed.
Keep in mind that residents are provided with unlimited free WiFi.
Although they do not encourage overnight guests, they do understand that you may have someone stay from time to time. Please make sure that you sign your guests into reception upon arrival and sign them out on departure.
As per the property rules, you can have a guest stay no more than 2 consecutive nights in a 7-day period.
Please also ensure that you understand the rules for guest and visitor behavior.
The kitchens are already kitted out with basic amenities like the fridge and the microwave. However, you will need to supply your own utilities like a toaster, kettle, and sandwich press for example. If you live in shared accommodation, you can always wait until you meet your roommates to organise a group shop to figure out what everyone has brought along with them so as to avoid doubling up on appliances.
Roommate allocations are conducted in accordance with any requests, such as study preference, age, and gender. To make a request, you will be prompted to include these during the application process however.
Keep in mind that these are requests only and while they will try their best to fulfill them, they are unable to make any guarantees.
They recommend bringing the bare minimum when you first arrive, that way you and your new roommates can work out who buys what to avoid a double up of certain items. However, below is a list of what you might like to think about bringing;
- a photocopy of your ID, such as passport or drivers license. (Required for check in)
- bed and bathroom linen, including pillows.
- food and household supplies, until you can arrange a group shop with your housemates.
- cooking equipment and utensils, crockery, and cutlery.
- laundry supplies
- anything else you need to make the property feel like home!
They often find that it is best to wait until you purchase other items as previous residents may have left behind some essentials as donations, or your housemates may be willing to split the cost of items that the whole apartment can use.
The property does not operate an airport pick up service, however the university does offer a service for international students which you may be eligible for.
On the day of arrival, please make your way to their reception area which is located in Building 4. Their friendly reception team will get you checked in and show you to your new home! Please remember to bring photo ID, proof of enrollment, and remember that your 4 weeks bond will be processed at this time.
If you are arriving after hours you can contact the RA who will come to meet you at the reception building; the check in process is as above.
If you are under 18 and wish to live at this property you must meet 2 criteria;
- you must be turning 18 in the same semester you expect to move into the property.
- you must complete and returned a guarantor form prior to your confirmation.
Unfortunately they are unable to accommodate under 18 international students.
When you arrive at the property you will be asked to provide your student ID card.
If you are a first year university student and have not received your student ID you must provide your letter of offer as proof of enrolment upon check-in, and provide your student card once you have received it.
Unfortunately the property does not offer any direct financial assistance.
During the application process, you are welcome to advise them of any room requests you may have. Please note that although they will do their best to accommodate these requests they cannot make any guarantees.
Your specific room and apartment are not confirmed until you arrive.
Their apartments do not have heaters or fans within the bedrooms however there is a ceiling fan in the lounge room. The Student Lounge and E-Library have air conditioning.
Please note that you are welcome to bring your fan and enclosed column heater as per the property rules:
In the interests of safety, heaters with an exposed element, small fan heaters, and bar heaters are prohibited within the property. If heaters are not supplied in your Room, residents are only entitled to use enclosed column heaters with a maximum capacity not exceeding 1,200 watts with the prior consent of property management. Please use common sense when using the heaters. Do not leave heaters on when you leave your room or apartment and do not place any items of clothing or any other article over or close to a heater.
Living in shared accommodation means that everyone needs to pitch in to keep the apartment clean and tidy. There is no housekeeping service.
If there are apartment disputes you can arrange with reception to have property management mediate an apartment meeting.
In conjunction with the Residential Tenancies Authority, inspections occur every 3 months.
They will advise you prior to inspections occurring so you have more than enough time to tidy up!
If you are locked out of your room during office hours, please make your way to reception or call our office and one of their staff will be able to assist you.
For after-hours assistance, you can contact them the RA or duty manager who is on call. A lockout fee does apply after hours.
Please have all mail addressed as follows:
Your name and room/apartment number
Griffith University Village
96 Edmund Rice Drive
Southport, QLD, 4215
General mail will be placed in alphabetical mail slots within the E-Library.
Parcels are held at reception and residents receive an email to let them know it is available to be picked up.
The university offers a shuttle service between the Gold Coast and Nathan campuses.
Operation
Monday-Friday during Semester
No service on Public Holidays
Price
AUA$5 student AU$8 staff per trip
Location
Nathan Campus: Inter-campus bus-stop on Ring Rd near the Bray Centre
Gold Coast Campus: Bus shelter on University Dr (above Australia Post).
The common spaces are for all students, however on request they may be able to allocate a time for private use.
Although they do not encourage overnight guests, they do understand that you may have someone stay from time to time. Please make sure that you sign your guests into reception upon arrival and sign them out on departure.
As per the property rules, you can have a guest stay no more than 2 consecutive nights in 7 days.
Please ensure you understand the rules for visitor and guest behavior.
All of their apartments have a television in the lounge room, and there are also aerials in the bedroom in case a resident would like to set one up in their room.
There are also TVs available for all residents to use in the student lounge.
There is no housekeeping service at the property.
You are required to clean your personal areas yourself, and organise among the residents of the apartment how to keep the common areas clean. There are inspections throughout the year, and if areas are deemed below standard, penalties will apply where relevant for professional cleaning.
Their reception is located at:
Griffith University Village
Building 4
96 Edmund Rice Drive
Southport, QLD, 4215
Vehicle access is via Griffith Way, there is no access via Village Road.
Finding the perfect student accommodation in Gold Coast is an important step in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable university experience. With its stunning coastline, vibrant student community, world-class universities like Griffith University, and Bond University, and private accommodation Gold Coast Australia is an attractive destination for students from all over the world. On-campus housing fills up quickly due to high demand, making off-campus Gold Coast student accommodation a popular and flexible choice for many. Whether you're looking for private rooms, shared apartments, en-suite options, or modern studio apartments, Gold Coast AU offers a variety of housing options to fit different budgets and lifestyles.
Amber simplifies the process of finding and securing student accommodation Gold Coast, offering a user-friendly platform with verified listings to ensure a safe and hassle-free booking experience. Amber provides personalized support throughout the booking process, making it easy to find student-friendly areas and accommodations near key universities. With flexible lease options, transparent pricing, and dedicated booking assistance, securing your ideal student apartments in Gold Coast has never been easier. Explore top accommodation Gold Coast Australia options near Southern Cross University like Griffith University Village, provided by campus living village-aus offering fully furnished apartments, high-speed internet, social spaces, and more.
Located in the southeastern corner of Queensland, Australia, the Gold Coast is renowned for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and lush lands. Established in the 19th century, it has transformed from a modest seaside town into Australia's sixth-largest city, boasting a population of over 635,000 residents. Once a small seaside town, the Gold Coast has grown into a major education and lifestyle hub. Its location along the Pacific Ocean provides breathtaking beaches, while the Gold Coast Hinterland offers lush rainforests and scenic walking trails, making it a perfect destination for students who love both urban excitement and outdoor adventure.
Home to world-class universities, the Gold Coast is a leading study destination in Australia. Griffith University, ranked 255th in the QS World University Rankings 2025, is well known for its research excellence and strong student support programs. Bond University, Australia’s first private non-profit university, offers a personalized education experience with small class sizes and a high graduate employment rate. Southern Cross University, another top institution, provides career-focused degrees in an innovative learning environment. Students here can find well-located Gold Coast student accommodation options, which is a short walk from the city’s vibrant social scene.
The Gold Coast is a Gen Z hotspot, offering a dynamic blend of beach life, nightlife, and cultural events. Popular student neighbourhoods like Southport and Surfers Paradise provide easy access to the city’s best entertainment, shopping, and food scenes. The city also hosts some of Australia’s biggest festivals, including the Gold Coast Film Festival, Groundwater Country Music Festival, and Surfers Paradise LIVE, ensuring students have plenty to explore outside their studies. With a strong academic network, a high graduate employment rate of over 90%, and a vibrant student community, the Gold Coast is one of Australia’s best cities for students. Its safe environment, excellent transport links, and proximity to cities like Brisbane (just an hour away) and Byron Bay (a two-hour drive) make it an attractive place for both study and leisure. Overall, Gold Coast offers a balanced mix of academic opportunities and a lively social environment, making it an attractive destination for students.
Finding the right place to live in a new city is key to making your university life a success. When searching for student accommodation & housing Gold Coast, it’s important to look for a comfortable, convenient location that makes it easy to study and enjoy your social life. You’ll want to consider factors like how close your student accommodation in Gold Coast is to the university, safety, affordability, and access to amenities. At amber, we make it simple to find the perfect student housing with a wide range of verified, high-quality options. Here are some of the top accommodation in Gold Coast for students:
1. Griffith University Village: Griffith University Village offers a vibrant and community-driven student housing Gold Coast option, just a 7-minute drive from Griffith University. With fully furnished studio, 1-,1, 2 and 5-bedroom apartments, students can choose between private and shared living options. The accommodation features study spaces, social lounges, an outdoor pool, and a basketball court, providing the perfect mix of academic focus and student lifestyle.
The Gold Coast boasts several student-friendly neighbourhoods, combining convenience, affordability, and a laid-back lifestyle. Here’s a guide to the best suburbs for students in Gold Coast:
1. Southport
Located just 5 km (10 minutes drive) from the city centre, Southport is a hub for student housing in Gold Coast, especially for Griffith University students. It offers a blend of convenience and leisure with its proximity to Broadwater Parklands, Australia Fair Shopping Centre, and public transport options. Affordable Gold Coast shared accommodation options make it a favourite among students.
Only 3 km (8 minutes drive) from the city centre, Surfers Paradise is the heart of the Gold Coast. Known for its iconic beaches and lively nightlife, it’s an exciting choice for students. The area boasts plenty of Gold Coast apartment accommodation options, perfect for those seeking a social and dynamic student lifestyle.
3. Broadbeach
Located 6 km (12-minute12 minutes drive) from the city centre, Broadbeach combines a relaxed coastal vibe with urban convenience. With trendy cafes, Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, and stunning beaches nearby, it’s a top choice for students looking for cheap student accommodation Gold Coast with a balanced lifestyle.
4. Robina
Situated 15 km (20 minutes drive) from the city centre, Robina is a peaceful suburb with modern facilities like Robina Town Centre and green parks. It’s an ideal location for students seeking affordable student apartments in Gold Coast in a quiet and focused environment.
Located 18 km (22-minute22 minutes drive) from the city centre, Varsity Lakes offers a tranquil lakeside setting close to Bond University. With a community-focused vibe and plenty of cheap Gold Coast accommodation options, it’s perfect for students who prefer a serene and supportive environment.
The Gold Coast provides a diverse range of student accommodations, catering to different lifestyles and budgets. Whether you prefer the buzz of shared spaces or the privacy of a studio, there’s an option to match your needs. Here's a quick guide to the room types available for off-campus student accommodation in Gold Coast:
1. Ensuite Rooms
Ensuite rooms offer a private bedroom and bathroom, with shared kitchen and living spaces. Perfect for those who value privacy while enjoying the social atmosphere of communal areas.
2. Non-Ensuite Rooms
Non-ensuite rooms are a cost-effective option, providing a private bedroom while sharing bathrooms, kitchens, and living areas with others. Ideal for students who don’t mind a shared setup but want a personal space to sleep and study.
3. Studio Apartments
Studio apartments come with a private bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen all in one unit. These are the top picks for students who value complete independence and a quiet living environment.
4. 1-Bed or 2-Bed Apartments
These student apartments in Gold Coast include private bedrooms and shared kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces. Perfect for students who like their room but don’t mind sharing common areas with one or two roommates.
5. Shared Apartments
In shared off-campus housing Gold Coast, you’ll have your private bedroom while sharing the kitchen, bathroom, and living spaces with multiple roommates. This is a great option for those who love socialising while having a personal retreat.
6. Private Rooms
Private rooms offer you your own space, complete with essentials like a bed, desk, and sometimes an ensuite bathroom. These furnished student apartments Gold Coast options offers excellent balance of privacy and access to communal areas for networking and making friends.
The Gold Coast stands out as an affordable destination for students, especially when compared to other major Australian cities. Known for its stunning beaches, laid-back lifestyle, and excellent education facilities, the city offers a cost-effective experience for international and local students alike. With thoughtful budgeting, students can comfortably manage their expenses while making the most of their time. The average cost of living in Gold Coast typically ranges between AU$ 1,800-AU$ 3,200 per month, depending on lifestyle choices and Gold Coast student accommodation preferences. Below is a detailed breakdown of monthly expenses:
1. Rent: AU$ 1,000 – AU$ 2,200 per month
2. Groceries: AU$ 250 – AU$ 450 per month
3. Transport: AU$ 120 – AU$ 200 per month
4. Utilities: AU$ 130 – AU$ 260 per month
5. Dining Out: AU$ 150 – AU$ 300 per month
6. Leisure & Entertainment: AU$ 80 – AU$ 220 per month
7. Miscellaneous Expenses: AU$ 60 – AU$ 180 per month
The Gold Coast offers a variety of convenient and affordable transport options, making it easy for students to get around while living in student housing in Gold Coast. Whether you're heading to Griffith University, exploring the beaches, or socialising with friends, getting around is a breeze. Student discounts, like the GoCard, make public transport even more affordable, with discounts on buses, trams, and trains. Here’s a look at the key commuting options and their estimated costs:
1. Buses
Buses are one of the most popular and cost-effective ways to travel around the Gold Coast. A single bus ride typically costs AU$ 2.00 – AU$ 4.00. Major bus stops, including Southport Bus Station and Broadbeach South Station, offer easy access to universities, beaches, and shopping areas. Many Gold Coast student accommodation options are located near bus routes, ensuring easy commutes for students.
2. Trams
The Gold Coast light rail system is perfect for getting around key areas like Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, and Southport. A single tram ride typically costs AU$ 3.00 – AU$ 5.00. The tram offers a fast and comfortable way to travel across the coast, and most international student accommodation Gold Coast properties are conveniently located near tram stations.
3. Trains
For students living outside the central Gold Coast, trains are an ideal option for longer distances. Train fares generally range from AU$ 3.00 – AU$ 6.00, and the central Gold Coast Railway Station in Robina is a key hub for easy access to suburbs and beyond.
4. Cycling
The Gold Coast is known for its bike-friendly infrastructure, with scenic routes along the coastline and dedicated bike lanes. Renting a bike typically costs AU$ 10 – AU$ 20 per day. Cycling is not only an eco-friendly option but also a fun way to explore the Gold Coast while staying active. Additionally, many Gold Coast student apartments also offer bike storage facilities.
Whether you're into art, food, outdoor adventures, or just exploring new places, the Gold Coast has it all! This lively city offers the perfect mix of relaxing beach vibes and exciting things to do. Here’s a quick look at some of the best things to do in Gold Coast:
Adventure and Green Spaces
The Gold Coast is a haven for outdoor lovers. Spend your weekends at Surfers Paradise Beach, soaking up the sun or catching some waves. For a more active break, try surfing lessons or go on a kayaking adventure along the coast. Burleigh Heads National Park is perfect for hiking, with scenic trails offering stunning views. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit for animal lovers, where you can get up close with Australian wildlife. If you’re looking to unwind, Lamington National Park offers peaceful nature walks surrounded by lush rainforests.
Cultural Events & Festivals
The Gold Coast is buzzing with a dynamic arts and culture scene, hosting exciting festivals year-round. If you're an art lover, the Gold Coast Arts Festival is a must-visit, offering art exhibitions, music, and theatre performances. For movie buffs, the Gold Coast Film Festival brings the latest in indie and international cinema. The Bleach Festival celebrates the region’s surf culture and artistic flair, featuring live performances and beachside events. Don’t miss the Gold Coast’s famous music festivals like Groovin'Groovin the Moo and Party in the Park, which bring together live music, food, and good vibes. Plus, the Gold Coast Regional Gallery is a great spot for contemporary and Indigenous art exhibitions.
Dining & Nightlife
The Gold Coast’s dining scene is as diverse as it is delicious. Head to Broadbeach for casual beachfront eateries like Bam Bam Bakehouse or indulge in a fine dining experience at Social Eating House + Bar. If you’re in the mood for seafood, Fish House at Burleigh Heads offers fresh, high-quality dishes. As the sun sets, the nightlife in Gold Coast picks up, with spots like The Island Rooftop for drinks with a view, or Elsewhere for a trendy cocktail bar experience. If you prefer something more laid-back, The Balcony Bar & Oyster Co. is the place to relax with a chilled drink and great food.
Shopping
The Gold Coast has everything from high-end shopping malls to quirky local boutiques. Pacific Fair Shopping Centre in Broadbeach is the go-to for designer brands and mainstream fashion. For something unique, head to Miami Marketta, where you’ll find food trucks, live music, and local stalls selling arts, crafts, and vintage items. The Strand at Coolangatta offers a coastal shopping experience, perfect for students looking to shop and enjoy the beachside atmosphere. If you’re after fashion deals, Harbour Town Outlet Shopping is ideal for discounted designer wear.
The Gold Coast is home to several prestigious universities that provide quality education in a lively, student-friendly environment. Here’s a look at some of the top universities in Gold Coast.
Griffith University (QS Rank #501-510) is one of Australia's top universities, offering a wide range of programs in areas such as business, health, and the arts. Located just 7 km from the city centre, Griffith is ideal for students who want access to top-notch facilities and a dynamic learning environment. For those looking for Gold Coast student accommodation, Griffith University Village is a popular option, offering modern, fully-furnished apartments and a range of amenities.
Bond University (QS Rank #601-650) is a private university known for its small class sizes and personalised learning approach. Situated in Robina, just 14 km from the Gold Coast city centre, Bond University offers programs in law, business, and health.
3. Southern Cross University (SCU)
Southern Cross University (QS Rank #1001-1200) has a campus on the Gold Coast, offering programs in environmental science, education, and health. It is located in Bilinga, near the southern end of the Gold Coast, providing students with a relaxed coastal lifestyle.
4. University of Queensland (UQ)
The University of Queensland (QS Rank #47) has a campus at the Gold Coast offering degrees in engineering, law, and business. While UQ offers some on-campus accommodation, most students prefer nearby apartments in the central Gold Coast or Surfers Paradise, which are easily accessible to the university by public transport.
5. TAFE Queensland Gold Coast
TAFE Queensland Gold Coast offers vocational education and training programs that are highly regarded across Australia. Its campuses are spread across the Gold Coast, providing easy access to quality education in practical fields such as hospitality, IT, and design.