Across the street from the Australian National University and a short stroll to the CBD, The property places galleries, parks and Light Rail stops at your doorstep. Inside you will find a cinema, gym, games room and numerous outdoor terrace areas ready to turn life at university into little wins.
Canberra maintains a close-knit community feel, making it a student-friendly city. Canberra is home to top universities like The Australian National University (ANU), Australian Catholic University (ACU) and the University of Canberra (Canberra University). Every year, thousands of domestic and international students move here for its excellent education system and high quality of life. Because of this growing student population, student accommodation in Canberra is always in demand. On-campus university accommodation tends to fill up early, so many students prefer off-campus student rentals Canberra for more flexibility and independence. From modern studios to shared student flats for rent in Canberra, there are plenty of room options that fit different budgets and lifestyles.
For students looking for reliable student housing Canberra, amber makes the search easier. It offers verified listings, flexible lease options, and 24/7 support so students can book confidently. You’ll find a wide range of student apartments Canberra from top providers like Uni Lodge Canberra, close to the University of Canberra and other major Australian institutes, all designed to keep comfort and convenience in mind. If you’re searching for accommodation in Canberra, the best options for you are Accolade on Moore and UniLodge @ UC - Campus West, just a short walk away from universities, starting from AU$211 per week.
Canberra, Australia's capital city, is situated in the Australian Capital Territory. As of 2026, the Canberra metropolitan area has a population of approximately 483,000 people. The city is renowned for its blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, offering students a unique living experience. Established in 1913, Canberra was purposefully designed to serve as the nation's capital. It is home to several prestigious institutions, including the University of Canberra (UC) and the Australian National University (ANU), both of which attract a significant number of domestic and international students. The presence of these institutions has led to a growing demand for fully equipped student accommodation in Canberra with essential utilities, where you can stay connected and make new friends.
Canberra has an employment rate of around 69.6%, showing a healthy job market. The city is home to over 500 cafes and restaurants, offering plenty of dining options for students and locals. With a safety index of 73.6, Canberra ranks among the safest cities in Australia and is widely recognised for its high liveability and quality of life. A 2026 report ranked it as the best city in the world for quality of life, surpassing other global cities. This distinction highlights the city's commitment to providing a high standard of living for its inhabitants. For students seeking short-term student accommodation Canberra, amber offers a range of properties with amenities that cater to various preferences and budgets.
Finding the right student accommodation in Canberra is more than just picking a place to stay. For students at the University of Canberra, it’s about living close to campus, enjoying a comfortable lifestyle, and having easy access to all the essentials. With amber, you can explore a range of student apartments Canberra, including private and shared rooms, shared flats, and studios, all designed to fit different budgets and lifestyles. Many Canberra student accommodations provide security features like gated entries, CCTV, and 24/7 support.
1. Accolade on Moore – ★★★★★ (4.8/5.0)– “Perfect location with modern facilities and a lively student community.” – From AU$340/week
2. UniGardens – ★★★★☆ (4.8/5.0) – “Affordable and comfortable with great study spaces and communal areas.” – From AU$190/week
3. UniLodge @ UC – Campus West – ★★★★☆ (5.0/5.0) – “Close to campus, with friendly community vibes and convenient amenities.” – From AU$216/week
4. Dickson Village Apartments – From AU$610/week
Canberra has several neighbourhoods, ideal for students seeking affordable and convenient housing near the University of Canberra. The best suburbs in Canberra offer great transport links and budget-friendly options for Canberra student accommodations.
1. Bruce: Home to the University of Canberra, Bruce is the top choice for students who want to live close to campus. The suburb has cafes, parks, and easy transport links for your convenience.
Average Rent: AUD 300 - 400 per week
2. Belconnen: Just north of the city centre, Belconnen is lively yet affordable. Students can enjoy shopping centres, parks, and local cafes.
Average Rent: AUD 280 - 380 per week
3. Braddon: Braddon is one of the most popular inner-city areas for students who want a social lifestyle. It’s packed with cafés, gyms, weekend markets, and nightlife and sits very close to Civic (City Centre).
Average rent: AUD 260 - AUD 420/week
4. Dickson: Dickson is popular with students because it sits on the light rail line, making commuting super easy. It’s a good mix of affordability, food options, and connectivity (especially for students who travel frequently to the Canberra Civic Centre).
Average rent: AUD 250 - AUD380/week
5. Turner: Centrally located, Turner provides easy access to both the city and campus. With gyms, cafes, and public transport nearby, it's best for students seeking comfort and convenience.
Average Rent: AUD 350 - 450 per week
Student accommodation in Canberra offers a variety of options to suit diverse preferences and budgets, ensuring every student can find a space that aligns with their lifestyle. Here's an overview of the room types available in Canberra:
1. Studio Apartments
Studio apartments in Canberra are ideal for students seeking complete independence. These units include a private bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen, offering maximum privacy and convenience.
Ideal for: Those looking for self-contained living spaces.
2. 1-Bed or 2-Bed Apartments
These apartments provide one or two private bedrooms along with shared living areas such as kitchens and lounges.
Ideal for: People who want both private space and social interaction.
3. Shared Apartments
Shared apartments consist of multiple private bedrooms within a single unit, with communal kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas. This setup encourages Ideal for: Those who want community living while still having personal space.
4. Private Rooms
Private rooms offer students a personal bedroom with essentials like a study desk and bed, with access to shared facilities such as kitchens and lounges.
Ideal for: People who want independence without complete isolation.
5. Ensuite Rooms
Ensuite rooms give you a private bedroom with your own attached bathroom. You share the kitchen and common spaces.
Ideal for: Students who want privacy but still like shared living.
6. Non-Ensuite Rooms
Non-ensuite rooms give you a private bedroom and shared bathroom. This option usually costs less than en-suite rooms.
Ideal for: Students who want cheap student accommodation Canberra but still want their own room.
Understanding the cost of living in Canberra is essential for students budgeting their stay. Canberra offers a relatively affordable lifestyle compared to other major Australian cities, with various off-campus housing options to suit different budgets. On average, students should plan for monthly expenses ranging from AUD 1,800 to 2,500, covering rent, food, transportation, and leisure activities. This guide outlines typical costs to help students manage their finances effectively during their time in Canberra.
1. Accommodation: AU$200–AU$800/week
2. Groceries: AU$300–AU$600/month
3. Transportation: AU$100–AU$150/month
4. Utilities (Gas, Electricity, Water): AU$50–AU$100/month
5. Internet: AU$50–AU$80/month
6. Leisure & Social Activities: AU$100–AU$200/month
Canberra is a student-friendly city with an efficient and well-connected transport network, making commuting easy and affordable. Public transport in Canberra is reliable, and living near light rail lines or major bus routes can facilitate commuting in the outer suburbs. Transportation costs in Canberra average AU$100 to AU$150 per month.
1. Bus (Transport Canberra network – Rapid & local routes): Buses cover major student hubs like Civic, Belconnen, Woden, Tuggeranong, and Gungahlin, and make it easy to travel to universities and shopping areas. Rapid services are especially useful for daily commuting.
Cost: ~A$35–A$60/week (depends on daily travel frequency)
2. Light Rail: Canberra’s light rail is best for students living in Gungahlin, Dickson, or along Northbourne Avenue, with frequent services during peak hours and direct access to the City Centre.
Cost: ~A$25–A$50/week (for regular users)
3. Cycling: Canberra is very bike-friendly, with dedicated cycling paths and wide roads. Students often cycle around Bruce, Acton (ANU area), Belconnen, and Civic, especially for short daily commutes.
5. Walking: If you live near your campus (example: around ANU/City or UC/Bruce), walking is a convenient way to manage daily travel to lectures, cafés, shops, and libraries.
6. Nearest airport: Canberra Airport (CBR) is the closest airport and is directly connected via the Rapid 3 bus route, which runs between the airport terminal and major interchanges (including the City), with the City trip under 20 minutes.
Student Transit Tips: Students commuting daily can also cut costs using MyWay+ concession fares, available for tertiary students as well.
Distance of University of Canberra From Properties:
1. UniLodge @ UC – Campus West - 2 minutes away by car
2. Dickson Village Apartments - 12 minutes away by car
Canberra offers a lively, student-friendly environment, making it an ideal city for those studying at the University of Canberra. Whether you’re exploring museums, relaxing in parks, or enjoying the café scene, student living in Canberra is both engaging and accessible. Popular student-friendly areas like Belconnen, Canberra City Centre, and Braddon offer easy access to libraries, cafés, and study spaces for your academic journey. The University of Canberra Library provides excellent study facilities, while UCBarX and Coopers Cafe are popular hangouts for students to unwind after classes. You can also visit the Canberra Civic Centre and the National Gallery.
When it’s time to relax, students often head to The Cupping Room or Penny University for specialty coffee or grab a bite at Wilma BBQ and Akiba. For a bit of nature, Lake Burley Griffin, Commonwealth Park, and the Australian National Botanic Gardens are great for picnics, runs, or quiet study sessions outdoors. Sports enthusiasts, especially cricket fans, can catch major matches at Manuka Oval, Canberra’s premier cricket stadium that regularly hosts Big Bash League and international fixtures, drawing crowds of both locals and visiting students. When the sun sets, nightlife spots like Mooseheads, The Basement, and Hippo Co keep the student scene lively. Canberra also celebrates its culture year-round with festivals like the Canberra Balloon Spectacular, Floriade, and the National Multicultural Festival. You can do so much while living in shared accommodation near University of Canberra, from cafes, parks, museums, nightlife, and much more.
Tourist attractions in Canberra
1. Australian War Memorial
2. Parliament House
3. National Gallery of Australia
4. National Museum of Australia
5. Lake Burley Griffin
6. Questacon – National Science and Technology Centre
Canberra is home to prestigious institutions that attract students nationally and internationally. The city offers diverse academic programs and a lively student community. Nearby student accommodation in Canberra makes it easy for students to enjoy student life and city living. For a broader look at top universities in Australia, check out the best universities in Australia.
1. University of Canberra (UC): UC offers a wide range of programs across health sciences, business, education, and arts, and serves thousands of students every year. Popular accommodation near University of Canberra includes Accolade on Moore and UniLodge @ UC - Campus West, all offering fully furnished apartments, study spaces, and easy access to campus facilities.
2. Australian National University (ANU): ANU is a world-leading research university with programs across the sciences, humanities, and arts. The best option for off-campus ANU Canberra accommodation is UniGardens.
3. Australian Catholic University (ACU): Australian Catholic University provides programs in health sciences, education, and arts. Popular student accommodation Canberra options like Dickson Village Apartments offer fully furnished rooms, communal kitchens, and study areas for a supportive campus community.