Accommodation in Australia
Arriving in AustraliaWhen you arrive at an Australian airport, you will first need to go through immigration and customs clearance. If you need help finding your way around, just ask the airline staff or one of the border officials in the arrivals area. A clearance officer will check your travel document and visa, and once cleared you will be able to collect your luggage to go through customs and quarantine clearance processes.
More information on what to expect when you arrive at the airport is available at the Department of Immigration and Border Protection(opens in a new window) website or Australian Customs and Border Protection(opens in a new window) website.
Getting to your new homeYou should arrange accommodation before you arrive in Australia, even it is just for the first few days. Have your accommodation address written in English ready to show the taxi or hire car, or detailed directions if you are using public transport. If your institution is picking you up from the airport they will take you exactly where you need to go.
Orientation WeekSome institutions run an orientation week (also known as ‘O Week’) for new students. This is typically held at the start of the year and during the week; you will learn about your institution, take tours of facilities, and meet people who will also be studying at your institution. You can usually find more information about your institution’s orientation week on their website, such as a full schedule of activities.
If your institution has an ‘O Week’ it is important that you attend to learn how to get the most out of your institution and study experience.
Seeking help to Study in AustraliaRemember, if you have any problems or questions once you leave the airport, call your institution’s international support staff. These details will be in your enrolment and orientation information.
Living ExpencesOnce you have confirmed where you will be studying in Australia, you can look for accommodation that suits your needs and budget. Some tips when searching for accommodation include:
The costs will vary depending on your chosen state, city, and type of accommodation.
Always confirm the total cost and any other expenses you may be required to pay, such as a bond and utility fees.
Consider how far it is from your campus and whether it is easily accessible by public transport, such as bus or train.
Find out what shopping centres, hospitals and emergency service facilities, and other amenities are nearby.
The Department of Immigration and Border Protection has financial requirements you must meet in order to receive a student visa for Australia. From 1 July 2016 the 12 month living cost is:
- You - $19,830
- Partner or spouse - $6,940
- Child - $2,970
- Hostels and Guesthouses - $90 to $150 per week
- Shared Rental - $85 to $215 per week
- On campus - $90 to $280 per week
- Homestay - $235 to $325 per week
- Rental - $165 to $440 per week
- Boarding schools - $11,000 to $22,000 a year
- Groceries and eating out - $80 to $280 per week
- Gas, electricity - $35 to $140 per week
- Phone and Internet - $20 to $55 per week
- Public transport - $15 to $55 per week
- Car (after purchase) - $150 to $260 per week
- Entertainment - $80 to $150 per week
Note : All costs are per year in Australian dollars.