Get help with any accommodation-related matters including moving interstate, finding safe and legitimate accommodation, moving out of home for the first time, tips and tricks to succeed as a renter, ways to avoid sleeping rough, and other tenancy issues with the ACU Rental Advisory Service.

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It’s great to be able to have freedom and independence by choosing where you want to live while you study. That’s why the Rental Advisory Service wants to help you.

Homestays

Get a taste of family life in Australia. Homestays are an ideal short-term option for students who are travelling from overseas or interstate. Settle into a new city with the help of a local family. Fees cover everything you need to be comfortable in your new home – including rent, furniture, utilities and even some meals.

We encourage international students to consider a homestays option while looking for a long-term accommodation onshore.

Find out more about the Australian Homestay Network

Private rental

If you prefer more independence, renting on your own or sharing with others is a great choice. It’s important to remember that furniture, utilities (water, electricity, gas) and food are usually not included in rental fees. Try to choose reputable real estate agents and ensure that you read all the documents provided to you carefully.

Tips for renting

  1. Inspect the place before you pay any money (and take photos of any damage).
  2. Read the contract before you sign it.
  3. Your agent/lessor lodges your rental bond with the RTA (Residential Tenancies Authority).
  4. Complete the conditional report once moved in and return it back to your agent/lessor.
  5. You’ll need an Australian bank account to get your bond back.
  6. Pay your rent on time and get receipts.
  7. Keep the place clean, tidy and undamaged.
  8. Keep to the terms of your contract.
  9. Make sure you know your rights and responsibilities.

Finding a rental

Some useful websites to find rental properties are:

Other available services

Did you know that we provide a variety of other services that can help support you while you’re studying at ACU?

Student Advocacy Service

The Student Advocacy Service is part of Student Support Services and is free and confidential. Available to all current ACU students, this service helps students to navigate ACU policy and procedure with confidence.

Discover the Advocacy Service

Legal Advice Service

Consult a reliable and supportive lawyer on any matter that may be affecting you via our subsidised legal advice service.

Learn how to access legal advice (Student Portal)

Get settled in Australia

To help you feel at home before you arrive in Australia, we have guidance on applying for a student visa, find accommodation, prepare for living costs and more.

Get relocation advice

Do you need help with your accommodation?

Get in touch

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