A Guide to Affordable Rentals for Students in Australia

By Ashleigh Wulf March 12th

Finding affordable rental housing can be a challenge for students moving to Australia. Rental markets vary by city, impacting pricing and availability. This guide covers city-specific trends, rental platforms, avoiding scams, and essential tips to secure suitable accommodation.

Rental Market Overview

*All prices are based on market averages as of 2024 and may vary depending on location.

Sydney & Melbourne: High Demand, High Prices

Sydney: Rent can vary from $650–$900 per week for a one-bedroom apartment, driven by high demand in the rental market.
Melbourne: Slightly more affordable, with rents ranging from $500–$750 per week, but still on the higher end compared to other areas.

💡 Tip: Shared housing or student accommodation can significantly cut costs while providing a social living experience. Explore affordable housing options to make your rent more manageable.

Adelaide & Brisbane: Affordable & Great Value

Adelaide: Rent in the city averages $400 – $550 per week, often with even lower prices in the suburbs. This offers great value, especially for moderate income households.
Brisbane: Costs range from $450 – $650 per week, with more budget-friendly options further from the city centre. With the availability of affordable rental housing, it’s a great city for students and families alike.

💡 Tip: Consider living slightly outside the CBD for better deals – public transport can make commuting easy and cost-effective.

Small Cities & Suburbs: Hidden Gems

For those looking for affordable housing without sacrificing lifestyle, cities like Canberra, Hobart, and Perth offer lower rental costs and a great quality of life. These areas often have vacancies in both community housing and private rental sectors, making it easier for moderate income earners to find suitable accommodation.

Suburban areas like Footscray (Melbourne) and Parramatta (Sydney) provide a balance of accessibility and affordability, especially for those looking to avoid high market rent.

💡 Tip: Before committing, check commute times, local amenities, and public transport options to ensure convenience.

Best Ways to Find Rentals

Finding affordable rental housing can be overwhelming, but using the right channels can help you secure a place faster.

Property listing websites are a great starting point for finding rental properties across Australia:

Domain¹, Realestate.com.au²: The top sites for private rentals and apartments.
Flatmates.com.au³: Ideal for shared housing options.
Scape⁴, Unilodge⁵: Purpose-built student accommodation with convenient amenities.
If you’d prefer a helping hand, reach out to a Real Estate Agent: They offer a range of properties and expert advice to guide you.

Avoiding Rental Scams & Key Lease Terms

How to Spot & Avoid Scams
If something seems too good to be true, double-check the listings and consider asking for a video tour. It’s a good idea to wait until the lease is signed before transferring any money.

Understanding Lease Agreements

Rent & Bond: When signing a lease, tenants usually need to pay a bond, which is a security deposit. This is typically 4 to 6 weeks’ worth of rent and is held in case of damages or unpaid rent.
Lease Terms: Fixed-term lease is a lease with a set duration (e.g., 6 or 12 months). You’re committed to staying for that period unless you break the lease. Where as Month-to-month lease is a more flexible arrangement where you can stay as long as you want but usually need to give notice (e.g., 30 days) before moving out.
Break Lease Fees: If you need to end your lease early, you may have to pay a fee. The cost can vary depending on lease terms and local rental laws, so it’s important to check before signing.