This checklist is to help with your preparation:

• Check your passport is valid for at least 6 moths, and make copies of your passport
• eCOE
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
• Travel Insurance
• Student accommodation is arranged
• Finance arrangements including personal expenses
• Book a ticket
• Emergency contact phone and email details
• Australian currency (you can exchange money at Australian airports or ATM machines)
• Arrangements for travelling to your accommodation

Accommodation Options

Upon arrival, you can choose from various accommodation options, including temporary options like hotels, motels, youth hostels, and backpackers, as well as long-term rentals. Before deciding, consider the following:

• Do I want to live with other students or alone?
• What is my budget?
• How long will I be staying?
• Is my accommodation close to public transport?

Hostels

Hostels offer budget-friendly accommodations where guests can rent beds in shared rooms, which may be mixed or single-sex. Facilities typically include shared bathrooms, lounges, and kitchens. For a list of hostels, visit hostels.com.

Student Accommodation

Student accommodations provide a variety of apartment styles, from studios to shared apartments. Amenities often include:

• Fully furnished rooms (with or without en-suites)
• Air conditioning
• Internet access
• Online booking system
• Gym facilities
• Onsite laundry
• Outdoor courtyard with BBQ
• Bicycle storage
• Recreation and study areas
• Some locations may offer 24-hour reception and security

Explore options at:

Brisbane

• UniLodge
• Iglu student accommodation
• Student One
• Scape

Rental Properties

When renting in Australia, keep these tips in mind:

• Read and understand the terms of the tenancy agreement before signing.
• Always ask for a receipt for security deposits and rent payments.
• Be ready to compromise in shared accommodation.
• If you have questions about tenancy agreements, contact the relevant state government authority.
• For unresolved issues with landlords or agents, file a complaint with the tenancy authority for assistance.

Brisbane:

• Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA): rta.qld.gov.au
• Phone: 1300 366 311

Sydney:

• NSW Government Fair Trading: fairtrading.nsw.gov.au
• Phone: 13 32 20

Share Houses

In a share house, you typically pay weekly rent for a furnished or unfurnished room, along with shared costs for utilities. Rent is usually paid two weeks in advance, and a bond equivalent to four weeks’ rent is often required. A tenancy agreement is generally for a minimum of six months.

Real Estate Agent Operated Accommodation

You may find shared accommodations managed by property agents, including large, purpose-built blocks for students. Payments typically include rent, utilities, and require upfront payment of two weeks’ rent and a four-week bond, with a signed agreement for at least six months.

Independent Renting

For those wanting to rent their own home or apartment, you can do so directly with property owners or agents. A minimum six-month contract is common, and utilities are generally not included. Expect to pay rent two to four weeks in advance along with a bond equal to four weeks’ rent.

Find listings at:

• realestate.com.au
• domain.com.au
• thepad.com.au
• flatmates.com.au
• brisbanestudents.com.au