Student accommodation in Australia

Most international students in Australia choose between four main types of accommodation. Each has cost, lifestyle, and visa implications.

Options

Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) — operators like Scape, UniLodge, and Iglu. All-inclusive, walking distance to campus, higher cost.
Share house — shared rental with other students. Cheapest option in most cities, but requires more setup (utilities, leases, bond).
Homestay — living with an Australian host family. Often the easiest option for students under 18 or in their first months.
On-campus residential colleges — typically only at major universities, often catered, premium pricing.