Students info

Information Summary for Students Living in Australia

There are some important things you should know when considering living in Australia during your time of study here.

In Australia, a landlord or its agent is required to supply you with an opportunity to inspect the property you are seeking to rent if you haven’t previously had the opportunity to do this.  In some cases you may also seek assistance from your chosen education provider/university to provide you with information around suitable accommodation options.

In Australia, a landlord or its agent is required to supply you with an opportunity to inspect the property you are seeking to rent if you haven’t previously had the opportunity to do this.  In some cases you may also seek assistance from your chosen education provider/university to provide you with information around suitable accommodation options.

Once you’ve inspected the property and the property is suitable, you may be requested to complete an application form to check you’re suitability for tenancy.  The application will typically ask you for information including: your name and personal details, previous rental history – note if you don’t have this some providers may still accept your application particularly if they are specialists in Student Accommodation; proof of income to support your rental cost and other incidental items.

If your application for tenancy is approved, you will be required to pay a bond equivalent to 4 weeks rental which must be lodged with an independent Residential Tenancy Authority by the provider.  Upon lodgement you will receive a written receipt and lodgement notice with a reference showing your bond has been lodged on your behalf.  Providers are not permitted to hold on to your bond monies.

You will also be required in most circumstances to complete a lease or tenancy document which sets out the terms of your agreement with your landlord or provider.  This is important and provides you with a level of protection for the term of your tenancy.  Unless otherwise set out in the agreement, the landlord or provider cannot increase your rent or make any changes during the term of your lease without your consent.

With respect to the property it is important for you to know the following:

  1. Is the property fire safety compliant with the relevant legislation?
  2. Does the rent include utilities (ie electricity and gas and water)?
  3. Is the property fully furnished and if so what furnishings are included?
  4. Is the property cleaned on a regular basis or do you need to do the cleaning?
  5. How do you dispose of rubbish?
  6. Are there any house rules and if so could you please have a copy prior to signing the lease documents?
  7. Is the property located near to your university and how do you get there (ie walk or is there public transport):
  8. If you forget your keys or you are locked out of your property how can you get back in and is there any cost?
  9. In the case of an emergency what should you do?

You should be aware that there are options available to you if you feel as though the property is not suitable, not safe or the landlord or provider is not treating you appropriately.  In the first instance, you should try to resolve these matters directly with your landlord or provider however in circumstances where you feel uncomfortable or unsafe to do this, you may contact your personal representative or your university/education provider or the local authority.