Accommodation Matching Service - Detailed Information

Types of Accommodation in Australia

Homestay

• Live with a local Australian family
• Fully furnished private room provided
• Meals included (2-3 meals per day)
• Utilities included
• Average distance from city center: 30-60 minutes

Student Dormitory

• Residential facilities for students
• On-campus or off-campus
• Single or shared rooms
• Shared kitchen and laundry facilities
• Study rooms and community spaces

Share House

• Rent a room in a house or apartment
• Shared kitchen, bathroom, and living areas
• Utilities shared among tenants
• Furnished or unfurnished
• Contract review essential

Private Rental

• Studio or one-bedroom (or larger)
• Fully independent space
• Direct contract with landlord or real estate agent
• Bond and prepaid rent required
• Utilities to be connected by tenant

Complexity of the Australian Rental Process

Required Documents:

• Passport and visa
• Confirmation of Enrolment (COE)
• Bank statement (3-6 months)
• Proof of employment or scholarship
• Previous rental references
• Guarantor (if required)

Application Process:

1. Attend inspection (highly competitive, 10-15 minutes)
2. Submit application within 24-48 hours
3. Provide 100 points of identification
4. Reference checks
5. Compete with multiple applicants
6. Sign lease upon approval
7. Pay bond (4 weeks’ rent) and prepaid rent

Common Challenges:

• No Australian rental history
• Lack of local references
• Limited understanding of tenant rights
• Difficulty assessing neighborhood safety and amenities
• Language barriers with legal documents
• High competition (20-50 applicants per property)
• Inspections scheduled during weekday daytime hours

Bond and Legal Requirements

Bond (Deposit):

• Equivalent to 4 weeks’ rent
• Held by government bond authority
• Refunded after lease ends (subject to property condition check)
• Potential issues with co-tenants

Lease Agreement Terms:

• Fixed term (typically 6-12 months)
• Penalties for early termination
• Maintenance responsibilities
• Notice requirements for landlord visits
• Subletting restrictions

Overlooked Additional Costs

Initial Costs:

• Bond (4 weeks’ rent)
• Prepaid rent (2-4 weeks)
• Utility connection fees ($200-500)
• Internet setup ($100-300)
• Moving costs
• Basic furniture/household items (for unfurnished properties)

Ongoing Costs:

• Rent (paid weekly)
• Electricity and gas
• Internet
• Water (sometimes included)
• Contents insurance (recommended)

Location Selection Considerations

Evaluation Factors:

• Distance to school
• Public transport access
• Proximity to shops and supermarkets
• Safety rating
• Access to medical facilities
• Community composition
• Noise levels and study environment

Transport Zones:

• Zone 1: City center and nearby areas
• Zone 2: Suburban areas
• Fare differences by zone
• Myki card zones (Melbourne)
• Opal card zones (Sydney)

Settlee Agent Support Services

Pre-Arrival:

• Assess accommodation requirements
• Budget planning and explanation of hidden costs
• Research areas based on school location
• Arrange temporary accommodation (first 2-4 weeks)
• Organize virtual inspections

Accommodation Search:

• Coordinate and attend inspections
• Assist with application form completion
• Prepare reference letters
• Collect and organize documents
• Negotiate with landlords/real estate agents
• Review and explain lease agreements

Move-In Support:

• Complete condition report
• Maintain photo records
• Assist with utility connections
• Handle bond payment process
• Coordinate key collection
• Guide on basic setup

Ongoing Support:

• Assist with repair requests
• Support dispute resolution
• Negotiate lease renewals
• Guide on move-out procedures
• Assist with bond refund

Temporary Accommodation

Options for First 2-4 Weeks:

• Student hostels
• Serviced apartments
• Budget hotels
• Airbnb (short-term)

Purpose:

• Secure time for inspections
• Explore different neighborhoods
• Submit applications to multiple properties
• Avoid rushed decisions

Tenant Rights and Obligations

Tenant Rights:

• Right to peaceful enjoyment
• 7 days’ notice for inspections
• Urgent repairs within 24 hours
• Dispute resolution through tribunal
• Bond protection via government authority

Tenant Obligations:

• Pay rent on time
• Maintain and keep property clean
• Report damages
• Adhere to notice period for moving out (21-28 days)
• Pay utilities

Red Flags to Avoid

Warning Signs:

• No written contract
• Cash-only payments
• Paying bond directly to landlord
• No official receipts provided
• Pressure to sign immediately
• Restricted inspections
• Abnormally low rent compared to area

Settlee Required Documents

Provided by Student:

• Passport and visa copies
• COE or admission letter
• Bank account details (if available)
• Emergency contact information
• Accommodation preference survey

Handled by Agent:

• Local reference letters
• Guarantor documents (if needed)
• Multiple property applications
• Communication with real estate agents
• Inspection attendance records

Finding accommodation in Australia is a highly competitive and complex process for international students without a local rental history. Settlee agents guide you through every step, from initial search to successful move-in, ensuring a stress-free experience and securing suitable accommodation.