There are a number of organizations and places that students can go to for help. All institutions accepting overseas students have a staff member assigned to assist students with accommodation. Types of accommodation available are:

Rented Housing
You can rent a house or an apartment. It is often cheaper to rent the household in groups of three or four. Each may have a bedroom and would have to share household chores like cooking, shopping and cleaning. Rental accommodation is advertised in newspapers and on campus notice boards. Rents vary dramatically across the country. You may need to sign a legal document (a lease) which sets out the terms and conditions under which the house or unit is let and you will almost certainly have to pay a bond, usually about 4 weeks' rent in advance to cover the cost of any damage. There will also be electricity and phone connection charges, etc. to be paid before you move in.

College Hostels
High proportions of international students reside in college hostels. Most colleges are on the campus or in nearby suburbs. Services that are provided by the college hostels include meals, social and sporting facilities, libraries, computer centres and tutoring. Cost of accommodation tends to be expensive.

Hall of Residence
They are similar to colleges in that they are on or near campus. Services provided are not as complete as those of colleges though meals and some other basic services are provided. There is a high proportion of international students and they tend to be cheaper than colleges.

Self Managed on Campus Housing
Provided by many of the newer Universities. Generally containing 6 to 20 bedrooms with common bathroom, kitchen, laundry and lounge areas. Costs are cheaper than colleges.

Hostels
Hostels provide full-board, shared or single accommodation, and usual common facilities (bathroom, toilets, dining room, lounge, laundry). The quality of hostels vary considerable but many of those run by community organizations and religious bodies are very good.

Homestay
Renting a private furnished room in a private home where the home owner provides meals. This can be a good way to integrate into an Australian family and learn the local culture and customs of Australians. However, students are required to help out with domestic chores and to keep your room clean. Students are treated as part of the family.

Accommodation for International Secondary Students
Many private secondary schools have full boarding facilities which include meals and laundry services. Costs vary from State to State and institution to institution but the most expensive schools in New South Wales and Victoria charge between$7,500 and $9,000 per year. Other schools may charge as little as $5,5000 depending on location and size. These costs are, of course, in addition to tuition fees.

Predeparture Briefing Checklist is provided with your visa endorsement. The checklist is an important reference for students and family.