The AITI Student Services Department advises students on accommodation and offers assistance to students so that they may choose the most suitable accommodation.
In Australia accommodation may be arranged in many different ways. Students may choose their accommodation arrangement according to their needs and financial circumstances. Prior to arrival in Australia, AITI can make temporary Homestay accommodation arrangements for them, such that they can take their time to find long-term accommodation once they arrive in Australia. The Students Bulletin in AITI provides accommodation information for students.
The student accommodation arrangements commonly seen in Melbourne and Geelong are as follows:
Homestay Homestay is a practical accommodation arrangement for those who have just arrived in Australia as overseas students or for those who wish to better understand Australian culture and society. Homestay enables them to improve English rapidly and to familiarize with the life of local Australians. Such arrangement makes it possible for students to fit into the life of the mainstream Australians in a natural and friendly environment. Our Student Services Department will seek to find students suitable and reliable homestays through Homestay Agencies that have years of experience and good reputation.
Shared Accommodation
Shared accommodation is another common form of arrangement. A student may rent a room in a flat or house and share such areas and facilities as the lounge, kitchen and bath room, and utility bills (including internet bills). Students are strongly advised to read the tenancy agreement carefully before signing an agreement. When renting, the tenant is usually asked to pay the rent in advance as well as a bond that is equivalent to one month’s rent.
Website for shared accommodation in Australia：www.move2rent.com
Independent Accommodation
Independent accommodation is another common form of arrangement. Students are strongly advised to lease through law-abiding agents. They should read the tenancy/lease agreement carefully before signing an agreement. In general, when students rent a property, they are usually asked to pay the rent in advance as well as a bond that is equivalent to one month’s rent.
Websites for independent accommodation：www.realestate.com.auwww.domain.com.au
Hostel
For students without suitable accommodation arrangements, hostel is also a good option. Hostels usually provide a small room furnished with basic furniture. And tenants share with others such facilities as bath rooms, laundries and lounges. Some hostels have internet access. Students are advised to consider such arrangement before having long-term accommodation arrangement.
