Housing FAQs

Apartments

Why are most student housing options located off campus?

Australian universities are ‘commuter campuses’ with the majority of students living off campus. Universities are not really located in college towns like they are in the United States and Canada. Students live in various suburbs around the university, and as a result, you’ll be living in a community that includes all walks of life.

Does SiA own the apartments?

We do not own or operate the student housing provided. Instead we work closely with local landlords and real estate agents to secure good, affordable rental accommodation in the suburbs surrounding universities.

Where are the apartments located?

We select each apartment based on it suitability as an international student housing. All houses are located within walking distance (10 – 20 minutes) or a short public transport commute to the university campus. You will be close to the university and its facilities, plus public transport, cafés and local shopping centres.

What do I need to bring to the house?

All you need to bring is your suitcase and bedding. We’ve worked with international students for over 25 years, so we know what you need and want. Our furnished student housing, includes:

• A fully equipped kitchen: fridge, oven/convection oven, cook top, microwave, pots, pans, cooking utensils, crockery, cutlery, glassware
• Common areas: lounge suite, dining table/ chairs, washing machine, clothes dryer or outdoor clothesline
• Bedroom furniture: single bed, wardrobe, storage space, and in most cases, a study desk and chair
• Some bedrooms have an ensuite bathroom

What do I do if maintenance is required at my apartment?

Simply contact us and we’ll contact the landlord or real estate agent to get it taken care of.

Room

Will I have a single bedroom or will I have to share?

It’s up to you. All students have the opportunity to secure a single bedroom, although some people choose to share a room with a friend for a reduced price per person. Each student gets their own single bed. Please note: only two people who know each other and request to live with each other will have the opportunity to share a room.

Housemates

Who would I be living with?

You will be sharing an apartment with other students from around the world. Although we don’t use any criteria, like interests or nationality to match you with your housemates, most students find they end up living with like-minded people who understand what it’s like to study abroad. Although we don’t use any criteria like interests or nationality to match you with your housemates, we place students together based on their program (eg Study Abroad/Exchange with other Study Abroad/Exchange students, and Undergrad/Postgrads studying their full degree at the Australian university together)

In most cases, you will be given the names and email addresses of your housemates before you depart for Australia. You can also connect on Semester in Australia’s Facebook group.

Can I live with my friends?

Yes, you can choose to live with friends who may also be studying at the same university. Just make sure you apply together. Yes, you can choose to live with friends who may also be studying at the same university. We can easily place you together, and if you have a larger group, we can often secure a whole house/apartment for you.

Utilities, phone and internet

What utilities are included?

Gas, electricity and water are included in the housing fee

What about telephones and cell phones?

There is a telephone connection in each apartment; however the bill must be in the name of a resident, so students/tenants must arrange telephone access through a local service provider with connection and usage fees payable by the tenants. It is a simple procedure and instructions will be provided to tenants upon arrival.

Cell phones can be arranged prior to your arrival as an optional/additional service. To read more about mobile phones, click here.

Before departing for Australia, you can order an Australian cell phone number as well as a handset if you need it. This will allow you to give your family and friends your new phone number, even before you leave! Upon arrival, your phone will be ready and waiting for you in your apartment. With $10 worth of call credit included, you’ll be able to call your family and friends as soon as you get here.

All our housing comes with wireless internet, which will be ready and activated for you upon arrival, so you can connect with family and friends and get your university work done with ease throughout the semester.

Further information regarding these services are provided to students upon final booking of their Semester in Australia accommodation.