Lời khuyên về chỗ ở: Làm thế nào để tìm được chỗ ở và bạn cùng phòng phù hợp

When you arrive in a new country, it can be difficult to find the ideal place to live. You need to be able to find the right type of accommodation for you, at the at the right price.

If you plan to share a house with others, you will also need to find housemates who will be easy to live with... housemates who may even become lifelong friends.

So, we’re here to help you with some advice on finding the right home, and to make sure you know your rights as a housing tenant in Australia.

Renting in Australia

As an international student in Australia, you can rent or ‘lease’ a property by yourself, or with student friends or housemates. You may also choose to live with local Australians so you can also experience a new culture and community at home.

Real estate agents

One option is to apply for rental accommodation managed by a real estate agent who will also manage your rental agreement during your tenancy.

A real estate agent’s office will usually respond promptly to your enquiries and talk to the property owner on your behalf.

Private rentals

You could also apply for accommodation called a private rental, where the owner of the house deals directly with you and manages the property during your tenancy.

It is important to be cautious when looking at private rentals not arranged by registered real estate agents. All property owners must strictly follow regulations on renter conditions and property repairs.

When you are in a private rental arrangement, it may be harder to get quick responses, including when requesting any urgent repairs. So, it’s important to understand your rights and entitlements from the very start of your accommodation search.

Paying a bond

If you rent a house, you will need to pay a security deposit or ‘bond’ (which is usually equivalent to four weeks’ rent). You will also need to pay some rent in advance (usually to cover the first four weeks of your tenancy).

Before you apply for accommodation, carefully check the bond and lease agreements, terms and conditions.

Bond money is held by the relevant state or territory government authority in order to potentially pay for any damages that you, your housemates or house guests may cause to the rental property during your tenancy. Some, or all, of the bond may be refunded to you when your lease ends if there has been no damage done beyond ‘fair wear and tear'.

Important things to note:

Do not give bond money directly to a housemate as you will not be legally protected if they decide not to return the money.
If it is a private rental arrangement, make sure that the bond money is given to the residential bond authority in your Australian state or territory and not directly to the owner of the property. Your property manager will give you an official form to fill out in order to provide your bond.

How to find a rental property and housemates

Firstly, you will need to decide if you want to start a new lease on a rental property or move into an existing ‘sharehouse’:

1. Starting a new lease

Signing a new lease can require more paperwork than moving into an existing sharehouse, but you will have more control over your living situation and be able to choose your future housemates from the start.

You can visit real estate agent websites and offices in the local property area to find a listing of available properties to rent.

If you want to get started online, the most common sites to use when searching for rental properties in Australia are realestate.com.au and Domain.

Even when you have found your preferred accommodation, most real estate agents will require you to visit the property in-person before you apply to live there. This is recommended, so that you have an opportunity to check:

The condition of the property – does it need any urgent repairs?
Safety features – do the doors and windows lock properly?
The neighbourhood – do you feel comfortable in the area?
Location – is it easy to get to your campus, is it close to public transport and shops?
Surrounding noise levels – will you be able to study in that location?

2. Joining an existing sharehouse

If you are planning to move into a household looking for new housemates (or you want to promote a spare room in your house), websites such as flatmates.com.au and Flatmate Finders can be a useful place to start.

When it comes to finding the right housemates for your home, these are some questions you may want to ask them:

How often do you normally clean?
Have you had any difficulty paying rent in the past?
What do you like to do on the weekends and in the evenings?
Do you like to cook? Do you have any pets?
How long are you planning to stay here?

If you’re applying to live in a room in an existing household, they might ask you the same things, so it’s a good idea to think about your answers in advance.

Even when joining an existing sharehouse, make sure that you are on the lease agreement so that you and your financial bond are protected when you leave the house. Do not give your bond money to one of your housemates.

How do I fill out a rental application?

The real estate agent who is advertising and managing the property you’re applying for will tell you what you need to do.

This will include completing an application form. The information you will need to provide may include copies of personal identification, information on your rental history, and some evidence that you will be able to pay your rent, such as an employment contract or pay slips.

The rental market can be competitive, especially in larger cities, so it’s a good idea to keep checking vacancy listings and apply for your preferred accommodation as quickly as possible. It also helps to add a cover letter so you can why you want this particular property and why you are a suitable tenant.

Your rights and obligations

You have the legal right to feel secure at home and live in accommodation that is well maintained and has working water and electricity. But you also need to pay your rent on time and keep the property clean and undamaged.

The real estate agent (property manager) or landlord (property owner) will arrange to inspect the property every 3-6 months. Legally, they must give you at least seven days' notice before entering your home.

Find out more about your rights in our "Accommodation: know your rights" blog post.

There are also a range of international student support services and help available within your state or territory:

When you arrive in a new country, it can be difficult to find the ideal place to live. You need to be able to find the right type of accommodation for you, at the at the right price.

If you plan to share a house with others, you will also need to find housemates who will be easy to live with... housemates who may even become lifelong friends.

So, we’re here to help you with some advice on finding the right home, and to make sure you know your rights as a housing tenant in Australia.

Renting in Australia

As an international student in Australia, you can rent or ‘lease’ a property by yourself, or with student friends or housemates. You may also choose to live with local Australians so you can also experience a new culture and community at home.

Real estate agents

One option is to apply for rental accommodation managed by a real estate agent who will also manage your rental agreement during your tenancy.

A real estate agent’s office will usually respond promptly to your enquiries and talk to the property owner on your behalf.

Private rentals

You could also apply for accommodation called a private rental, where the owner of the house deals directly with you and manages the property during your tenancy.

It is important to be cautious when looking at private rentals not arranged by registered real estate agents. All property owners must strictly follow regulations on renter conditions and property repairs.

When you are in a private rental arrangement, it may be harder to get quick responses, including when requesting any urgent repairs. So, it’s important to understand your rights and entitlements from the very start of your accommodation search.

Paying a bond

If you rent a house, you will need to pay a security deposit or ‘bond’ (which is usually equivalent to four weeks’ rent). You will also need to pay some rent in advance (usually to cover the first four weeks of your tenancy).

Before you apply for accommodation, carefully check the bond and lease agreements, terms and conditions.

Bond money is held by the relevant state or territory government authority in order to potentially pay for any damages that you, your housemates or house guests may cause to the rental property during your tenancy. Some, or all, of the bond may be refunded to you when your lease ends if there has been no damage done beyond ‘fair wear and tear'.

Important things to note:

Do not give bond money directly to a housemate as you will not be legally protected if they decide not to return the money.
If it is a private rental arrangement, make sure that the bond money is given to the residential bond authority in your Australian state or territory and not directly to the owner of the property. Your property manager will give you an official form to fill out in order to provide your bond.

How to find a rental property and housemates

Firstly, you will need to decide if you want to start a new lease on a rental property or move into an existing ‘sharehouse’:

1. Starting a new lease

Signing a new lease can require more paperwork than moving into an existing sharehouse, but you will have more control over your living situation and be able to choose your future housemates from the start.

You can visit real estate agent websites and offices in the local property area to find a listing of available properties to rent.

If you want to get started online, the most common sites to use when searching for rental properties in Australia are realestate.com.au and Domain.

Even when you have found your preferred accommodation, most real estate agents will require you to visit the property in-person before you apply to live there. This is recommended, so that you have an opportunity to check:

The condition of the property – does it need any urgent repairs?
Safety features – do the doors and windows lock properly?
The neighbourhood – do you feel comfortable in the area?
Location – is it easy to get to your campus, is it close to public transport and shops?
Surrounding noise levels – will you be able to study in that location?

2. Joining an existing sharehouse

If you are planning to move into a household looking for new housemates (or you want to promote a spare room in your house), websites such as flatmates.com.au and Flatmate Finders can be a useful place to start.

When it comes to finding the right housemates for your home, these are some questions you may want to ask them:

How often do you normally clean?
Have you had any difficulty paying rent in the past?
What do you like to do on the weekends and in the evenings?
Do you like to cook? Do you have any pets?
How long are you planning to stay here?

If you’re applying to live in a room in an existing household, they might ask you the same things, so it’s a good idea to think about your answers in advance.

Even when joining an existing sharehouse, make sure that you are on the lease agreement so that you and your financial bond are protected when you leave the house. Do not give your bond money to one of your housemates.

How do I fill out a rental application?

The real estate agent who is advertising and managing the property you’re applying for will tell you what you need to do.

This will include completing an application form. The information you will need to provide may include copies of personal identification, information on your rental history, and some evidence that you will be able to pay your rent, such as an employment contract or pay slips.

The rental market can be competitive, especially in larger cities, so it’s a good idea to keep checking vacancy listings and apply for your preferred accommodation as quickly as possible. It also helps to add a cover letter so you can why you want this particular property and why you are a suitable tenant.

Your rights and obligations

You have the legal right to feel secure at home and live in accommodation that is well maintained and has working water and electricity. But you also need to pay your rent on time and keep the property clean and undamaged.

The real estate agent (property manager) or landlord (property owner) will arrange to inspect the property every 3-6 months. Legally, they must give you at least seven days' notice before entering your home.

Find out more about your rights in our "Accommodation: know your rights" blog post.

There are also a range of international student support services and help available within your state or territory:

When you arrive in a new country, it can be difficult to find the ideal place to live. You need to be able to find the right type of accommodation for you, at the at the right price.

If you plan to share a house with others, you will also need to find housemates who will be easy to live with... housemates who may even become lifelong friends.

So, we’re here to help you with some advice on finding the right home, and to make sure you know your rights as a housing tenant in Australia.

Renting in Australia

As an international student in Australia, you can rent or ‘lease’ a property by yourself, or with student friends or housemates. You may also choose to live with local Australians so you can also experience a new culture and community at home.

Real estate agents

One option is to apply for rental accommodation managed by a real estate agent who will also manage your rental agreement during your tenancy.

A real estate agent’s office will usually respond promptly to your enquiries and talk to the property owner on your behalf.

Private rentals

You could also apply for accommodation called a private rental, where the owner of the house deals directly with you and manages the property during your tenancy.

It is important to be cautious when looking at private rentals not arranged by registered real estate agents. All property owners must strictly follow regulations on renter conditions and property repairs.

When you are in a private rental arrangement, it may be harder to get quick responses, including when requesting any urgent repairs. So, it’s important to understand your rights and entitlements from the very start of your accommodation search.

Paying a bond

If you rent a house, you will need to pay a security deposit or ‘bond’ (which is usually equivalent to four weeks’ rent). You will also need to pay some rent in advance (usually to cover the first four weeks of your tenancy).

Before you apply for accommodation, carefully check the bond and lease agreements, terms and conditions.

Bond money is held by the relevant state or territory government authority in order to potentially pay for any damages that you, your housemates or house guests may cause to the rental property during your tenancy. Some, or all, of the bond may be refunded to you when your lease ends if there has been no damage done beyond ‘fair wear and tear'.

Important things to note:

Do not give bond money directly to a housemate as you will not be legally protected if they decide not to return the money.
If it is a private rental arrangement, make sure that the bond money is given to the residential bond authority in your Australian state or territory and not directly to the owner of the property. Your property manager will give you an official form to fill out in order to provide your bond.

How to find a rental property and housemates

Firstly, you will need to decide if you want to start a new lease on a rental property or move into an existing ‘sharehouse’:

1. Starting a new lease

Signing a new lease can require more paperwork than moving into an existing sharehouse, but you will have more control over your living situation and be able to choose your future housemates from the start.

You can visit real estate agent websites and offices in the local property area to find a listing of available properties to rent.

If you want to get started online, the most common sites to use when searching for rental properties in Australia are realestate.com.au and Domain.

Even when you have found your preferred accommodation, most real estate agents will require you to visit the property in-person before you apply to live there. This is recommended, so that you have an opportunity to check:

The condition of the property – does it need any urgent repairs?
Safety features – do the doors and windows lock properly?
The neighbourhood – do you feel comfortable in the area?
Location – is it easy to get to your campus, is it close to public transport and shops?
Surrounding noise levels – will you be able to study in that location?

2. Joining an existing sharehouse

If you are planning to move into a household looking for new housemates (or you want to promote a spare room in your house), websites such as flatmates.com.au and Flatmate Finders can be a useful place to start.

When it comes to finding the right housemates for your home, these are some questions you may want to ask them:

How often do you normally clean?
Have you had any difficulty paying rent in the past?
What do you like to do on the weekends and in the evenings?
Do you like to cook? Do you have any pets?
How long are you planning to stay here?

If you’re applying to live in a room in an existing household, they might ask you the same things, so it’s a good idea to think about your answers in advance.

Even when joining an existing sharehouse, make sure that you are on the lease agreement so that you and your financial bond are protected when you leave the house. Do not give your bond money to one of your housemates.

How do I fill out a rental application?

The real estate agent who is advertising and managing the property you’re applying for will tell you what you need to do.

This will include completing an application form. The information you will need to provide may include copies of personal identification, information on your rental history, and some evidence that you will be able to pay your rent, such as an employment contract or pay slips.

The rental market can be competitive, especially in larger cities, so it’s a good idea to keep checking vacancy listings and apply for your preferred accommodation as quickly as possible. It also helps to add a cover letter so you can why you want this particular property and why you are a suitable tenant.

Your rights and obligations

You have the legal right to feel secure at home and live in accommodation that is well maintained and has working water and electricity. But you also need to pay your rent on time and keep the property clean and undamaged.

The real estate agent (property manager) or landlord (property owner) will arrange to inspect the property every 3-6 months. Legally, they must give you at least seven days' notice before entering your home.

Find out more about your rights in our "Accommodation: know your rights" blog post.

There are also a range of international student support services and help available within your state or territory:

When you arrive in a new country, it can be difficult to find the ideal place to live. You need to be able to find the right type of accommodation for you, at the at the right price.

If you plan to share a house with others, you will also need to find housemates who will be easy to live with... housemates who may even become lifelong friends.

So, we’re here to help you with some advice on finding the right home, and to make sure you know your rights as a housing tenant in Australia.

Renting in Australia

As an international student in Australia, you can rent or ‘lease’ a property by yourself, or with student friends or housemates. You may also choose to live with local Australians so you can also experience a new culture and community at home.

Real estate agents

One option is to apply for rental accommodation managed by a real estate agent who will also manage your rental agreement during your tenancy.

A real estate agent’s office will usually respond promptly to your enquiries and talk to the property owner on your behalf.

Private rentals

You could also apply for accommodation called a private rental, where the owner of the house deals directly with you and manages the property during your tenancy.

It is important to be cautious when looking at private rentals not arranged by registered real estate agents. All property owners must strictly follow regulations on renter conditions and property repairs.

When you are in a private rental arrangement, it may be harder to get quick responses, including when requesting any urgent repairs. So, it’s important to understand your rights and entitlements from the very start of your accommodation search.

Paying a bond

If you rent a house, you will need to pay a security deposit or ‘bond’ (which is usually equivalent to four weeks’ rent). You will also need to pay some rent in advance (usually to cover the first four weeks of your tenancy).

Before you apply for accommodation, carefully check the bond and lease agreements, terms and conditions.

Bond money is held by the relevant state or territory government authority in order to potentially pay for any damages that you, your housemates or house guests may cause to the rental property during your tenancy. Some, or all, of the bond may be refunded to you when your lease ends if there has been no damage done beyond ‘fair wear and tear'.

Important things to note:

Do not give bond money directly to a housemate as you will not be legally protected if they decide not to return the money.
If it is a private rental arrangement, make sure that the bond money is given to the residential bond authority in your Australian state or territory and not directly to the owner of the property. Your property manager will give you an official form to fill out in order to provide your bond.

How to find a rental property and housemates

Firstly, you will need to decide if you want to start a new lease on a rental property or move into an existing ‘sharehouse’:

1. Starting a new lease

Signing a new lease can require more paperwork than moving into an existing sharehouse, but you will have more control over your living situation and be able to choose your future housemates from the start.

You can visit real estate agent websites and offices in the local property area to find a listing of available properties to rent.

If you want to get started online, the most common sites to use when searching for rental properties in Australia are realestate.com.au and Domain.

Even when you have found your preferred accommodation, most real estate agents will require you to visit the property in-person before you apply to live there. This is recommended, so that you have an opportunity to check:

The condition of the property – does it need any urgent repairs?
Safety features – do the doors and windows lock properly?
The neighbourhood – do you feel comfortable in the area?
Location – is it easy to get to your campus, is it close to public transport and shops?
Surrounding noise levels – will you be able to study in that location?

2. Joining an existing sharehouse

If you are planning to move into a household looking for new housemates (or you want to promote a spare room in your house), websites such as flatmates.com.au and Flatmate Finders can be a useful place to start.

When it comes to finding the right housemates for your home, these are some questions you may want to ask them:

How often do you normally clean?
Have you had any difficulty paying rent in the past?
What do you like to do on the weekends and in the evenings?
Do you like to cook? Do you have any pets?
How long are you planning to stay here?

If you’re applying to live in a room in an existing household, they might ask you the same things, so it’s a good idea to think about your answers in advance.

Even when joining an existing sharehouse, make sure that you are on the lease agreement so that you and your financial bond are protected when you leave the house. Do not give your bond money to one of your housemates.

How do I fill out a rental application?

The real estate agent who is advertising and managing the property you’re applying for will tell you what you need to do.

This will include completing an application form. The information you will need to provide may include copies of personal identification, information on your rental history, and some evidence that you will be able to pay your rent, such as an employment contract or pay slips.

The rental market can be competitive, especially in larger cities, so it’s a good idea to keep checking vacancy listings and apply for your preferred accommodation as quickly as possible. It also helps to add a cover letter so you can why you want this particular property and why you are a suitable tenant.

Your rights and obligations

You have the legal right to feel secure at home and live in accommodation that is well maintained and has working water and electricity. But you also need to pay your rent on time and keep the property clean and undamaged.

The real estate agent (property manager) or landlord (property owner) will arrange to inspect the property every 3-6 months. Legally, they must give you at least seven days' notice before entering your home.

Find out more about your rights in our "Accommodation: know your rights" blog post.

There are also a range of international student support services and help available within your state or territory:

When you arrive in a new country, it can be difficult to find the ideal place to live. You need to be able to find the right type of accommodation for you, at the at the right price.

If you plan to share a house with others, you will also need to find housemates who will be easy to live with... housemates who may even become lifelong friends.

So, we’re here to help you with some advice on finding the right home, and to make sure you know your rights as a housing tenant in Australia.

Renting in Australia

As an international student in Australia, you can rent or ‘lease’ a property by yourself, or with student friends or housemates. You may also choose to live with local Australians so you can also experience a new culture and community at home.

Real estate agents

One option is to apply for rental accommodation managed by a real estate agent who will also manage your rental agreement during your tenancy.

A real estate agent’s office will usually respond promptly to your enquiries and talk to the property owner on your behalf.

Private rentals

You could also apply for accommodation called a private rental, where the owner of the house deals directly with you and manages the property during your tenancy.

It is important to be cautious when looking at private rentals not arranged by registered real estate agents. All property owners must strictly follow regulations on renter conditions and property repairs.

When you are in a private rental arrangement, it may be harder to get quick responses, including when requesting any urgent repairs. So, it’s important to understand your rights and entitlements from the very start of your accommodation search.

Paying a bond

If you rent a house, you will need to pay a security deposit or ‘bond’ (which is usually equivalent to four weeks’ rent). You will also need to pay some rent in advance (usually to cover the first four weeks of your tenancy).

Before you apply for accommodation, carefully check the bond and lease agreements, terms and conditions.

Bond money is held by the relevant state or territory government authority in order to potentially pay for any damages that you, your housemates or house guests may cause to the rental property during your tenancy. Some, or all, of the bond may be refunded to you when your lease ends if there has been no damage done beyond ‘fair wear and tear'.

Important things to note:

Do not give bond money directly to a housemate as you will not be legally protected if they decide not to return the money.
If it is a private rental arrangement, make sure that the bond money is given to the residential bond authority in your Australian state or territory and not directly to the owner of the property. Your property manager will give you an official form to fill out in order to provide your bond.

How to find a rental property and housemates

Firstly, you will need to decide if you want to start a new lease on a rental property or move into an existing ‘sharehouse’:

1. Starting a new lease

Signing a new lease can require more paperwork than moving into an existing sharehouse, but you will have more control over your living situation and be able to choose your future housemates from the start.

You can visit real estate agent websites and offices in the local property area to find a listing of available properties to rent.

If you want to get started online, the most common sites to use when searching for rental properties in Australia are realestate.com.au and Domain.

Even when you have found your preferred accommodation, most real estate agents will require you to visit the property in-person before you apply to live there. This is recommended, so that you have an opportunity to check:

The condition of the property – does it need any urgent repairs?
Safety features – do the doors and windows lock properly?
The neighbourhood – do you feel comfortable in the area?
Location – is it easy to get to your campus, is it close to public transport and shops?
Surrounding noise levels – will you be able to study in that location?

2. Joining an existing sharehouse

If you are planning to move into a household looking for new housemates (or you want to promote a spare room in your house), websites such as flatmates.com.au and Flatmate Finders can be a useful place to start.

When it comes to finding the right housemates for your home, these are some questions you may want to ask them:

How often do you normally clean?
Have you had any difficulty paying rent in the past?
What do you like to do on the weekends and in the evenings?
Do you like to cook? Do you have any pets?
How long are you planning to stay here?

If you’re applying to live in a room in an existing household, they might ask you the same things, so it’s a good idea to think about your answers in advance.

Even when joining an existing sharehouse, make sure that you are on the lease agreement so that you and your financial bond are protected when you leave the house. Do not give your bond money to one of your housemates.

How do I fill out a rental application?

The real estate agent who is advertising and managing the property you’re applying for will tell you what you need to do.

This will include completing an application form. The information you will need to provide may include copies of personal identification, information on your rental history, and some evidence that you will be able to pay your rent, such as an employment contract or pay slips.

The rental market can be competitive, especially in larger cities, so it’s a good idea to keep checking vacancy listings and apply for your preferred accommodation as quickly as possible. It also helps to add a cover letter so you can why you want this particular property and why you are a suitable tenant.

Your rights and obligations

You have the legal right to feel secure at home and live in accommodation that is well maintained and has working water and electricity. But you also need to pay your rent on time and keep the property clean and undamaged.

The real estate agent (property manager) or landlord (property owner) will arrange to inspect the property every 3-6 months. Legally, they must give you at least seven days' notice before entering your home.

Find out more about your rights in our "Accommodation: know your rights" blog post.

There are also a range of international student support services and help available within your state or territory:

When you arrive in a new country, it can be difficult to find the ideal place to live. You need to be able to find the right type of accommodation for you, at the at the right price.

If you plan to share a house with others, you will also need to find housemates who will be easy to live with... housemates who may even become lifelong friends.

So, we’re here to help you with some advice on finding the right home, and to make sure you know your rights as a housing tenant in Australia.

Renting in Australia

As an international student in Australia, you can rent or ‘lease’ a property by yourself, or with student friends or housemates. You may also choose to live with local Australians so you can also experience a new culture and community at home.

Real estate agents

One option is to apply for rental accommodation managed by a real estate agent who will also manage your rental agreement during your tenancy.

A real estate agent’s office will usually respond promptly to your enquiries and talk to the property owner on your behalf.

Private rentals

You could also apply for accommodation called a private rental, where the owner of the house deals directly with you and manages the property during your tenancy.

It is important to be cautious when looking at private rentals not arranged by registered real estate agents. All property owners must strictly follow regulations on renter conditions and property repairs.

When you are in a private rental arrangement, it may be harder to get quick responses, including when requesting any urgent repairs. So, it’s important to understand your rights and entitlements from the very start of your accommodation search.

Paying a bond

If you rent a house, you will need to pay a security deposit or ‘bond’ (which is usually equivalent to four weeks’ rent). You will also need to pay some rent in advance (usually to cover the first four weeks of your tenancy).

Before you apply for accommodation, carefully check the bond and lease agreements, terms and conditions.

Bond money is held by the relevant state or territory government authority in order to potentially pay for any damages that you, your housemates or house guests may cause to the rental property during your tenancy. Some, or all, of the bond may be refunded to you when your lease ends if there has been no damage done beyond ‘fair wear and tear'.

Important things to note:

Do not give bond money directly to a housemate as you will not be legally protected if they decide not to return the money.
If it is a private rental arrangement, make sure that the bond money is given to the residential bond authority in your Australian state or territory and not directly to the owner of the property. Your property manager will give you an official form to fill out in order to provide your bond.

How to find a rental property and housemates

Firstly, you will need to decide if you want to start a new lease on a rental property or move into an existing ‘sharehouse’:

1. Starting a new lease

Signing a new lease can require more paperwork than moving into an existing sharehouse, but you will have more control over your living situation and be able to choose your future housemates from the start.

You can visit real estate agent websites and offices in the local property area to find a listing of available properties to rent.

If you want to get started online, the most common sites to use when searching for rental properties in Australia are realestate.com.au and Domain.

Even when you have found your preferred accommodation, most real estate agents will require you to visit the property in-person before you apply to live there. This is recommended, so that you have an opportunity to check:

The condition of the property – does it need any urgent repairs?
Safety features – do the doors and windows lock properly?
The neighbourhood – do you feel comfortable in the area?
Location – is it easy to get to your campus, is it close to public transport and shops?
Surrounding noise levels – will you be able to study in that location?

2. Joining an existing sharehouse

If you are planning to move into a household looking for new housemates (or you want to promote a spare room in your house), websites such as flatmates.com.au and Flatmate Finders can be a useful place to start.

When it comes to finding the right housemates for your home, these are some questions you may want to ask them:

How often do you normally clean?
Have you had any difficulty paying rent in the past?
What do you like to do on the weekends and in the evenings?
Do you like to cook? Do you have any pets?
How long are you planning to stay here?

If you’re applying to live in a room in an existing household, they might ask you the same things, so it’s a good idea to think about your answers in advance.

Even when joining an existing sharehouse, make sure that you are on the lease agreement so that you and your financial bond are protected when you leave the house. Do not give your bond money to one of your housemates.

How do I fill out a rental application?

The real estate agent who is advertising and managing the property you’re applying for will tell you what you need to do.

This will include completing an application form. The information you will need to provide may include copies of personal identification, information on your rental history, and some evidence that you will be able to pay your rent, such as an employment contract or pay slips.

The rental market can be competitive, especially in larger cities, so it’s a good idea to keep checking vacancy listings and apply for your preferred accommodation as quickly as possible. It also helps to add a cover letter so you can why you want this particular property and why you are a suitable tenant.

Your rights and obligations

You have the legal right to feel secure at home and live in accommodation that is well maintained and has working water and electricity. But you also need to pay your rent on time and keep the property clean and undamaged.

The real estate agent (property manager) or landlord (property owner) will arrange to inspect the property every 3-6 months. Legally, they must give you at least seven days' notice before entering your home.

Find out more about your rights in our "Accommodation: know your rights" blog post.

There are also a range of international student support services and help available within your state or territory:

When you arrive in a new country, it can be difficult to find the ideal place to live. You need to be able to find the right type of accommodation for you, at the at the right price.

If you plan to share a house with others, you will also need to find housemates who will be easy to live with... housemates who may even become lifelong friends.

So, we’re here to help you with some advice on finding the right home, and to make sure you know your rights as a housing tenant in Australia.

Renting in Australia

As an international student in Australia, you can rent or ‘lease’ a property by yourself, or with student friends or housemates. You may also choose to live with local Australians so you can also experience a new culture and community at home.

Real estate agents

One option is to apply for rental accommodation managed by a real estate agent who will also manage your rental agreement during your tenancy.

A real estate agent’s office will usually respond promptly to your enquiries and talk to the property owner on your behalf.

Private rentals

You could also apply for accommodation called a private rental, where the owner of the house deals directly with you and manages the property during your tenancy.

It is important to be cautious when looking at private rentals not arranged by registered real estate agents. All property owners must strictly follow regulations on renter conditions and property repairs.

When you are in a private rental arrangement, it may be harder to get quick responses, including when requesting any urgent repairs. So, it’s important to understand your rights and entitlements from the very start of your accommodation search.

Paying a bond

If you rent a house, you will need to pay a security deposit or ‘bond’ (which is usually equivalent to four weeks’ rent). You will also need to pay some rent in advance (usually to cover the first four weeks of your tenancy).

Before you apply for accommodation, carefully check the bond and lease agreements, terms and conditions.

Bond money is held by the relevant state or territory government authority in order to potentially pay for any damages that you, your housemates or house guests may cause to the rental property during your tenancy. Some, or all, of the bond may be refunded to you when your lease ends if there has been no damage done beyond ‘fair wear and tear'.

Important things to note:

Do not give bond money directly to a housemate as you will not be legally protected if they decide not to return the money.
If it is a private rental arrangement, make sure that the bond money is given to the residential bond authority in your Australian state or territory and not directly to the owner of the property. Your property manager will give you an official form to fill out in order to provide your bond.

How to find a rental property and housemates

Firstly, you will need to decide if you want to start a new lease on a rental property or move into an existing ‘sharehouse’:

1. Starting a new lease

Signing a new lease can require more paperwork than moving into an existing sharehouse, but you will have more control over your living situation and be able to choose your future housemates from the start.

You can visit real estate agent websites and offices in the local property area to find a listing of available properties to rent.

If you want to get started online, the most common sites to use when searching for rental properties in Australia are realestate.com.au and Domain.

Even when you have found your preferred accommodation, most real estate agents will require you to visit the property in-person before you apply to live there. This is recommended, so that you have an opportunity to check:

The condition of the property – does it need any urgent repairs?
Safety features – do the doors and windows lock properly?
The neighbourhood – do you feel comfortable in the area?
Location – is it easy to get to your campus, is it close to public transport and shops?
Surrounding noise levels – will you be able to study in that location?

2. Joining an existing sharehouse

If you are planning to move into a household looking for new housemates (or you want to promote a spare room in your house), websites such as flatmates.com.au and Flatmate Finders can be a useful place to start.

When it comes to finding the right housemates for your home, these are some questions you may want to ask them:

How often do you normally clean?
Have you had any difficulty paying rent in the past?
What do you like to do on the weekends and in the evenings?
Do you like to cook? Do you have any pets?
How long are you planning to stay here?

If you’re applying to live in a room in an existing household, they might ask you the same things, so it’s a good idea to think about your answers in advance.

Even when joining an existing sharehouse, make sure that you are on the lease agreement so that you and your financial bond are protected when you leave the house. Do not give your bond money to one of your housemates.

How do I fill out a rental application?

The real estate agent who is advertising and managing the property you’re applying for will tell you what you need to do.

This will include completing an application form. The information you will need to provide may include copies of personal identification, information on your rental history, and some evidence that you will be able to pay your rent, such as an employment contract or pay slips.

The rental market can be competitive, especially in larger cities, so it’s a good idea to keep checking vacancy listings and apply for your preferred accommodation as quickly as possible. It also helps to add a cover letter so you can why you want this particular property and why you are a suitable tenant.

Your rights and obligations

You have the legal right to feel secure at home and live in accommodation that is well maintained and has working water and electricity. But you also need to pay your rent on time and keep the property clean and undamaged.

The real estate agent (property manager) or landlord (property owner) will arrange to inspect the property every 3-6 months. Legally, they must give you at least seven days' notice before entering your home.

Find out more about your rights in our "Accommodation: know your rights" blog post.

There are also a range of international student support services and help available within your state or territory:

When you arrive in a new country, it can be difficult to find the ideal place to live. You need to be able to find the right type of accommodation for you, at the at the right price.

If you plan to share a house with others, you will also need to find housemates who will be easy to live with... housemates who may even become lifelong friends.

So, we’re here to help you with some advice on finding the right home, and to make sure you know your rights as a housing tenant in Australia.

Renting in Australia

As an international student in Australia, you can rent or ‘lease’ a property by yourself, or with student friends or housemates. You may also choose to live with local Australians so you can also experience a new culture and community at home.

Real estate agents

One option is to apply for rental accommodation managed by a real estate agent who will also manage your rental agreement during your tenancy.

A real estate agent’s office will usually respond promptly to your enquiries and talk to the property owner on your behalf.

Private rentals

You could also apply for accommodation called a private rental, where the owner of the house deals directly with you and manages the property during your tenancy.

It is important to be cautious when looking at private rentals not arranged by registered real estate agents. All property owners must strictly follow regulations on renter conditions and property repairs.

When you are in a private rental arrangement, it may be harder to get quick responses, including when requesting any urgent repairs. So, it’s important to understand your rights and entitlements from the very start of your accommodation search.

Paying a bond

If you rent a house, you will need to pay a security deposit or ‘bond’ (which is usually equivalent to four weeks’ rent). You will also need to pay some rent in advance (usually to cover the first four weeks of your tenancy).

Before you apply for accommodation, carefully check the bond and lease agreements, terms and conditions.

Bond money is held by the relevant state or territory government authority in order to potentially pay for any damages that you, your housemates or house guests may cause to the rental property during your tenancy. Some, or all, of the bond may be refunded to you when your lease ends if there has been no damage done beyond ‘fair wear and tear'.

Important things to note:

Do not give bond money directly to a housemate as you will not be legally protected if they decide not to return the money.
If it is a private rental arrangement, make sure that the bond money is given to the residential bond authority in your Australian state or territory and not directly to the owner of the property. Your property manager will give you an official form to fill out in order to provide your bond.

How to find a rental property and housemates

Firstly, you will need to decide if you want to start a new lease on a rental property or move into an existing ‘sharehouse’:

1. Starting a new lease

Signing a new lease can require more paperwork than moving into an existing sharehouse, but you will have more control over your living situation and be able to choose your future housemates from the start.

You can visit real estate agent websites and offices in the local property area to find a listing of available properties to rent.

If you want to get started online, the most common sites to use when searching for rental properties in Australia are realestate.com.au and Domain.

Even when you have found your preferred accommodation, most real estate agents will require you to visit the property in-person before you apply to live there. This is recommended, so that you have an opportunity to check:

The condition of the property – does it need any urgent repairs?
Safety features – do the doors and windows lock properly?
The neighbourhood – do you feel comfortable in the area?
Location – is it easy to get to your campus, is it close to public transport and shops?
Surrounding noise levels – will you be able to study in that location?

2. Joining an existing sharehouse

If you are planning to move into a household looking for new housemates (or you want to promote a spare room in your house), websites such as flatmates.com.au and Flatmate Finders can be a useful place to start.

When it comes to finding the right housemates for your home, these are some questions you may want to ask them:

How often do you normally clean?
Have you had any difficulty paying rent in the past?
What do you like to do on the weekends and in the evenings?
Do you like to cook? Do you have any pets?
How long are you planning to stay here?

If you’re applying to live in a room in an existing household, they might ask you the same things, so it’s a good idea to think about your answers in advance.

Even when joining an existing sharehouse, make sure that you are on the lease agreement so that you and your financial bond are protected when you leave the house. Do not give your bond money to one of your housemates.

How do I fill out a rental application?

The real estate agent who is advertising and managing the property you’re applying for will tell you what you need to do.

This will include completing an application form. The information you will need to provide may include copies of personal identification, information on your rental history, and some evidence that you will be able to pay your rent, such as an employment contract or pay slips.

The rental market can be competitive, especially in larger cities, so it’s a good idea to keep checking vacancy listings and apply for your preferred accommodation as quickly as possible. It also helps to add a cover letter so you can why you want this particular property and why you are a suitable tenant.

Your rights and obligations

You have the legal right to feel secure at home and live in accommodation that is well maintained and has working water and electricity. But you also need to pay your rent on time and keep the property clean and undamaged.

The real estate agent (property manager) or landlord (property owner) will arrange to inspect the property every 3-6 months. Legally, they must give you at least seven days' notice before entering your home.

Find out more about your rights in our "Accommodation: know your rights" blog post.

There are also a range of international student support services and help available within your state or territory:

Tìm được nơi lý tưởng để sống khi đến một quốc gia mới là điều không dễ dàng gì. Chỗ ở cần tìm phải phù hợp về loại hình cũng như giá cả.

Nếu bạn dự định sống chung nhà với người khác, bạn cũng sẽ cần phải tìm những người bạn cùng nhà dễ sống cùng... những thậm chí có thể trở thành bạn tốt suốt đời.

Vì vậy, chúng tôi rất sẵn lòng cho bạn một số lời khuyên trong việc tìm chỗ ở phù hợp và đảm bảo bạn hiểu về các quyền của mình với tư cách người thuê nhà tại Australia.

Thuê nhà ở Australia

Là sinh viên quốc tế tại Australia, bạn có thể thuê hay “ký hợp đồng thuê” nhà đất một mình hoặc với bạn học hoặc bạn cùng nhà. Bạn cũng có thể chọn sống cùng nhà với người Australia địa phương để trải nghiệm văn hóa và cộng đồng mới.

Đại lý môi giới nhà đất

Một lựa chọn nhà ở mà bạn có là đăng ký chỗ ở cho thuê do đại lý môi giới nhà đất quản lý, bên này cũng sẽ quản lý hợp đồng thuê của bạn trong thời gian thuê.

Thông thường, văn phòng đại lý môi giới nhà đất sẽ giúp bạn giải đáp mọi thắc mắc một cách kịp thời và thay mặt bạn trao đổi với chủ sở hữu nhà đất.

Thuê nhà trực tiếp với chính chủ

Bạn cũng có thể đăng ký chỗ ở được gọi là cho thuê tư nhân, trong đó chủ sở hữu ngôi nhà giao dịch trực tiếp với bạn và quản lý tài sản trong thời gian bạn thuê nhà.

Quan trọng là bạn phải hành động thận trọng khi xem xét thuê chính chủ không do đại lý môi giới nhà đất đã đăng ký sắp xếp tiến hành. Mọi chủ sở hữu nhà đất phải tuân thủ nghiêm ngặt các quy định về điều kiện của người thuê và việc sửa chữa tài sản.

Khi thuê chính chủ, bạn có thể gặp khó khăn hơn trong việc nhận được phản hồi nhanh chóng, kể cả khi yêu cầu sửa chữa khẩn cấp. Vì vậy, việc hiểu rõ quyền và quyền lợi của mình ngay từ khi bắt đầu tìm kiếm chỗ ở là điều quan trọng.

Thanh toán khoản đặt cọc

Nếu thuê nhà ở, bạn sẽ phải trả một khoản tiền ủy thác hay “đặt cọc” (thường tương đương với tiền thuê nhà bốn tuần). Bạn cũng sẽ cần phải trả trước một số tiền thuê nhà (thường là để trang trải cho thời gian thuê bốn tuần đầu tiên của bạn).

Trước khi bạn nộp đơn đăng ký chỗ ở, hãy xác nhận kỹ vấn đề tiền đặt cọc và thỏa thuận cho thuê, điều khoản và điều kiện.

Tiền đặt cọc do cơ quan công quyền có liên quan của bang hoặc lãnh thổ nắm giữ nhằm chi trả cho mọi thiệt hại có thể có mà bạn, bạn cùng nhà hoặc khách đến thăm nhà có thể gây ra cho nhà đất cho thuê trong thời gian thuê của bạn. Nếu không có thiệt hại nào vượt mức “hao mòn hợp lý trong quá trình sử dụng”, bạn có thể được hoàn lại một phần hoặc toàn bộ khoản tiền đặt cọc khi hợp đồng thuê nhà chấm dứt.

Điều quan trọng cần lưu ý:

Không được trực tiếp giao tiền đặt cọc cho bạn cùng nhà vì nếu họ quyết định không trả lại tiền, bạn sẽ không được pháp luật bảo vệ.
Nếu là hợp đồng thuê chính chủ, hãy đảm bảo rằng tiền đặt cọc được giao cho cơ quan quản lý tiền đặt cọc cư trú ở bang hoặc lãnh thổ Australia bạn đang sống và không trực tiếp giao cho chủ sở hữu nhà đất. Quản lý nhà đất sẽ cung cấp cho bạn biểu mẫu chính thức cần điền để thanh toán tiền đặt cọc.

Cách tìm nhà đất cho thuê và bạn cùng nhà

Trước tiên, bạn sẽ cần quyết định xem mình muốn bắt đầu hợp đồng thuê mới đối với nhà đất cho thuê hay chuyển sang “nhà chung” có sẵn:

1. Bắt đầu hợp đồng thuê mới

Việc ký hợp đồng thuê mới có thể đòi hỏi nhiều giấy tờ hơn việc chuyển vào ở chung nhà có sẵn, nhưng bạn sẽ có nhiều quyền kiểm soát hơn đối với tình trạng sống cùng như được chọn bạn cùng nhà tương lai ngay từ đầu.

Bạn có thể truy cập các trang web và ghé thăm văn phòng của đại lý môi giới nhà đất trong khu vực nhà đất địa phương để tìm danh sách nhà đất cho thuê có sẵn.

Nếu muốn bắt đầu bằng hình thức trực tuyến, hãy sử dụng các trang web phổ biến nhất để tìm kiếm nhà đất cho thuê tại Australia, như realestate.com.au và Domain.

Ngay cả khi bạn đã tìm thấy chỗ ở ưa thích, hầu hết đại lý môi giới nhà đất sẽ yêu cầu bạn trực tiếp đến thăm nhà đất trước khi nộp đơn đăng ký sống ở đó. Bạn nên làm vậy để có cơ hội kiểm tra:

Tình trạng nhà đất – có gì cần sửa chữa khẩn cấp không?
Tính năng an toàn – cửa ra vào và cửa sổ có khóa đúng cách không?
Hàng xóm – bạn có thấy thoải mái trong khu vực này không?
Địa điểm – từ đây đến trường có dễ không, chỗ này có gần điểm giao thông công cộng và các cửa hàng không?
Mức độ ồn xung quanh – bạn có thể học tập tại địa điểm đó không?

2. Vào ở chung nhà có sẵn

Nếu bạn dự định chuyển vào một hộ gia đình đang tìm kiếm bạn cùng nhà mới (hoặc bạn muốn quảng cáo phòng trống trong nhà), các trang web như flatmates.com.au và Flatmate Finders có thể lhữu ích.

Khi nói tới chủ đề tìm bạn cùng nhà phù hợp cho chỗ ở, bạn có thể sẽ muốn hỏi họ một số câu sau:

Thông thường, bao lâu bạn dọn dẹp nhà cửa một lần?
Trước đây bạn có từng gặp khó khăn trả tiền thuê nhà không?
Bạn thích làm gì vào cuối tuần và buổi tối?
Bạn có thích nấu ăn không? Bạn có thú cưng không?
Bạn dự định ở lại đây bao lâu?

Nếu bạn đang nộp đơn đăng ký sống ở một phòng trong một hộ gia đình hiện tại, họ có thể hỏi bạn những câu tương tự, vì vậy bạn nên nghĩ trước về câu trả lời.

Kể cả khi vào ở chung nhà có sẵn, hãy chắc rằng bạn có tên trong hợp đồng thuê nhà để bảo vệ bạn và khoản tiền đặt cọc của bạn khi rời khỏi nhà. Không đưa tiền đặt cọc cho bạn cùng nhà.

Điền đơn đăng ký thuê nhà như thế nào?

Đại lý môi giới nhà đất quảng cáo và quản lý nhà đất mà bạn nộp đơn tới sẽ cho bạn biết những điều cần làm.

Điều này sẽ bao gồm việc hoàn thành mẫu đơn đăng ký. Thông tin bạn cần cung cấp có thể bao gồm bản sao giấy tờ tùy thân, thông tin về lịch sử thuê nhà và một số bằng chứng cho thấy bạn có khả năng trả tiền thuê nhà, chẳng hạn như hợp đồng lao động hoặc bảng lương.

Thị trường thuê nhà có thể có tính cạnh tranh, đặc biệt là ở các thành phố lớn, vì vậy bạn nên tiếp tục kiểm tra danh sách nhà đất còn trống và nộp đơn đăng ký chỗ ở ưa thích càng nhanh càng tốt. Bạn cũng nên nêu lý do tại sao bạn muốn ở nhà đất cụ thể này và tại sao bạn là người thuê phù hợp.

Quyền và nghĩa vụ của bạn

Bạn có quyền hợp pháp được cảm thấy an toàn tại nhà và sống trong chỗ ở có điện nước đầy đủ. Nhưng bạn cũng cần phải trả tiền thuê nhà đúng hạn và giữ gìn tài sản sạch sẽ, tránh bị hư hại.

Đại lý môi giới nhà đất (quản lý nhà đất) hoặc chủ nhà (chủ sở hữu nhà đất) sẽ sắp xếp kiểm tra nhà đất 3-6 tháng một lần. Về mặt pháp lý, họ phải thông báo cho bạn ít nhất bảy ngày trước khi vào nhà bạn.

Tìm hiểu thêm về các quyền của bạn trong bài đăng trên blog "Chỗ ở: hiểu rõ các quyền".

Ngoài ra, cũng có một loạt các nguồn trợ giúp và dịch vụ hỗ trợ sinh viên quốc tế có sẵn ở bang hoặc lãnh thổ của bạn: