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Home > Life > Accommodation

Accommodation in Adelaide

There are a range of student-friendly housing options in Adelaide, including fully serviced and self-managed accommodation.

With most university and institution campuses located in the CBD, you’ll find it easy to get to classes by walking, riding your bike or catching the free inner-city tram or bus.

There are also plenty of options available if your campus is located out of the city, or if you want to live in the suburbs. Adelaide's public transport covers all of metropolitan Adelaide, so there is always a bus, train or tram for you to take.

Help finding accommodation

If you are coming to Adelaide for the first time, each of the public universities in Adelaide have dedicated student accommodation services that can help you find accommodation. The services they offer are free of charge.

Types of accommodation in Adelaide

There are five main types of accommodation options for international students.

Join Anshul, as he takes us through the different student accommodation options in Adelaide.


Residential colleges

Residential colleges offer a blend of convenience and community for students. Typically located on or near campus, they provide easy access to classes.

These buildings offer fully furnished rooms, community spaces like gyms, and often include services like room cleaning and meals. The shared sense of community is a distinctive aspect, fostering friendships and providing opportunities to meet new people.

Residential colleges may also offer unique perks such as tutoring or special activities.

Average price in Adelaide
AUD $500 - $600 per week


Residential college options

Student accommodation

Student accommodations are privately owned buildings designed with the needs of students in mind and are usually located centrally. 

Also known as purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), these are often fully furnished and located off-campus, providing a balance of independence and community living. 

The all-inclusive rent typically covers bills and may include additional amenities like gyms or common areas for socialising.

Average price in Adelaide
AUD $300 - $600 per week


Student accommodation options

Student Accommodation Association

When you are looking for accommodation, you can ask whether the provider is a member of the Student Accommodation Association.

They are a national organisation that promotes the value of quality accommodation that is provided for the exclusive use of students.

SAA administer the National Property Accreditation Scheme (NPAS), which accredits student properties that have met a minimum set of industry standards.

Find out more

Renting a room

Renting a room in a shared house or apartment offers a blend of independence and community living.

It provides the opportunity to live with fellow students or locals, allowing for social interactions and shared responsibilities.

Renting a room is often a more budget-friendly option, with shared expenses for utilities and common areas. It's an excellent choice for those who seek a sense of community without the structured environment of a residential college or student accommodation.

Flatmates is a peer to peer platform to find share accommodation. 

There are also Facebook groups to help find share accommodation in Adelaide as well.

Average price in Adelaide
AUD $150 - $300 per week


Find a rental room

Renting an entire place

For those who prefer complete independence, renting an entire apartment or house might be the right choice.

This option allows for total control over your living space and lifestyle. It provides privacy and the ability to choose the location based on personal preferences or proximity to campus.

Renting an entire place requires more responsibility in terms of handling bills and maintenance, but for some, it is worth it for the freedom.

It is also important to note that a rental bond, typically amounting to a few weeks' rent, may be required as a security deposit.

It is important that you understand your rights and responsibilities as a tenant. 

The Government of South Australia has published some helpful information about renting privately in Adelaide.

You can find rental properties in Adelaide on Domain or realestate.com.au.

Average price in Adelaide
AUD $400 - $600 per week


Homestay

A homestay offers students the chance to live with a local family, providing cultural immersion, language practice and included meals, all within a safe, vetted environment.

This cost-effective option can be arranged independently or through an agent.

The Australian Homestay Network is an agency that can help you find a homestay, and have partnered with many education institutions in Adelaide.

Average price in Adelaide
AUD $250 - $510 per week


Find a homestay

Your accommodation rights

Whether you choose to live in on-campus housing, off-campus rentals, homestays or purpose-built student accommodation, it's crucial to understand your rights as an international student tenant in Adelaide.

  • Privacy: As a tenant, you have the right to privacy. Your landlord or property manager must provide notice before entering your property, except in emergencies.
  • Habitable environment: You have the right to live in a property that is safe, clean, and in good repair. This includes functioning utilities, proper sanitation and reasonable security.
  • Repairs and maintenance: Your landlord is responsible for ensuring the property is maintained and any necessary repairs are made promptly.
  • Bond return: At the end of your lease, you have the right to have your bond (security deposit) returned, provided you've met the terms of your lease, such as leaving the property clean and undamaged.
  • Notice and eviction: If your landlord wants to end your lease, they must give you written notice. The amount of notice depends on the reason for ending the lease. A landlord cannot forcibly evict you without a court or tribunal order.
  • Dispute resolution: If you have a dispute with your landlord, you have the right to seek resolution through the appropriate channels, including the South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.
  • Anti-discrimination: It's against the law for a landlord or property manager to discriminate against you based on factors such as race, gender, religion or disability.
  • Contractual rights: You have the right to a written lease agreement, outlining the terms and conditions of your tenancy. This contract should be fair and transparent.

You can learn more about your rights on the South Australian Government website and Rent Right SA.

Remember, while you have these rights as a tenant, you also have responsibilities, including paying rent on time, keeping the property clean and reporting any damages promptly. Understanding your rights and responsibilities can help ensure a positive rental experience during your time studying in Adelaide.


Whether you choose to live in on-campus housing, off-campus rentals, homestays or purpose-built student accommodation, it's crucial to understand your rights as an international student tenant in Adelaide.

  • Privacy: As a tenant, you have the right to privacy. Your landlord or property manager must provide notice before entering your property, except in emergencies.
  • Habitable environment: You have the right to live in a property that is safe, clean, and in good repair. This includes functioning utilities, proper sanitation and reasonable security.
  • Repairs and maintenance: Your landlord is responsible for ensuring the property is maintained and any necessary repairs are made promptly.
  • Bond return: At the end of your lease, you have the right to have your bond (security deposit) returned, provided you've met the terms of your lease, such as leaving the property clean and undamaged.
  • Notice and eviction: If your landlord wants to end your lease, they must give you written notice. The amount of notice depends on the reason for ending the lease. A landlord cannot forcibly evict you without a court or tribunal order.
  • Dispute resolution: If you have a dispute with your landlord, you have the right to seek resolution through the appropriate channels, including the South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.
  • Anti-discrimination: It's against the law for a landlord or property manager to discriminate against you based on factors such as race, gender, religion or disability.
  • Contractual rights: You have the right to a written lease agreement, outlining the terms and conditions of your tenancy. This contract should be fair and transparent.

You can learn more about your rights on the South Australian Government website and Rent Right SA.

Remember, while you have these rights as a tenant, you also have responsibilities, including paying rent on time, keeping the property clean and reporting any damages promptly. Understanding your rights and responsibilities can help ensure a positive rental experience during your time studying in Adelaide.


Tips to find accommodation in Adelaide

  • Start early: Begin your search for accommodation as soon as you receive your admission letter. The sooner you start, the more options you'll have, and the less stressful the process will be.
  • Budget wisely: Consider all costs involved, not just the rent. This includes utilities, internet, transportation and meals.
  • Understand your lease: If you're renting, make sure to read and understand your lease agreement before signing. It's important to know your rights and responsibilities as a tenant. If something is unclear, don't hesitate to ask for clarification.
  • Inspect before you commit: Ensure that you inspect the property before making any commitments. Check for the overall condition of the place, safety features, and if possible, talk to current tenants about their experience.
  • Use reliable sources: Use reliable websites and agencies to search for accommodation. Be aware of potential scams, especially online.
  •  Seek assistance: Utilise the resources provided by your educational institution. Many universities have accommodation services that provide advice and assistance to students looking for housing.
  • Remember, your choice of accommodation is a key part of your larger Australian adventure, so make it count!
  • Start early: Begin your search for accommodation as soon as you receive your admission letter. The sooner you start, the more options you'll have, and the less stressful the process will be.
  • Budget wisely: Consider all costs involved, not just the rent. This includes utilities, internet, transportation and meals.
  • Understand your lease: If you're renting, make sure to read and understand your lease agreement before signing. It's important to know your rights and responsibilities as a tenant. If something is unclear, don't hesitate to ask for clarification.
  • Inspect before you commit: Ensure that you inspect the property before making any commitments. Check for the overall condition of the place, safety features, and if possible, talk to current tenants about their experience.
  • Use reliable sources: Use reliable websites and agencies to search for accommodation. Be aware of potential scams, especially online.
  •  Seek assistance: Utilise the resources provided by your educational institution. Many universities have accommodation services that provide advice and assistance to students looking for housing.
  • Remember, your choice of accommodation is a key part of your larger Australian adventure, so make it count!

Trouble with your accommodation

If you ever need assistance regarding private rentals or accommodation in Adelaide, you should first contact your institution. Here are some other contacts if you need help:

If you find yourself without accommodation, whether as an individual or a family, assistance is available through the South Australian Government. You can reach out to Homeless Connect SA by calling their helpline at 1800 003 308. They are equipped to provide support and resources to those in need of housing.

If you ever need assistance regarding private rentals or accommodation in Adelaide, you should first contact your institution. Here are some other contacts if you need help:

If you find yourself without accommodation, whether as an individual or a family, assistance is available through the South Australian Government. You can reach out to Homeless Connect SA by calling their helpline at 1800 003 308. They are equipped to provide support and resources to those in need of housing.

Common renting terms

These are some common terms related to renting accommodation in Australia. These terms may be different from the ones you use in your home country, so understanding them will be helpful.

The money you pay to live in a rental home.

Usually the equivalent of four week’s rent. Your landlord lodges this money with the Tenancies Branch. You’ll get it back at the end of your lease, as long as you’ve left the property in good order and paid all rent. Make sure you get a receipt for your bond payment.

The person renting the property (you).

The owner of the property, or the property manager hired by the owner to manage the rental arrangements.

The property being rented.

When you are forced to move out of the property.

A form you fill out at the start of your lease to note any existing damages already there when you moved in.

Your gas, electricity and water services.

Insurance you should consider taking out to cover your belongings from theft, fire and other damage.