Other accommodation options
Find suitable accommodation
We can provide information about homestay, private rentals and other accommodation options in Victoria. We also provide information and options for emergency or crisis accommodation and support.
The VU Housing Guide is a comprehensive guide to help you through the journey of finding and moving into accommodation.
On this page
Student Housing database
The VU Student Housing Database provides a list of shared housing and rental property vacancies for VU students. To obtain a password to access the database or for housing advice, please contact us.
Get independent advice so you understand your rights and responsibilities before you sign a lease and enter into a legally binding contract.
Finding private rental and student apartments
Use the VU Student Housing Database, contact a real estate agent in the suburb in which you want to live, or search online to find private rental accommodation.
You can also contact individual commercial student apartments and accommodation.
Before visiting a property, print out a copy of the Housing Guide. It contains a checklist that you can use to help you find what you need in a home, as well as other useful information, such as samples of rental and bond agreements.
Subsidised rental accommodation
You can also seek assistance from the Victorian Government Office of Housing which provides subsidised housing for eligible low-income Victorians who cannot access the private rental market.
Homestay accommodation
Homestay accommodation involves boarding with a family, couple or single person/s in their home. Living in a homestay arrangement provides an opportunity to live in a family environment without the need to manage a household. Choosing this option also eases the transition to University life.
Types of homestay
There are two types of homestay, 'rent only' and 'full board'. Both homestay options include shared access to common areas such as the kitchen, lounge/family room and bathroom.
- Rent only homestay: generally includes a furnished room and linen, as well as electricity, gas, water but excludes internet and telephone charges.
-
Full-board homestay: generally includes a furnished room, meals and as well as electricity, gas, water but excludes internet and telephone charges. Additional services such as laundry may also be included. You may also be asked to contribute to household duties but you are not expected to clean the whole house or provide childcare.
Cost of homestay
Costs of both homestays will vary from approximately $A145 to A$200 per person per week depending on whether your bedroom is single or shared, the type of accommodation (house / unit) and the location. The host must charge less for a shared room than a private room and cannot put additional people in your room without your consent.
It is always a good idea to discuss and agree in writing on living arrangements prior to moving into a home.
Dealing with issues during your homestay
If you have any concerns or issues with your homestay try to raise them early, as the longer a problem is left the more difficult it becomes to resolve! If you find it difficult to speak directly with the homestay host contact the homestay agent or the VU housing officer on 9919 8661. The Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria (DSCV) also provides a mediation service to help you resolve the issue.
Homestay agents
Homestay agents charge a placement fee of $A88-$A150 for arranging the placement. There are several organisations that can arrange the placement.
- Australian Homestay Network
Phone: 1300 697 829
Web: www.homestaynetwork.org - Homestay Victoria
Phone: + 61 3 9974 1078
E-mail: homestay@homestay-australia.com
Web: www.homestay-australia.com - Familystay Australia
Phone: + 61 3 9574 7473
E-mail: familystay@bigpond.com.au
Web: www.familystayaustralia.com - Student Accommodation Services
Phone: + 61 3 9486 1916
E-mail: saccomm@bigpond.net.au
Web: www.student-accommodation.com.au
Hotels and motels
Hotels and motels may be a suitable alternative for short-term accommodation. The Victorian Tourism Information Service should be able to provide information on hotels and in Melbourne.
Emergency or crisis accommodation and support
If you are experiencing hardship in your current accommodation due to tenancy issues, financial or other hardship, contact us for information, assistance or referral to community support services.
If you are in urgent need of emergency accommodation contact the Crisis Help Network: Melbourne Homeless Services.
International students can also obtain support and information on accommodation and providers, legal or health issues and social isolation by contacting International Student Care Service.
International Student Care Service
Level 1, 19-21 Argyle Place
South Carlton 3053
Free call*: 1800 056449 (*except from mobiles)
Contact us
We provide independent, confidential advice on a range of housing issues.
ASKVU Find answers and ask questions
Phone +61 3 9919 8801, 9919 4418 or 9919 2399
Email housing@vu.edu.au
Disclaimer: The Homestay agents, hotels and motels referred to on this site are not owned or operated by VU, and VU does not endorse any of these providers. The contact details are provided for students' convenience only. Any arrangements, financial or otherwise, are strictly between the student and the provider.