Private or off-campus living
Starting your search
Searching for accommodation off-campus can be time consuming and confusing. Your choice may depend on a number of factors:
- How close to the University do you want to be?
- Do you want to live on your own or with other people?
- How much rent are you able to pay?
- Do you need to be near public transport?
- Do you want to be near any particular facilities, i.e. supermarket, leisure centre?
- Do you want to be close to the city or in a quiet residential suburb?
There are many off-campus accommodation options. The most popular ones are house-sharing and renting a property through an estate agent.
Note: We highly recommend that you do not sign any lease agreement/contract for a property you have not yet seen. It is important that you inspect the property when you arrive unless you have a friend or relative here in Melbourne who is able to inspect the property for you. Our staff are not able to inspect or book properties on your behalf, however, once you are here, we can assist you every step of the way on how to use the public transport system, apply for accommodation and how to inspect properties.
It is extremely important that you do not forward any money or bank account details to any accommodation provider until you have had a chance to inspect the property to make sure that it fits with your requirements.
Applying
New students who do not wish to live on-campus should look for off-campus accommodation as soon as you have accepted a place at La Trobe.
It is recommended that students first inspect private off campus accommodation to determine its suitability.
Returning students seeking on-campus accommodation should contact us to discuss your options. You should apply in October. You can search the accommodation database for off-campus options that match your required move-in date.
You may need to consider temporary accommodation (i.e. hostel, bed and breakfast) while you look for something permanent. Finding the right place to live can take time - we recommend allowing at least three weeks.
House-sharing
Sharing a rented house or flat with other people is generally the most economical, flexible and popular form of student housing. Some students choose to move into an existing shared-house, while others will organise a group to establish a new one.
Usually, each person has their own bedroom. In most cases you will be expected to provide your own bedroom furniture. The bathroom, kitchen and living room are for everyone to share and maintain.
Each resident contributes to the cost of household goods, the security bond and gas, electricity and telephone charges. When establishing a new shared-house you will also need to pay for the connection of utilities. The rent is shared either evenly between housemates, or may be divided up depending on the room (e.g. very large rooms or rooms with en-suites may attract a higher rent).
Renting
Renting a house can be more expensive and prices vary according to size and location. You will also need to consider the cost of furnishings and white-goods if you rent an unfurnished property.
Furnished properties are sometimes available to rent but they are often significantly more expensive. However they are often a good choice for short-term students (6 months or less) as they don't have the additional costs associated with renting unfurnished properties, i.e. providing furniture.
Finding rental accommodation can be time consuming. You will need to inspect properties, submit application forms and understand your legal rights and responsibilities.
Remember that a lease is a binding legal document. It could be expensive for you if you later change your mind and wish to break the lease.
Alternative Options
The following accommodation suppliers are not affiliated with La Trobe University. They are listed here for their proximity to campus only. Accommodation is listed in order of its proximity to the Bundoora campus - distances are approximate.
Parkside Inn Motel
(situated within one kilometer of campus)
A privately run motel situated on Plenty Road, minutes from the Bundoora campus. Parkside Inn Motel offers standard, twin or three bedroom, 3.5 star rated accommodation. This motel is convenient for students who have just arrived and are searching for permanent accommodation.
Greensborough Motor Inn
(situated within five kilometers of campus)
A privately run motel located on the corner of Torbay Street and Greensborough Highway near the Yallambie turn off. Greensborough Motor Inn is a short drive, approximately five minutes from the La Trobe Bundoora campus, and about twenty minutes from Melbourne International Airport.
Comprising of fifteen standard units, two twin units, a family unit and five spa units. Facilities include breakfast in room or dining room, queen size beds, TV, Foxtel, refrigerator and air conditioning. All units are self contained with bathroom en suite.
Le Student 8
(Situated within ten kilometers of campus)
A privately run initiative, located in the suburb of Preston, Le Student 8 offers accommodation with all modern conveniences provided. About half an hour travel to campus by public transport.
NOTE: The provision of this information does not constitute an endorsement by La Trobe University of the merits of the housing provider. The University is simply providing you with information that may assist you in your accommodation search.