Many international students are still searching for accommodation just days before flying to Australia. With limited housing availability before each semester, some students feel pressured to secure a room as quickly as possible. While it may be tempting to transfer a deposit for a room advertised online, rushing into a booking without proper checks can increase the risk of rental scams. In many cases, arranging temporary accommodation for the first few days is a safer option while continuing the search after arrival.
What This Case Covers
This case is about:
-
- A student not securing long-term accommodation before flying to Australia.
-
Feeling pressured to book accommodation quickly before departure.
-
The risk of rental scams when transferring deposits from overseas.
-
Using temporary accommodation while safely searching for long-term housing after arrival.
💡 Why this situation matters:
Many international students are still searching for accommodation just days before departure, especially before major university intakes when demand is high. Feeling rushed can lead students to transfer money without properly verifying the property or provider, increasing the risk of rental scams. If suitable long-term accommodation is not available, booking temporary accommodation for the first few days is often a safer option while continuing the search after arriving in Australia.
What happened?
Student Situation 1
A few weeks before flying to Australia, the student decided not to arrange accommodation through their education agent because they wanted more flexibility in choosing where and who to live with.
They joined several Facebook groups for international students and quickly found a share house that looked perfect. The room was close to campus, affordable, and the “housemate” responded quickly to every message.
To reserve the room, the student was asked to transfer the bond and the first week’s rent before arriving in Australia.
Everything seemed genuine.
However, after landing in Australia, the student could no longer contact the person. Messages were ignored, the phone number stopped working, and when the student and their parents visited the address, they discovered the room had never been available.
The student lost their money and had nowhere to stay on their first night in Australia.
Student Situation 2
Another student was also preparing to fly but had not found suitable long-term accommodation before departure.
Most university accommodation was already fully booked, and the remaining rental options did not match their budget or preferred location.
Instead of rushing into an online booking, they discussed the situation with their education agent.
The agent recommended booking temporary accommodation such as a hotel or Airbnb for the first few days while continuing the accommodation search after arrival.
Once in Australia, the student inspected several properties, compared suburbs and transport options, met potential housemates, and eventually signed a lease for a share house that suited both their budget and lifestyle.
Although temporary accommodation involved a small additional cost, the student avoided rental scams and made a much more confident long-term accommodation decision.
Study Australia recommends arranging accommodation before arrival whenever possible and considering temporary accommodation while searching for long-term housing. Consumer protection agencies, including NSW Fair Trading, also advise renters not to transfer money before verifying a property and to remain cautious of rental scams, particularly when responding to online listings.
Why Students Can Be Vulnerable Before Departure
The main problem is:
Many students feel under pressure to secure accommodation before arriving in Australia, especially when their departure date is approaching.
Common challenges include:
- Feeling rushed to book accommodation before flying.
-
Transferring a bond or rent for a property that has only been advertised online.
-
Signing agreements without inspecting the property or confirming the accommodation is genuine.
-
Having fewer accommodation choices and higher rental prices when searching at the last minute.
-
Arriving in Australia without confirmed accommodation, creating unnecessary stress during the first few days.
Plan Your Accommodation Before Departure
Important notes
- This case study provides general guidance only.
- Accommodation availability varies by city, university and time of year.
- Never rely solely on photos or messages when renting from overseas.
- Read lease agreements and payment conditions carefully before transferring money.
- If an offer seems unusually cheap or requires urgent payment, verify it carefully before proceeding.
Recommended Accommodation Providers Service
Study Australia – Accommodation Guide |
Official accommodation guidance for international students, including accommodation options and safety advice before booking. |  |
 Google maps |
Check property locations, nearby transport, supermarkets and travel time to your campus before making a booking. | |
|
||
NSW Fair Tranding -Rental Scams
How can Annalink Care help you?
AnnalinkCare can help you:
- Access 24/7 student support
- Submit a support ticket for assistance
- Understand available support options and next steps
- Connect with relevant providers, partners, or official services where appropriate
- Access practical resources and support tools throughout your journey
