Your Complete Guide to Finding a Place to Stay

Moving to Australia for study, work, or a new life experience is an exciting adventure—but one of the biggest challenges is finding the right place to stay before you land. With tight competition, limited inspection opportunities, and the risk of scams, securing accommodation remotely can feel overwhelming.

In this guide, we’ll explore the most common types of accommodation for newcomers to Australia, outline the pros and cons of each, and introduce Mobilife, a platform designed specifically to help international students and professionals find mid-term stays with confidence.

Why Finding Accommodation Early Matters

Securing housing before you arrive means less stress and a smoother start to your new chapter. But in Australia’s competitive rental market, early planning is crucial—especially in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane where vacancy rates are historically low.

1. Short-Term Stays (Hotels, Airbnb)

Overview:

Short-stay platforms offer furnished housing with flexible durations, popular for tourists or new arrivals still exploring the city.

Pros:

• Easy booking process
• Fully furnished and flexible
• No lease requirements

Cons:

• Extremely expensive over longer stays
• Lack of stability and personal living space customisation
• Inefficient for more than a few weeks duration

Best For:

Short visits or transition periods before finding proper housing.

2. University and Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)

Overview:

In Australia, students can choose between university-operated housing and private student accommodation providers. These purpose-built student accommodations (PBSA) are typically located near major universities and offer fully furnished rooms with communal facilities. Utilities, Wi-Fi, and sometimes meals or social programs are included.

Pros:

• Proximity to campus and city amenities
• Safe, secure, and professionally managed
• Strong student community and support services

Cons:

• Limited availability—booking early is essential
• Can be more expensive than private rentals or shared housing
• Often restricted to students only (not available for working professionals)

Best For:

Full-time students seeking convenience and community while studying in Australia.

3. Homestay Programs

Overview:

Homestay involves living with a local Australian family who hosts you in their home. Meals, utilities, and basic furnishings are usually included.

Pros:

• Great cultural immersion
• Often includes meals and support
• Lower commitment than standard leases

Cons:

• Limited privacy
• Less flexibility in location and rules
• Can feel restrictive for independent adults

Best For:

Younger students or those seeking cultural support and guidance during their first few weeks in Australia.

4. Long-Term Private Rentals

Overview:

Leasing an apartment or house independently through property platforms is common for those staying longer than 12 months.

Pros:

• Wide variety of locations and properties
• Full autonomy over your space

Cons:

• Requires lengthy application process (ID, employment, credit check)
• Often demands 12-month lease and bond
• Inspections required (hard to arrange from overseas)
• Competition with many applicants for same property

Best For:

Professionals or families with secure employment staying long-term.

5. Mobilife for Mid-Term Rent

Overview:

Mobilife is a rental marketplace helping international students and professionals find flexible, affordable accommodation for stays of 1 to 3 months. Unlike traditional rental platforms, Mobilife connects visitors with verified property partners open to mid-term bookings—without the hassle of long-term leases.

Pros:

• Much larger and private space at lower cost
• Avoid large bond transfer and 12-month lease hurdles
• Book before arrival without inspection
• Secure rent payment with credit card
• Transparent pricing and support

Cons:

• Limited to certain areas
• Does not suit those wanting longer term than 3 months

Best For:

International students and professionals needing a few months of stay with security and simplicity.

A Smart Path Forward

Securing accommodation before arriving in Australia doesn’t need to be stressful. By understanding your options and choosing the method that aligns with your stay duration, budget, and lifestyle, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother transition.

Mobilife is proud to support people who need affordable, flexible, and secure mid-term housing—helping you land with confidence, not confusion. Whether you’re waiting for your university accommodation, preparing for a corporate assignment, or just looking for a stable start, Mobilife helps you reduce cost and rigid lease requirements.