Local apartments and studios

Deciding where to live is a big decision, so before you dive right in, think about:  

• Location (proximity to campus, food outlets, shopping centres, public transport etc.)  
• The cost of rent
• Additional expenses (transportation, parking, property maintenance costs etc.)  
• Parking availability if you have a vehicle  
• Security  
• Building or local amenities  

There are lots of options on the Gold Coast, so you’re bound to find the right fit that checks all your boxes.  

When you’re ready to move into off-campus accommodation, it is important to understand how everything works, from inspections all the way to signing on the dotted line.  

Begin the process of renting by firming up who you will be living with, selecting your suburb range and clearly defining a budget. Find some places that you like using online tools, and organise inspections with a real estate agent or attend scheduled inspections. If you like the residence, you can make an application, likely online, but some companies still use paper forms. You will need to provide your personal information and the information of any others on the lease, as well as pay slips and proof of earnings. You may also be required to provide rental references – you might like to use trusted colleagues, past rental agents, or close friends for this purpose.  

If your application is successful, you will receive a lease to sign and a move-in date from the renting agent. You will be required to pay a rental bond of between two and four weeks’ rent, which is used as financial protection for the lessor in case of damage or a breach of your rental agreement. This is returned to you when you move out unless the lessor needs to use it to cover the results of a breach. The RTA has more information on rental bonds here. 

The cost of living off campus will vary based on your location, the extras that are / aren’t included in your lease (e.g., water usage, electricity), and lifestyle factors, including how much you spend on groceries, hobbies, entertainment and so on. The Gold Coast is one of Australia’s most affordable city for students, so although your cost of living is variable and dependent on your own lifestyle and choices, it’s easy to live here on a student budget, and enjoy yourself at the same time!   

Your best point of contact as a renter is always the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA), Queensland’s state government statutory body which provides tenancy information and support.