Finding the Perfect Student Accommodation in Canberra, Australia
As the capital city of Australia, Canberra is home to several world-class universities, like the Australian National University (ANU) and the University of Canberra (UC) educational institutions. Over 75,000 students flock to Canberra yearly to pursue their higher education dreams across various undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
For students moving to study in Canberra, finding suitable student accommodation is an essential factor that shapes their overall university experience. This detailed guide provides an overview of the student living options available in Canberra and critical aspects to evaluate when choosing.
An Introduction to Being a Student in Canberra
Canberra provides a comfortable, relaxed lifestyle with plenty of green open spaces, attractions and a vibrant food scene. The city centre offers convenient access to amenities, entertainment, weekend markets and a buzzing nightlife. Canberra is well-connected via an efficient public transport system and allows easy commutes across its different town centres.
The diverse student community comes from all over Australia and abroad, with international students making up around 26% from countries like China, India, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Vietnam. Known for its low unemployment and abundance of part-time work opportunities, Canberra enables students to earn comfortably alongside their studies.
Types of Student Accommodations in Canberra
When beginning your student housing search in Canberra, consider these main accommodation options:
Purpose-Built Student Apartments
These are privately owned and managed modern apartment complexes designed for student living, generally located close to campuses. Studio, 2-4 bedroom apartments with ensuites, kitchens and amenities supporting independent lifestyles are available. Some leading providers in Canberra are UniLodge, Iglu Student Living, Urbanest and Nuchev.
Shared Student Housing
Renting a house with other students is a popular, affordable option, ranging from 2-bedroom units to 5-bedroom homes in suburbs surrounding ANU and UC campuses. Shared housing allows bonding with housemates over communal spaces while having private bedrooms.
University Managed On-Campus
Universities like ANU and UC have halls of residence and colleges on campus, offering single study rooms and shared common areas. Great for first-year undergraduates seeking a community environment.
Private Rental Properties
The private rental market offers flats, granny flats or 1-bedroom units for students wanting independent living. Affordable options are available in Canberra’s outer suburbs with good campus transit links.
Key Deciding Factors for Students
Here are some vital considerations for students when evaluating accommodation options in Canberra:
Location: Closeness to your university campus, commute time to the city centre, and public transport access.
Budget: Rental costs, utility bills, internet expenses and other hidden fees to evaluate affordability.
Lifestyle: Decide between private versus shared living. Assess community environment and private spaces.
Facilities: Availability of amenities like gyms, laundry, parking, study rooms, and outdoor areas. Also, consider the necessity of WiFi and speed.
Flexibility: Duration of contracts and how they align with semester dates. Review bond terms, exit clauses and lock-in periods.
Support – On-site staff, timely maintenance, pastoral care services, security features for safety.
Recommended Areas for Student Living in Canberra
Based on affordability, proximity to campuses, and lifestyle offerings, these are the top locations for students to reside in Canberra:
City Centre: Offers convenience but can be more expensive. Close to ANU and transports.
Braddon: Is a vibrant inner-city suburb with cafes, shops, and restaurants. Walk or cycle to ANU and Civic.
O’Connor: Leafy is an established suburb near ANU. More affordable housing options for students.
Belconnen: Has University of Canberra campus. Well-serviced for amenities and transport. Cheaper rents.
Gungahlin: Emerging town centre with easy bus links to UC and the city. Offers cheaper student share houses.
Best Student Accommodation in Canberra
Here are the top recommended purpose-built and managed student housing in Canberra.
1. UniLodge ANU
This modern facility on the ANU campus offers private studios with great amenities. These include a gym, lounge zones, and event spaces.
2. Iglu Franklin
Iglu Franklin provides stylish off-campus accommodation just a 10-minute bus ride from ANU. It has fully equipped studios with WiFi, kitchens, ensuites and study areas.
3. UC Lodge
UC Lodge is a well-reviewed on-campus residence run by the University of Canberra, housing 500 students. It offers single ensuite rooms with shared communal spaces.
4. Urban Nest
Urban Nest is conveniently located just 750m from the UC campus. It provides self-contained studios with lovely courtyards and BBQ areas for student bonding.
5. Nuchev Apartments
Nuchev Apartments is an independent provider offering contemporary 1-3 bedroom apartments in Belconnen suburbs like Bruce and Page, close to UC. Excellent facilities and community events are provided.
6. Canberra Student Accommodation
This budget short-stay provider is within walking distance of ANU and the city centre. It offers basic rooms with shared living spaces to keep costs affordable.
7. ANU campus- Margot College
Margot College on the ANU campus offers fully catered single rooms in a supportive residential community environment.
8. Australian National University- Fenner Hall
Fenner Hall is an ANU-run residence with single-study bedrooms, shared bathrooms and fully catered meal plans. Great on-campus location.
9. University of Canberra- Weeden Lodge
Weeden Lodge by UC provides partially catered accommodation in single ensuite rooms with learning commons and recreational areas.
10. Griffin Hall- ANU
One of ANU’s newest residences, it has apartments with single ensuites and shared kitchens in a vibrant community located on campus.
11. Canberra UniLodge
This facility in Belconnen near UC offers modern studios and apartments with great amenities like a gym, lounge, and study centre.
12. Gungahlin Student Living
Gungahlin Student Living has 4-5 bedroom shared houses available for rent in the suburbs of Franklin, Harrison and Gungahlin, located near UC.
13. Urbanest at ANU
Urbanest at ANU is stylishly designed off-campus living with studios and apartments located a 10-minute walk from campus. Fully equipped units with great amenities.
14. Your Space Canberra
Your Space Canberra offers short-term affordable shared units in Braddon and Turner, close to the ANU campus and city centre.
15. Davey’s Apartments
Davey’s provides affordable 1-bedroom units for students in the suburb of O’Connor, just 2km from ANU, with study rooms and parking.
16. Belconnen Student Accommodation
This provider offers affordable short-term shared units with single and twin rooms near UC and Lake Ginninderra with shared facilities.
17. ANU Bruce Hall
The original residence hall at ANU, Bruce Hall, offers fully catered accommodation in historic buildings filled with tradition and community spirit.
18. Canberra Student Houses
This service assists students in finding shared houses in the suburbs around ANU and UC, like Braddon, Florey, and Kaleen, by matching them to available rooms.
19. University of Canberra Apartments
UC-run apartments located on campus provide 2-5 bedroom self-catered units in a convenient location for new students.
20. Capital Student Living
Provider of shared student houses near ANU and UC campuses in suburbs like Turner, O’Connor, Lyneham and Braddon.
Summary
This comprehensive overview clarifies Canberra’s wide range of student living options so you can choose one aligned with your priorities and budget for a rewarding study experience. Connect with seniors or your university for advice on the best accommodations for your needs and lifestyle.
