Independent accommodation (including shared house accommodation) is an option only open to students over the age of 18. Students will need to find their own property, however the School can provide assistance as required.

This option provides more independence, privacy and freedom than other forms of accommodation and costs approximately AUD$8,000 - $15,000 per year depending on where you live and how many people are sharing costs, plus four weeks rent for bond. Included in the rent is the cost of repairs only. The cost of independent rental does not include meals and other living expenses such as electricity, gas, internet, telephone or water usage. Students must do all the housework themselves, including buying food and preparing meals and general household duties such as keeping the house clean and doing the laundry.

Independent renters are required to sign a lease of at least six months (sometimes 12 months), pay a bond of four weeks’ rent, and provide references. Rental accommodation in Australia is often unfurnished or part-furnished, meaning students must also consider the expense of purchasing furniture. Fortunately, there are many second-hand furniture shops in Australia offering good furniture at reasonable prices.