BD Student Assistance – Accommodation & Arrival Guide

Finding Student Accommodation in Brisbane

Finding suitable and affordable accommodation can be challenging for international students, especially in the current Brisbane rental market. To support new Bangladeshi students arriving in Brisbane, we have compiled helpful guidance and a list of useful resources.

Plan Early

Due to the ongoing rental crisis in Brisbane, we strongly recommend:

  • Planning ahead and contacting accommodation providers before travelling to Australia.
  • Preparing an additional budget above the usual rental rates, as prices may vary due to current economic conditions.
  • Joining your university’s Bangladeshi student community on Facebook (UQBDA, QUTBA, GUBA, etc.) to seek short-term accommodation (2–4 weeks) upon arrival.
  • Considering shared or temporary accommodation during your initial settlement period.

Accommodation Providers in Brisbane

Below are some known providers and locations close to major universities. Please visit their websites or contact them directly to check availability and pricing.

South Brisbane Area (Near Griffith South Bank, QUT Gardens Point, TAFE)

  1. UniLodge – www.unilodge.com.au
  2. Scape Merivale – www.scape.com.au/brisbane/scape-merivale
  3. Scape Tribune – https://www.scape.com.au/brisbane/scape-tribune/
  4. Scape Southbank – https://www.scape.com.au/brisbane/scape-south-bank/ 

Nathan / Robertson Area (Near Griffith University Nathan Campus)

  1. Unnacom – https://unaccom.info

Kelvin Grove Area (Near QUT Kelvin Grove Campus)

  1. UniLodge – www.unilodge.com.au
  2. Iglu – https://iglu.com.au/properties/brisbane/brisbane-city/
  3. City Groves – http://www.citygroves.com
  4. Brisbane Student Apartments – https://www.brisbanestudentapartments.com.au

Additional Accommodation Platforms

  1. Flatmates – https://flatmates.com.au/
  2. YHA Brisbane – https://www.yha.com.au/hostels/
  3. University Living – https://www.universityliving.com/australia/city/brisbane

General Rental Websites

  1. https://www.realestate.com.au/
  2. https://www.domain.com.au/
  3. https://www.rent.com.au/
  4. https://www.tenantapp.com.au/Rentals
  5. https://www.stayz.com.au/

Essential Steps After Arrival

Once you arrive in Australia, complete the following documents as soon as possible—these are often required for rental applications (100-point ID check):

  1. Student ID card
  2. Australian bank account
  3. Medicare / OSHC health cover
  4. Tax File Number (TFN)
  5. Local SIM card
  6. Any form of supporting identity documents

You may also consider living slightly further from your university (within 1 hour by public transport) if your budget is limited.

Building a rental history by staying 6–12 months in one place will help you secure better accommodation in the future.

Important Note

This information is provided as general guidance only. Students should conduct their own checks, inspect properties, and verify rental terms before committing to any accommodation.

Before Coming to Australia – Skills You Should Prepare

Many students ask:
“What should I do before coming to Australia? And how do I start once I arrive?”

Visa approval is just the beginning—the real journey starts after that. Based on personal experience, here are 10 essential skills that will help you settle confidently:

  1. Learn driving & get a licence
  2. Be comfortable using a computer or laptop
  3. Improve your English communication skills (not just IELTS)
  4. Learn basic local culture
  5. Learn to cook for yourself
  6. Know simple electronic/mobile troubleshooting
  7. Develop Google search habits—your biggest helper abroad
  8. Improve communication skills
  9. Learn how to present yourself (presentations, interviews, workplace communication)
  10. Prepare for hard work—success abroad requires consistent effort

Final note:
A visa is just a document. Your value, skills and mindset determine your success.

Bangladeshi Student Groups (Facebook)

  1. UQBDA: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569617740907
  2. QUTBA: https://www.facebook.com/qutbapage
  3. GUBA: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571311756214
  4. GUBA – Gold Coast: https://www.facebook.com/gubagc

BAB Community Forum

The BAB Community Forum is available for posting any type of assistance request, including accommodation needs, job leads, or general student support.