Below is a brief introduction to the accommodation aspect of living in Western Australia. More detailed information covering more aspects such as shopping, transport and entertainment can be found in our 'Everday Living in WA, a Guide for International Students' booklets. Please contact CISWA to obtain a copy.

ACCOMMODATION

All universities and many colleges and schools offer residential accommodation on campus, as well as providing a Housing Service to assist students in locating comfortable, affordable, off-campus accommodation. The various types of housing available are listed below. Cost will vary according to facilities and services provided and location.

On-Campus accommodation ranges from shared units with communal cooking facilities and living areas without meals or cleaning provided, to residences providing full meals, cleaning etc. Costs vary from, depending on the level of service and accommodation provided.

‘Homestay’ consists of living with a private family or person, more or less as a member of the family, normally with your own bedroom, but sharing other facilities in the house. Some families will provide Australian style food only, but others will vary the menu. Full Board in private homes (meals included) costs between approximately $190 & $270. Please note that special conditions apply for students under 18 years old

Private Hostel accommodation for men and women is available at the following places; please go to the following web sites for further information.
Jewell House www.ymcajewelhouse.com.au
Beatty Lodge www.beattylodge.com.au
Ocean View Lodge Email: oceanview.lodge@bigpond.au
Townsend Lodge www.townsend.wa.eda.au
YHA 300 Wellington St Perth perthcity@yhawa.com.au

Renting Apartments, Units, Flats and Houses - If you decide to rent a house or apartment alone or move into a share house, it is important that you are aware of your rights and responsibilities to avoid having problems which may cost you money. Legal Considerations in Western Australia, the law that sets out the rights and responsibilities of tenants and owners is called the Residential Tenancies Act 1987. It sets out what you and the owner are allowed and not allowed to do. This law covers people who live in private rental accommodation but does not cover those who live in educational institutions, boarding and lodging houses, home-stays or private hostels. Living in share-house accommodation can create complex legal situations. Make sure you understand them. If you do not, get help and advice.