Guide for Students - Student Safety Accommodation Tip Sheet

Student Accommodation Safety Tip Sheet

For Domestic and International Students

Before You Move In

  •  Inspect the property before paying any money (in person or via live video).
  •  Confirm the address is legitimate and matches the listing.
  •  Meet housemates where possible and ensure you feel comfortable.
  •  Clarify your agreement type (lease, sublet, or boarding) and request this in writing.
  • Costs and Payments
  • Confirm rent, bond (typically 4 weeks), and included bills.
  • Always obtain receipts or proof of payment.
  • Ensure bond is lodged with the appropriate authority.
  • Be cautious of cash-only payments or pressure to pay quickly.

Property Safety

  • Check locks on doors and windows are functional.
  • Ensure smoke alarms are installed and working.
  • Assess for overcrowding, lack of privacy, or unsafe conditions.
  • Personal Safety and Respect

All students have the right to feel safe in their accommodation.

Be aware of:

  • Unwanted attention, harassment, or intimidation
  • Pressure to share rooms or compromise privacy
  • Monitoring or control of your movements, visitors, or finances
  • Aggressive, threatening, or controlling behaviour
  • Power imbalances (e.g. head tenant or landlord control) can increase risk.
  • If a situation feels unsafe, take it seriously.

Warning Signs

  • No written agreement is provided
  • You cannot properly inspect the property
  • Requests for informal or undocumented payments
  • Key details change unexpectedly
  • You feel pressured, unsafe, or unable to ask questions

Your Rights

You are entitled to:

  • A safe and secure living environment
  • Privacy and reasonable notice before entry
  • Clear and transparent agreement terms

Note: Rights may vary depending on your agreement, but protections may still apply.

Shared Living Expectations

Before moving in, clarify:

  • Rent and bill arrangements
  • Cleaning responsibilities
  • Guest policies and shared space expectations
  • Noise and quiet hours

If You Need Help or Feel Unsafe

  • Remove yourself from unsafe situations where possible
  • Contact someone you trust or your university support services
  • Seek advice from a tenancy or support service

Support Services (Australia)

  • Emergency Services: 000
  • 1800RESPECT
  • 1800 737 732 (24/7)
  • Lifeline
  • 13 11 14 (24/7)
  • Ask Izzy
  • Visit askizzy.org.au to find local housing, food, financial, and support services
  • Link2home
  • 1800 152 152 (24/7 housing assistance)

Final Advice

Take time to ask questions, verify information, and assess your safety before committing. Avoid

rushed decisions.

All students are entitled to safe, secure, and respectful accommodation.

See also:

Guide for Students – Using UniStays

Info for Students - Before you Start Searching

FAQs- Students (UniStays)

Rental Authorities:

QLD: RTA - Rental Tenancies Authority

NSW: NSW Dept of Fair Trading