Short Stay Acommodation

Many students require short-stay accommodation for a variety of reasons, including:

  • Arriving from interstate or overseas before securing long-term housing

  • Attending on-campus residentials or intensives

  • Completing short placements

  • Temporary accommodation between leases

The SCU Accommodation Service has compiled a list of external short-stay options including:

  • Motels

  • Bed & breakfasts

  • Hostels

  • Private share housing

  • Student accommodation

⚠️ Important:
The accommodation listed below has not been endorsed by Southern Cross University. Students must contact providers directly to arrange bookings.

⚠️ Pricing Notice:
Rates listed are indicative only and may change. Always check the accommodation website for the most up-to-date pricing before booking.
Some providers may offer SCU student discounts, so mention that you are an SCU student when enquiring.

Browse by Location

  • Gold Coast

  • Lismore

  • Coffs Harbour

  • Brisbane

You can also search:

👉 UniStays Short Stay Listings
👉 Other Short Stay Accommodation Websites (see below)

Important Things to Know About Short-Term Accommodation

Before booking short stay accommodation, keep the following in mind:

✔ A tenancy agreement is not always required, but having a written agreement is recommended
✔ Always keep receipts for any money paid
✔ A bond may or may not be charged — request a receipt if one is required
✔ Do not pay money or commit until you have viewed the property (in person or via verified inspection)
✔ Provide reasonable written notice when leaving (e.g., 7 days if paying weekly rent)
✔ Keep copies of all communication

Gold Coast Short Stay Options

Coolangatta YHA — Dorm and private rooms available, short walk to Gold Coast campus and airport. Check website for current rates.

Bilavista Apartments — 1 and 2-bedroom apartments across from campus. Ask about SCU student discounts.

Greenmount Beach House — 100m from the beach with pool and balcony/courtyard. Rates vary; check website.

Coolangatta Sands Hotel — Affordable rooms including dorms and private options. Check website for current rates.

Lismore Short Stay Options

UniLodge Lismore — Fully furnished apartments with utilities included and onsite support. Check website for current rates.

Melville House Bed & Breakfast — Single and twin rooms available. Rates vary; check website.

New Olympic Motel — Free Wi-Fi, garden views, and BBQ facilities. Rates vary; check website.

Coffs Harbour Short Stay Options

Hoey Moey Backpackers — Beachfront dorm and private rooms. Check website for current rates.

Aussitel Backpackers — Dorm and private rooms, including female-only dorms. Rates vary; check website.

Aquajet Motel — Shared and private rooms; mention SCU student for discount. Check website for current rates.

UniLodge Coffs Harbour — Fully furnished apartments with recreation areas. Check website for current rates.

Brisbane Short Stay Options

UniLodge Herston — Affordable student accommodation near Brisbane CBD. Check website for current rates.

Nomads Brisbane Hostel — Dorm and private rooms available. Rates vary; check website.

Brisbane City YHA — Award-winning accommodation overlooking the river and CBD. Check website for current rates.

UniStays Short Stay Listings

Some UniStays providers may be willing to negotiate short stay arrangements or advertise short stays only:

⚠️ Students and accommodation providers negotiate their own arrangements. Read UniStays terms and conditions for details.

Other Short Stay Accommodation Websites

Helpful Tips

Students often have more success when they:

✔ Book early during peak periods
✔ Check multiple platforms
✔ Consider nearby suburbs
✔ Share accommodation with another student
✔ Contact providers directly to ask about short stays