Monash University (Clayton Campus) Student Accommodation Guide

Get settled in Clayton VIC before your September 2026 intake at Monash University (Clayton Campus). Browse student rooms, private apartments and PBSA on FindUniRooms.

Clayton VIC
2 views
Updated Apr 30, 2026
4.3 (1,280) Google

Overview

Monash University’s Clayton Campus is the university’s largest and flagship campus, located 20km southeast of the Melbourne CBD. Home to eight out of the university’s ten faculties, Clayton is a massive, self-contained academic city with its own post office, banks, medical clinics, and a major public transport interchange.

Choosing accommodation at Clayton involves balancing the convenience of living on campus with the vibrant suburban lifestyle of Melbourne’s southeastern suburbs. Whether you prefer a high-energy shared house or a quiet, professional on-campus hall, Clayton’s diverse rental market has options for every student.

For Monash Clayton students, the primary accommodation choices include:

  • Monash Residential Services (MRS) on-campus halls and apartments.
  • Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) in Clayton and nearby Notting Hill.
  • Private share houses in Clayton, Oakleigh, and Carnegie.
  • Modern apartments in the urban hubs of Glen Waverley and Mulgrave.
  • Homestay for international students arriving for the first time.

Living in Clayton or Notting Hill is the preferred choice for most students, as it allows for a short walk or cycle to campus and provides immediate access to all university facilities.

Quick Comparison: Accommodation Options

Accommodation type Best for Typical weekly cost Key points
On-Campus (MRS) First-years seeking community A$340 - A$450 Zero commute; all utilities included; social events
Private Share House Budget-conscious students A$200 - A$350 Most common local option; bills extra
PBSA Shared Apartment Students wanting modern facilities A$300 - A$450 All-inclusive bills; located near campus or CBD
PBSA Studio Maximum privacy and independence A$450 - A$600+ Luxury amenities; high-security living
Private Apartment (1-bed) Professionals or couples A$450 - A$600 Full independence; higher setup and bond costs

Note: The Clayton rental market is highly competitive. Students are encouraged to secure their housing at least 8-10 weeks before the semester begins.

Why On-Campus and PBSA Works Well for Monash Students

Monash Clayton offers a robust on-campus living experience through Monash Residential Services (MRS). Living on campus removes the stress of managing utility bills and navigating Melbourne’s suburban rental market.

Key benefits of on-campus and managed student living:

  • Walking Distance: MRS halls and nearby PBSA buildings like Belong@Clayton are literally on the campus doorstep or a 5-minute walk away.
  • All-Inclusive Budgeting: Your weekly rent typically covers high-speed Wi-Fi, electricity, water, and building maintenance.
  • Built-in Community: On-site study hubs, gyms, and hundreds of organized social events make it easy to build a support network quickly.
  • Academic Support: MRS often provides dedicated academic mentoring and quiet zones perfect for intensive study periods.
  • Safety: 24/7 on-site security and secure swipe-card access provide peace of mind.

Best Neighborhoods for Monash University Clayton Students

Area Distance to Campus Transport Mode Atmosphere
Clayton < 1 km Walk / Cycle Multicultural, convenient, and the ultimate student hub
Notting Hill < 1 km Walk / Cycle Modern, student-focused, and very close to campus
Oakleigh 3-4 km Bus / Train Famous for its Greek cafes, food, and village feel
Carnegie 6 km Train / Shuttle Trendy, famous for "Eat Street" and social life
Glen Waverley 5 km Bus / Drive Major retail and entertainment hub with modern apartments
Mulgrave 2-3 km Bus / Cycle Quiet residential area with affordable share houses

Pro Tip: If you live in Carnegie or near Huntingdale Station, you can take the 601 Express Bus which runs every 4 minutes during the semester and takes you directly to the campus bus loop.

Expected Monthly Budget

Monthly cost category Budget (Share House) Moderate (MRS/PBSA) Higher Comfort (Studio/Apt)
Accommodation A$1,100 A$1,650 A$2,400+
Food and groceries A$450 A$650 A$900
Public transport A$60 A$90 A$165
Social life and entertainment A$220 A$450 A$750
Mobile phone A$30 A$45 A$70

Most students at Clayton should budget between A$1,850 and A$4,300 per month, depending on their housing choice and lifestyle.

Booking Timeline

4-5 Months Before Intake (October/November)

Research different neighborhoods and decide between on-campus living or a suburban share house. If you want a room in a Monash Hall (MRS), apply as soon as you have your Letter of Offer.

2-3 Months Before Arrival

Narrow down your choices. Check for any "early bird" discounts or specific PBSA specials for the Clayton market. Ensure you have your finances and enrollment documents ready.

1 Month Before Arrival

Finalize your lease, pay your bond (lodged with the RTBA in Victoria), and organize your arrival. Melbourne Airport is about 45-60 minutes from Clayton by car or the SkyBus + Train/Bus combination.

Transport and Getting Around

The Monash Clayton campus is one of the best-connected hubs in Melbourne’s southeast:

  • The 601 Express Bus: A dedicated, high-frequency shuttle between Huntingdale Station and the Clayton campus.
  • Train Network: Huntingdale and Clayton stations (Pakenham/Cranbourne lines) connect you to the CBD in 30 minutes.
  • Inter-Campus Shuttle: A free shuttle bus (with Wi-Fi) connects Clayton to Caulfield and Peninsula campuses regularly.
  • Cycling: The campus features secure "Bike Arrival Stations" with lockers and showers, making cycling from nearby suburbs very practical.
  • Student Concession: Full-time domestic students receive a 50% discount on all public transport. International students can apply for a 50% discount on an annual International Student Travel Pass.

Tenancy Agreement "Cheat Sheet"

In Victoria, rental rules are governed by Consumer Affairs Victoria.

  • The Bond: Usually equivalent to one month's rent. It must be lodged with the Victorian Residential Tenancies Bond Authority (RTBA).
  • Condition Report: You must receive this within 3 days of move-in. Take photos of everything to protect your bond.
  • Rent Increases: Landlords cannot increase rent more than once every 12 months.
  • Repairs: Landlords must address urgent repairs (like plumbing or electrical issues) within 24-48 hours.

Scam Prevention and Safety

  • View Before You Pay: Never send a deposit for a share house until you or someone you trust has inspected the room.
  • Reputable Sites: Stick to the Monash Residential Services website, official PBSA portals, or major real estate sites like Realestate.com.au.
  • Secure Payments: Always pay via bank transfer to an Australian account. Avoid cash or untraceable international transfers.
  • Campus Safety: Monash Security is available 24/7, and the SafeZone app allows students to trigger an immediate alert if they feel unsafe on campus.

International Student Guide

  • Bank Accounts: Major banks (CBA, Westpac, NAB) have branches directly on the Clayton campus.
  • Groceries: Clayton Road is the best hub for diverse supermarkets and fresh produce. The Glen (Glen Waverley) offers high-end shopping.
  • Socializing: Joining Monash student clubs or the Monash Student Association (MSA) is the best way to meet people.
  • Orientation: Move in at least one week before class starts to settle into your new home and explore the massive Clayton campus grounds.

What to Pack vs. What's Provided

Usually provided in Monash MRS Usually bring or buy
Bed, mattress, and study desk Bedding (sheets, duvet, pillows)
Wardrobe and shelving Personal laptop and academic supplies
Shared kitchen white goods Towels and personal toiletries
High-speed Wi-Fi and utilities Personal kitchenware (if self-catering)

Accessibility and Special Requirements

Most modern PBSA buildings and the Monash Clayton campus are built to high accessibility standards. If you require specialized housing (e.g., step-free access or proximity to specific medical services), contact the Monash Disability Support Services early. They can help you identify local housing options that meet your specific mobility or sensory needs.

Final Tips

The best experience for a Monash Clayton student is found right in Clayton or Notting Hill. While you might find cheaper rooms further out, the time saved on commuting and the ability to walk to class makes living near campus the ultimate choice. Always factor in the cost of your "Concession myki" or "Travel Pass" when comparing suburban versus on-campus living.

Get your
best options

Share a few details and we will send tailored rooms near Monash University (Clayton Campus).

Student Accommodation Near Monash University (Clayton Campus)

Powered by Best Student Halls

Cost of Living Calculator

Estimate your monthly expenses near Monash University (Clayton Campus).

Monthly

Accommodation

Food & Dining

Public Transport

Taxi & Rideshare

Other Expenses

Cost Breakdown

Based on your selected preferences.

Accommodation
Food & Dining
Transportation
Other Expenses
Total
Accommodation
Food & Dining
Transportation
Other Expenses

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Monash University (Clayton Campus).

Where is Monash University Clayton Campus located?
The campus is located in Clayton, approximately 20km southeast of the Melbourne CBD. It is the largest of all Monash campuses.
Does Monash Clayton offer on-campus accommodation?
Yes, Monash Residential Services (MRS) operates several halls of residence and apartments on campus, including traditional halls and self-contained studio apartments.
What are the best neighborhoods for Monash Clayton students?
Clayton is the most popular for proximity. Notting Hill is popular for its student vibe, while Oakleigh and Carnegie are sought after for their cafes, shopping, and social scenes.
How do I get to the Clayton campus by public transport?
The campus is served by Huntingdale and Clayton train stations. The 601 Express Bus runs every 4 minutes during the semester from Huntingdale Station directly to the campus bus loop.
Is there a free shuttle between Monash campuses?
Yes, Monash provides a free inter-campus shuttle bus (with Wi-Fi) that runs regularly between the Clayton, Caulfield, and Peninsula campuses for students and staff.
What is the average weekly rent for a share house in Clayton?
A private room in a shared house in Clayton typically costs between A$200 and A$450 per week, depending on the house's age and proximity to the campus.
Are there Purpose-Built Student Accommodations (PBSA) near Clayton?
Yes, options like Belong@Clayton offer modern student-specific living. Many students also choose PBSA hubs in the CBD or South Yarra and commute via train.
Are international students eligible for transport discounts in Melbourne?
Full-time international students can apply for an International Student Travel Pass, which offers up to a 50% discount on annual public transport fares in Victoria.