Overview
RMIT University is a global leader in design, technology, and business, with three major campuses across Melbourne. Each campus offers a distinct student experience, from the high-energy urban sprawl of the City campus to the creative hub of Brunswick and the spacious, green environment of Bundoora.
Because RMIT is integrated into the fabric of the city, most students choose from a variety of Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA), private share houses, and managed apartments. Whether you want to live in a high-rise CBD studio or a leafy northern share house, Melbourne’s rental market offers something for every student lifestyle.
For RMIT students, the primary accommodation options include:
- Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) in the CBD, Carlton, and Bundoora.
- On-campus residence (Walert House) at the Bundoora campus.
- Private share houses in the bohemian inner-north (Brunswick, Northcote) or suburban north (Reservoir, Mill Park).
- Homestay for international students arriving for the first time.
PBSA is the preferred choice for most City and Brunswick students, while Bundoora students often split between on-campus living and local suburban rentals.
Quick Comparison: Accommodation Options
| Accommodation type |
Best for |
Typical weekly cost |
Key points |
| PBSA Shared Apartment |
Social students wanting city convenience |
A$380 - A$500 |
All-inclusive bills, high security, built-in events |
| PBSA Studio |
Maximum privacy and modern amenities |
A$550 - A$680+ |
Luxury facilities, central location, gym access |
| On-Campus (Walert House) |
Bundoora students seeking convenience |
A$285 - A$420 |
Located on-site, quiet atmosphere, great for health students |
| Private Share House |
Budget-conscious students wanting a local vibe |
A$220 - A$350 |
Popular in Brunswick/Northcote; bills and furniture extra |
| Private Apartment (1-bed) |
Professionals or couples needing autonomy |
A$500 - A$650 |
Full independence; higher setup and bond costs |
Note: Melbourne's rental market is extremely competitive. Students are encouraged to secure their housing at least 8-10 weeks before their course begins.
Why PBSA and Managed Living Works for RMIT Students
Choosing managed student housing simplifies your transition to life in Melbourne. RMIT has official partnerships with several major providers, ensuring a high standard of care and support.
Key benefits of PBSA for RMIT students:
- Campus Integration: Many CBD providers (like Scape and UniLodge) are literally across the street from the RMIT City campus buildings.
- Fixed Weekly Payments: Your weekly rent covers high-speed Wi-Fi, electricity, water, and building maintenance, making budgeting easy.
- Modern Facilities: Access to 24/7 gyms, cinema rooms, rooftop BBQ areas, and dedicated study hubs.
- Safety: Secure swipe-card access and on-site student support teams are standard.
- RMIT Partnerships: Students can often access exclusive rates or priority booking through the RMIT accommodation portal.
Best Neighborhoods for RMIT University Students
Near City and Brunswick Campuses
| Area |
Distance to Campus |
Transport Mode |
Atmosphere |
| Melbourne CBD |
< 1 km |
Walk / Free Tram |
High-energy city living and major shopping |
| Carlton |
< 1 km |
Walk / Tram |
The "Education Precinct"; famous for food and parks |
| Brunswick |
< 1 km (Brunswick) |
Walk / Train / Tram |
Artsy, "hipster," and famous for live music and vintage shops |
| North Melbourne |
1.5 km |
Walk / Tram |
Historic, residential, and popular for share houses |
| Northcote |
4-5 km |
Train / Tram |
Trendy, social, and great for larger share houses |
Near Bundoora Campus
| Area |
Distance to Campus |
Transport Mode |
Atmosphere |
| Bundoora |
< 1 km |
Walk |
Quiet, suburban, and very convenient for campus |
| Preston |
6 km |
Tram 86 / Bus |
Major student hub with markets and great transport links |
| Reservoir |
4 km |
Tram / Bus |
Affordable, quiet residential area popular with students |
| Mill Park |
2 km |
Walk / Bus |
Large family homes perfect for share house setups |
Expected Monthly Budget
| Monthly cost category |
Budget (Share House) |
Moderate (PBSA Shared) |
Higher Comfort (Studio) |
| Accommodation |
A$1,250 |
A$1,850 |
A$2,800+ |
| Food and groceries |
A$450 |
A$650 |
A$900 |
| Public transport |
A$65 |
A$95 |
A$165 |
| Social life and entertainment |
A$220 |
A$450 |
A$750 |
| Mobile phone |
A$30 |
A$45 |
A$70 |
Most students at RMIT should budget between A$1,900 and A$4,600 per month, depending on their campus and housing choice.
Booking Timeline
4-5 Months Before Intake (October/November)
Research different providers and neighborhoods. If you are an international student, consider booking a PBSA Shared Apartment or On-Campus at Bundoora early to guarantee your housing before you arrive.
2-3 Months Before Arrival
Narrow down your choices. Check for any "early bird" discounts or specific RMIT student housing specials. Ensure you have your letter of offer ready for the application process.
1 Month Before Arrival
Finalize your lease, pay your bond (lodged with the RTBA in Victoria), and organize your arrival. The SkyBus from Melbourne Airport is the easiest way to reach the City campus area.
Transport and Getting Around
Melbourne is one of the most well-connected student cities in the world:
- The Free Tram Zone: Covers the entire CBD and Docklands, making travel around the RMIT City campus free.
- Tram 86: The vital link for Bundoora students, connecting the campus directly to the CBD via Preston and Northcote.
- Train Network: Melbourne Central and Jewell stations are the main hubs for the City and Brunswick campuses respectively.
- Cycling: Melbourne is increasingly bike-friendly, with major trails like the Upfield Bike Path serving students in the north.
- Student Concession: Full-time international and domestic students are eligible for a 50% discount on all public transport using a Concession myki.
Tenancy Agreement "Cheat Sheet"
In Victoria, rental agreements 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 detailed photos of everything to ensure your bond is returned.
- 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 money for a property you haven't seen in person or via a live video call.
- Trust Official Channels: Stick to reputable PBSA websites or the RMIT official accommodation portal.
- Secure Payments: Always pay via bank transfer to an Australian account. Avoid cash or untraceable international transfers.
- Campus Safety: RMIT Security is available 24/7 across all campuses, and the SafeZone app is a must-have for all students.
International Student Guide
- Bank Accounts: Major banks (CBA, NAB, ANZ) have branches integrated into or near all three RMIT campuses.
- Groceries: Queen Victoria Market (near City campus) and Preston Market (near Bundoora) are the best places for fresh, affordable produce.
- Socializing: Joining RMIT student clubs or the RMIT Link programs is the best way to meet people and find potential future housemates.
- Orientation: Move in at least one week before class starts to settle in and explore Melbourne's famous laneways and coffee culture.
What to Pack vs. What's Provided
| Usually provided in RMIT PBSA |
Usually bring or buy |
| Bed frame and mattress |
Bedding (sheets, duvet, pillows) |
| Study desk and chair |
Personal laptop and adapters |
| Wardrobe and full-length mirror |
Towels and personal toiletries |
| High-speed Wi-Fi and utilities |
Kitchenware (if living in a shared flat) |
Accessibility and Special Requirements
Most modern PBSA buildings and RMIT campus facilities are built to high accessibility standards. If you require specialized housing (e.g., step-free access or proximity to specific medical services), contact the RMIT Equitable Learning Service early. They can help you identify local housing options that meet your specific needs.
Final Tips
The best RMIT accommodation experience is found in Carlton or Brunswick. While the rent may be premium, the ability to walk to class and access the best of Melbourne’s creative culture makes it the ultimate choice for a successful student life. Always compare the "total weekly cost" (rent + bills + transport) before making your final decision.
