At Journal Student Living, our Melbourne student homes are purpose-built with international students at the centre. You arrive with a furnished room, a building staffed around the clock, and a community of people making the same move. We’ve set it all up so you land with everything sorted and can get on with the reason you came.

International Student Accommodation in Melbourne Room to arrive, space to grow

Every year, thousands of students pick their international student accommodation without ever setting foot in the city they’re moving to. For students and their families, that single decision shapes how the first semester goes, and often the whole year that follows.

Student Living Locations

Live close to class, cafés and culture

Campus House

172 Bouverie Street, Carlton VIC 3053

Directly across the road from the University of Melbourne. Close enough to roll out of bed and still make your lecture. Peak convenience, ultimate vibes. Bookings open.

  • icon 20m to The University of Melbourne
  • icon 150m to Trinity College
  • icon 850m to RMIT

Market Way

100 Franklin Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000

Modern city life with an old-school cool vibe. In the heart of the action, this is for students seeking a Masters in Adventure. Bookings open 2026.

  • icon 300m to RMIT
  • icon 800m to University of Melbourne
  • icon 1km to Trinity College

Your New Location in Melbourne

Right where you need to be

Journal Properties

Built around you

Moving to a new city as an international student is different from just moving. Our Melbourne student homes were built around that difference, with a professional on-site team, a community already in place, and every practical need sorted before you arrive.

First Weeks in Australia Guide

From touchdown to settled in

Sort Your Visa

Apply for your student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Start early as processing times vary by country.

Know the Costs

Factor in food, transport, and personal expenses when budgeting. Using a cost of living calculator helps you plan before you arrive.

Get Your OSHC

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is compulsory for your student visa. Arrange it before you leave and keep your policy active.

Pack for Seasons

Melbourne weather changes quickly, sometimes within a day. Pack layers and check what electrical adaptors you'll need for Australian power points.

Person working on a laptop at a desk in a modern, well-lit room with shelves and a bed in the background.

Get Connected

Pick up a local SIM card on arrival for affordable data and calls. Major providers include Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone.

Set Up Banking

Open an Australian bank account as soon as you arrive. Most major banks let you start the process online before you land.

How To Choose Student Accommodation

What matters when picking your place

No Rental History

Private landlords and real estate agents typically require rental history and references, which most international students don't have. Purpose-built student accommodation at Journal doesn't require any of that. You book directly, with no Australian guarantor needed.

All Bills Included

Rent at Journal covers your room, all utilities, unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi, and access to all communal facilities and building amenities. There are no extra bills or surprise charges at the end of the month. One regular fortnightly payment covers everything in your lease.

24/7 Support

Having a professional team on site around the clock is one of the biggest differences between purpose-built student accommodation and a private rental. At Journal, support is available 24 hours a day for maintenance, safety concerns, and settling-in questions.

Safe and Secure

Security at Journal includes speed gates at the building entry, secured key card access to every room, and CCTV throughout the building. For international students and their families, knowing the building is professionally secured provides real peace of mind.

Flexible Payments

International students can use Flywire to pay the initial deposit, making it straightforward to transfer funds from overseas in your own currency. Ongoing rent is then paid fortnightly by direct debit, Mastercard, Visa, or China UnionPay, with no surcharge for direct debit payments.

Book From Anywhere

Booking your room at Journal is fully online, so you can secure your place from anywhere in the world before you arrive in Australia. Choose your room, complete your details, accept the terms, and pay your deposit. No in-person visit needed, and no local contact required.

Success Stories

Student wins that started at Journal

Journal gave me a supportive community to grow—now, I help organisations turn data into insights that drive real-world impact.

Imalka, Analytics Consultant
  • Malaysia
  • University of Melbourne

Journal gave me the confidence to step out of my comfort zone—now, I lead renewable energy projects shaping Australia’s power grid.

Abhi, Power Systems Engineer
  • UAE
  • University of Melbourne

Living at Journal surrounded me with diverse perspectives—now, I help global companies navigate the future of sustainability at EY.

Camilia, Senior Consultant, Climate Change
  • Malaysia
  • The University of Melbourne

From city life at Journal to researching deep-sea sharks, my journey proves that taking a leap into the unknown can lead to incredible discoveries.

Ella, Marine Biology Masters Student
  • Australia
  • RMIT University
Made for the move to Melbourne

Student Life Articles

Helpful reads before and after you arrive

  • Guide

What to Do in Melbourne During Uni Winter Break

Wondering what to do in Melbourne during winter break? From iconic day trips and free attractions to cosy cafés, sporting events and cultural experiences, this guide covers the best ways for students to make the most of winter in Melbourne.

  • Competition

Share Your Journal Story & Win a $200 Gift Card

Share your Journal life in a short video for the chance to win a $200 gift card

  • Guide

Best Places to Visit in Australia as a Student

Discover the best places to visit in Australia as a student, from Melbourne and Sydney to the Great Barrier Reef, Byron Bay and Tasmania.

  • Resources

Best Jobs for International Students in Australia

Discover the best jobs for university students in Australia, from hospitality and retail to tutoring and internships. Find flexible student-friendly work options in Melbourne.

  • Guide

Best Podcasts for Students

Looking for the best podcasts for students? From productivity and study tips to career advice, personal finance and wellbeing, podcasts are a great way to learn on the go. Discover our top podcast recommendations for uni students in and find inspiration for your next study break or workout.

  • Guide

Semester 2 Student Accommodation: When Should You Book?

Wondering if you’ve left it too late to book student accommodation for Semester 2? Learn when to book, what to expect and how to secure a room in Melbourne.

Events Carousel

Get to know Melbourne with others

Sushi Making

Ever wondered what it feels like to be a sushi chef? Our sushi making workshop lets you slice, roll, and taste your creations, turning an ordinary evening into a flavorful adventure. It’s hands-on, it’s fun, and it’s absolutely delicious. So, who’s up for some sushi magic?

Journal Explores Melbourne Zoo

Journal ventured out to Melbourne Zoo in Parkville! As Australia's oldest zoo, it boasts a fascinating collection of animals from around the globe, including majestic mammals like lions and elephants, towering giraffes, and a variety of Australian wildlife.

Native Plant Dyeing Workshop

Immerse yourself in the world of natural dyes at our Native Plant Dyeing Workshop. It’s a unique opportunity to get creative with local Melbourne flora and learn a sustainable craft that adds a personal touch to any fabric. Perfect for eco-friendly fashion enthusiasts!

Yoga Classes

Stretch, strengthen, and unwind with our yoga sessions. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or just starting out, these high-quality classes are a fantastic way to find your zen and keep your mind and body in sync. It's all about good vibes and great stretches, right here in our community.

FAQs

What happens if my visa is declined after booking?

First-year students at Journal can cancel their booking without penalty if their student visa application is declined. Proof of the declined visa must be provided within 72 hours of receiving the decision. This policy applies to first-year bookings and gives students and families peace of mind when planning from overseas.

What happens if I don't receive my university offer?

Bookings at Journal can be cancelled without penalty for first-year students who do not receive a university offer. Proof of the unsuccessful application must be provided within 72 hours of receiving notification. This policy applies to first-year bookings only and is separate from the 48-hour cooling-off period available to all students.

What types of accommodation are available for international students in Australia?

International students in Australia can choose from homestay accommodation (living with an Australian family or host family through a homestay provider), a private rental through a landlord or real estate agent, a share house, hotels, and purpose-built student accommodation. At Journal, choose from a private room or shared rooms within fully furnished, all-inclusive residences.

How early should I book international student accommodation?

The best time to book international student housing is as early as possible, as room availability can be limited closer to the start of semester. For Semester 1, bookings typically open between September and December. For Semester 2, bookings typically open from April to July. Booking early gives students more options and greater choice.

What lease length options are available?

Two lease lengths are available at Journal: a Full Year lease and a Semester lease. The Semester option is designed for exchange students and those completing a single semester of study in Australia. Both come with all-inclusive rent, fully furnished rooms, and the same level of access to communal amenities and on-site support.

Is a security deposit required at Journal?

Purpose-built student accommodation in Australia requires a security deposit, known as a rental bond, before you move in. At Journal, this bond is lodged with the Residential Tenancies Bond Authority (RTBA) for safekeeping and returned at the end of your lease, provided there is no damage beyond fair wear and tear.

Can under-18 international students stay at Journal?

Yes, Journal Student Living accepts international students under 18 and has a dedicated under-18 support program with specific child safety policies in place. Under-18 residents receive additional care and supervision from the on-site team. Parents and guardians should contact Journal directly for full details on the under-18 application process and requirements.

How do I get around Melbourne as an international student?

Melbourne’s public transport network covers the city and surrounding suburbs via trains, trams, and buses, all accessed using a Myki card and all major bank cards. Campus House in Carlton and Market Way near State Library station both sit close to the city and major universities. Download the PTV app to plan your trips and check your student concession eligibility.

Need Help Choosing Your Room?

Reach out and we'll sort your student housing before you arrive.