international education
campusreview . com . au
International students reluctant to enrol without secure housing .
By Emilie Lauer
One in two international students are reluctant to enrol in Australian Universities due to a lack of secure accommodation , according to the results of a new survey .
Amid a rental crisis which will see Australia fall short of 106,300 homes by 2027 , an IDP survey has found that more than 50 per cent of international students are worried about housing .
The survey of 21,000 students from 108 countries showed that 33 per cent of potential students would only enrol in an Australian university if they had booked accommodation .
Nearly 25 per cent said they would reassess their study destination if they are unable to secure a room .
While international student numbers are still below pre-pandemic , the latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showed that 53,640 students arrived in the country during March .
A 2022 research study highlighted that one in four overseas students were experiencing severe financial stress before the pandemic started .
According to a spokesperson from the University of Sydney universities are aware of how difficult it is for overseas students to find accommodation right now .
“ We know the current rental market in Sydney is difficult , and we support students to find accommodation , including offering emergency accommodation and financial assistance to those who need it ,” a USyd spokesperson told Campus Review .
‘ Difficult ’
Sydney University said it filled the 2400 low-cost dormitory places located in on and around campus quickly this year .
To further assist the university said it has partnered with several hotels across Sydney to provide short-term accommodation at a discounted price .
A UNSW spokesperson also told Campus Review the university had seen higher demand for student accommodation than in previous years and that its on-campus accommodation was fully booked .
The university said they are looking to open a short-term accommodation and a concierge service to provide individual support and options to students looking for a room .
The University of Wollongong also said the tight private rental market in Sydney and the Illawarra region had seen demand for on-campus accommodation soar .
“ Where students choose to seek accommodation , whether in a UOW residence , in the private rental market or some other arrangement , is a matter of individual choice and responsibility ,” a UOW spokesperson said .
Picture : David Crosling / NewsWire
“ Regardless of the type of accommodation they seek , we are committed to supporting students and to helping those searching for suitable accommodation .”
The university said they provide a range of accommodation options to students , housing support officer assistance , emergency housing assistance and over 2,278 beds across five residences .
In Victoria , the University of Melbourne said international students applying to live in university-owned residences are guaranteed a room .
The university said it has partnered with the Victorian Government to advise and support international students who struggle to find accommodation off-campus .
RMIT DVC Education Professor Sherman Young said the university acknowledges the impact of rising living costs on students .
“ We know a home base that feels comfortable and secure is important to our students , local and international ,” Professor Young told Campus Review .
“ RMIT offers a range of supports and services to ensure students understand their rights and responsibilities when renting , sharing or living in student accommodation .”
The University of Queensland said international students studying at St Lucia or Herston campuses are guaranteed an accommodation through the university services at the start of each year .
“ Accommodation support services were increased last year in response to the high demand for rentals , and UQ students requiring assistance are encouraged to contact our student support team ,” a UQ spokesperson said . ■
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