A Comprehensive Guide to Housing for New Migrants in Australia

Australia’s housing landscape presents both opportunities and challenges for new migrants. Whether you’re arriving for work, study, or family reunification, securing the right accommodation is one of the first major steps in your settlement journey. This guide explores the key aspects of the Australian housing market—from types of accommodation and typical costs to short-term strategies, rental processes, home ownership, and support systems—to help migrants make informed and confident decisions.

Understanding the Housing Landscape

Australia’s major cities (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane) are known for high housing costs, while regional and suburban areas offer more affordability but often fewer services or job opportunities. The current housing crisis has made affordable rentals harder to find, especially for temporary visa holders and those from non-English-speaking backgrounds who may face language barriers, lack of references, or unfamiliar rental systems (The Conversation, RMIT).

Humanitarian migrants often experience transitional housing shifts. Research shows that around 59% of humanitarian entrants move at least once shortly after arrival as they shift from temporary to more permanent arrangements (AIFS – BNLA).

Housing Types and Costs

Accommodation Types

• Shared Housing: Rooms in shared homes. Cost: AUD $150–$250/week
• Studio Apartments: Single self-contained units. Cost: AUD $300–$450/week
• One-Bedroom Units: Suitable for individuals or couples. Cost: AUD $400–$600/week
• Two-Bedroom Units: Ideal for small families. Cost: AUD $550–$800/week
• Full Houses: Suitable for larger families. Cost: AUD $600–$1,000+/week

These costs vary by location. Sydney and Melbourne are the most expensive cities, while regional and suburban areas offer lower rental prices (Settlement Service).

Where to Live: Urban, Suburban or Regional?

• Urban Centres: High cost, high opportunity. Best for employment access but intense rental competition.
• Suburban Areas: Balanced affordability and access to jobs and services.
• Regional Communities: Lower costs and close-knit communities, but fewer jobs and services.

Lifestyle factors like school quality, public transport, and cultural community access also impact the best choice for you (Australian Visa Advice).

Short-Term vs. Long-Term Housing

Short-Term Strategies

Temporary options include:

• Hostels
• Serviced apartments
• Airbnb

These options give time to explore neighborhoods and build documents (rental history, bank statements) needed for longer-term rentals (AIFS – BNLA).

Long-Term Transition

Many migrants secure long-term leases within 3–6 months. It’s common to start with temporary housing before finding something more permanent. Preparation and attending open inspections help with successful rental applications (AIFS – BNLA).

Navigating the Rental Market

Application Process

You’ll need:

• ID (Passport or visa)
• Proof of income/employment
• References or alternative documentation (bank records, job contracts)

Being prepared allows faster applications in competitive markets (Australian Visa Advice).

Tenant Rights and Legal Terms

Understand:

• Lease agreements
• Bond (security deposit)
• Condition reports
• Tenant rights (vary by state)

You can get legal advice from community centers or tenant unions if unclear (Home Affairs).

Managing Costs and Avoiding Housing Stress

Housing should not exceed 30% of your income. Higher than this can lead to stress and limit spending on food, transport, and health (Refugee Council).

If you’re struggling:

• Explore house sharing
• Look in outer suburbs
• Use rent assistance via Centrelink (if eligible)
• Get help from financial counselors

Considering Home Ownership

Buying a Home: Costs and Rules

• Deposit: 10–20% of purchase price
• Other Costs: Stamp duty, legal fees, inspection costs
• Median Prices: AUD $885,000+ (house), AUD $673,000+ (unit) (Your Mortgage)

For non-permanent residents, FIRB approval is often required. Some banks impose stricter lending rules for temporary visa holders (Home Affairs).

Mortgage Preparation

• Establish good credit history
• Seek pre-approval
• Compare lenders and interest rates
• Consider working with a broker familiar with migrant lending

Challenges to Expect

Language & Culture

• Language barriers can make it harder to understand leases and negotiate.
• Cultural expectations around housing differ.
• Seek bilingual support or use translated materials to understand your rights.

Discrimination

• Discrimination based on nationality or ethnicity still exists.
• Know your rights under anti-discrimination laws.
• Tenant advocacy groups can help with complaints or mediation.

Support Services

Government Programs

• Centrelink: Rent assistance
• Humanitarian Services: Short-term housing support
• State Housing Authorities: Long public housing waitlists, but still an option

Community Support

• Ethnic community groups
• Religious charities
• Migrant advocacy networks

These groups help with:

• House searches
• Inspections
• Paperwork
• Legal support

Online Tools

• Realestate.com.au and Domain.com.au for housing listings
• MoneySmart for budgeting and financial tools
• Settlement Services for legal and housing rights info (Home Affairs)

Top Cities for New Migrants

City	Job Sectors	Cost of Living	Notes
Sydney	Finance, Tech, Education	Very High	High-paying jobs but expensive
Melbourne	Creative, Healthcare	High	Cultural hub and balanced living
Brisbane	Health, Hospitality	Moderate	Warm climate and outdoor lifestyle
Adelaide	Tech, Education	Low-Moderate	Family-friendly and quiet
Perth	Mining, Public Services	Moderate	High salaries and relaxed lifestyle
Hobart	Tourism, Arts	Low	Peaceful and scenic
Gold Coast	Tourism, Retail	Moderate	Coastal living with lower costs
Cairns	Environmental Sciences	Low	Tropical lifestyle and relaxed pace

Final Thoughts

Your housing journey in Australia won’t be perfect from day one—and that’s okay. Many migrants move 2–3 times before settling. The key is to plan carefully, know your rights, and ask for help when needed.

Start with short-term shelter, learn the market, build documentation, and set clear financial goals. From there, you can work towards a secure, long-term place that suits your needs.

Australia welcomes skilled and motivated newcomers—with the right approach, your new home is within reach.