🏠 UniAbode – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

---

UniAbode – Australian University Housing Assistance Program is a one-of-a-kind initiative by Fivestar Group, a trusted name in the industry with over 14 years of experience. This program is designed to help international students and new residents find suitable accommodation based on their preferences. Our dedicated team assists you in securing safe, affordable, and convenient housing options as you begin your journey in Australia.

To enrol in the UniAbode Program:

1. Visit the Enrolment Page on our website.
    
2. Read and accept the Terms & Conditions to proceed.
    
3. Complete Step 1: Choose your preferred housing support plan and make the payment. Save a screenshot of your receipt.
    
4. Return to the enrolment page and proceed to Step 2: Fill in the Enrolment Form, upload your payment receipt, and submit the form.
    

You will receive an Acceptance or Rejection Letter from our coordinator within 48 hours. If rejected, instructions will be provided to rectify and resubmit your application. If accepted, processing will commence approximately two weeks before your arrival.

We offer various housing options tailored to students and new residents:

1. University-operated accommodations – $500–$900/week
    
2. Privately-operated student housing – $300–$500/week
    
3. Licensed rooming houses (owner-operated) – $250–$400/week
    
4. Shared housing with other students – $275–$400/week
    
5. Paying guest accommodations – $275–$450/week
    

While prices are indicative, we always strive to find the most affordable and suitable option based on your preferences submitted during enrolment.

Once you’re enrolled, your case will be assigned to one of our experienced multicultural staff members. Processing usually begins two weeks prior to your arrival in Australia. During this time, we contact property owners from our exclusive databases to identify suitable listings based on your preferences.

You will be offered 1–3 listings depending on availability. Upon your approval, we reserve the property using the token advance collected during enrolment. Be prepared to pay a full bond and advance rent if required by the landlord.

Approximately 95% of placements are within a 10 km radius of your university. However, some students opt for properties 20–30 minutes away to save on rent. In rare cases, your first option may be up to 30–50 minutes away, depending on market availability.

No. To prevent confusion and ensure efficiency, we do not provide an open listing. Instead, our unique software assigns your application to an agent who uses curated databases of verified owners and former student hosts to find suitable options. This personalised approach is based on your enrolment details and ensures a smoother experience.

Each region has a minimum rental market rate, which our coordinators are well aware of. If your budget is significantly below the market average (e.g., $150/week in a $300/week area), we may not be able to assist.
Please ensure your finances align with the commitments you declared to Australian immigration. We're committed to finding the most economical options but within realistic limits.

Unfortunately, no.
Our process involves substantial preparatory work, including communication with landlords and coordination by staff. This work begins before presenting any options, and our team is compensated accordingly. Like any professional service in Australia, fees are charged for time and labour, not just results.

Before moving in, landlords typically require:

• Bond (Security Deposit) – equivalent to 4 weeks’ rent
   
• Advance Rent – usually 4 weeks
   

Example: For a $200/week room, you’ll need to pay:

• $800 bond
   
• $800 advance rent
   
• Less the $200 token (already paid during enrolment)
  → Total on arrival: $1,400
   

We do not recommend relying solely on Forex or travel cards for initial payments. Most owners require cash upon arrival, and many Forex cards do not support ATM withdrawals in Australia.

We strongly advise bringing at least AUD $4,000 in cash, which covers:

• Bond and rent
   
• Local SIM card
   
• Public transport
   
• Groceries
   
• Basic essentials for 2–3 months
   

You will receive a bank card within 5 working days after opening an Australian bank account, which you can then use for most transactions.

We recommend:

• Telstra Prepaid – Reliable coverage
   
• Optus Prepaid – Cost-effective with wide coverage
   
• Boost Mobile – Telstra network, includes unlimited calls to India
   
• Amaysim – Optus network, value plans with Indian call packages
   

Tip: Bring your current SIM with roaming enabled for one week to ensure connectivity until you purchase a local SIM.

No, the enrolment fee is non-refundable.
This covers administrative and staffing costs incurred upon submission. However, if your visa is refused, your payment (excluding PayPal or bank transaction fees) will be refunded.

Avoid packing excessive formalwear or accessories. Focus on essentials.
Refer to our Packing Guide (link) for a detailed list.

Once you arrive, we can assist or advise with:

• Opening a bank account
   
• Buying a SIM card
   
• Getting a public transport card
   
• Locating local grocery and Indian stores
   
• Setting up your OSHC (for students)
   
• Applying for a Tax File Number (TFN)
   

More info: [Things to Do After Arrival – Link]

Minimum stay periods depend on the landlord. Some accept 1–3 month stays, but most require a 6-month commitment. If you leave before the agreed term, UniAbode and its affiliates are not responsible for helping recover bond or resolving disputes.

Yes, shared housing comes with responsibilities:

• Participate in cleaning rosters
   
• Clean kitchen and utensils after use
   
• Store food properly and avoid occupying communal spaces
   
• Respect others’ belongings
   
• Keep shared spaces tidy and hygienic
   

If issues arise, notify the house owner or manager.

Most Australian bathrooms have dry and wet zones. Water spillage in dry areas can cause severe structural damage.
Toilet paper is the standard, and alternatives (e.g., using water) should be done carefully to avoid damaging floors. Any negligence can result in forfeiting your deposit or legal liability.

Yes. Airport pickup is available upon request. Contact us for a quote.
Note:

• Taxi is usually a cost-effective option.
   
• Uber often requires an Australian bank card.
   
• Many universities also offer free airport pickups – check with yours.
   

You can message us on WhatsApp at +61 403 099 994 for any queries related to housing, life in Australia, or post-enrolment support.

We’re here to help — before and after you arrive.