Housing

Yes, it can be challenging due to the lack of Australian rental history. To improve your chances: bring reference letters from previous landlords overseas (translated if needed), an employment offer letter and payslips, and consider offering to pay 2 months' rent in advance. Starting in a furnished serviced apartment or sharehouse for the first 1–3 months while you build local references is a smart approach.

A rental bond is a security deposit of 4 weeks' rent. Unlike most countries, it is NOT held by the landlord - it's lodged with a government authority (e.g., NSW Fair Trading Rental Bonds). At the end of your tenancy, the bond is returned minus any legitimate deductions for damage or unpaid rent. Disputes are resolved by the state tribunal.

Yes, but you'll need to compensate with strong evidence of income and character. Bring your employment contract, 3 months of payslips or bank statements, a letter from your employer, and a reference from your previous landlord (even if overseas). Some agents accept LinkedIn profiles or professional references as substitutes.

Electricity is particularly expensive in Australia - budget AUD 120–200/month for a one-bedroom apartment. Gas (where available) costs AUD 50–100/month. NBN internet is AUD 60–90/month for a standard plan. Total utilities typically run AUD 200–300/month for one person.

Sydney is the most expensive (1-BR inner suburbs: AUD 2,900–3,700/mo, with average ~AUD 2,900 as of Jan 2026). Melbourne is slightly cheaper (AUD 2,100–2,900/mo) and has the best public transport. Brisbane is the most affordable of the three (AUD 2,200–2,800/mo) but its gap to Sydney has narrowed sharply since 2024. All three have competitive rental markets where good applications are essential.