We highly recommend arranging long term private rental accommodation in person. We recommend this so you can inspect properties and make an informed decision on location, price, safety and proximity to public transport. It also reduces the risk of exposure to rental scams which often pretend to have properties available for rent and ask for money upfront.
This is why we encourage that only short term accommodation or on campus housing should be pre-arranged before your arrival. For any long term arrangements, it is vital that you see what your options are in person.
Never send or give anyone you don’t know any money without inspecting inside the property and using good judgement. More information about avoiding scams can be found on the Australian Government Scamwatch website.
If you are moving to Sydney you will need to organise temporary accommodation while you look for permanent housing. We recommend arriving in Sydney well before semester begins as many students are looking for accommodation in the weeks leading up to the beginning of classes.