Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Your questions about living on campus answered.
![Students walking in the accommodation precinct Students walking in the accommodation precinct](/content/dam/images/unsw-wide/accommodation/students/2020-09-student-accommodation/2020-09-Student-Accommodation-walkway-0041.cropimg.width=335.crop=square.jpg)
- Future Students
- Current Residents
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Living on campus is about fully immersing yourself in university life and creating unforgettable experiences. It’s also about choice and our range of award-winning accommodation offers something for everyone.
Get easy access to Sydney city and beaches, walk to lectures and make lifelong friends with people from around the world in a fun and nurturing community centred around you and your education.
More than just comfortable living spaces - our buzzing student community offers an unbeatable lifestyle and the flexibility to shape your university journey your way.
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Colleges provide an in-home community with an on-site student support team to provide academic and wellbeing support. Many colleges are fully catered and residents have busy social calendars filled with events, activities and dedicated study nights. Perfect for undergraduate students who are still on the pathway to independence or if you’re new to Sydney and want to make a lot of new friends quickly!
Located on and off campus, UNSW apartments provide an independent, self-sufficient style of living for undergraduates and postgraduates, including couples and families.
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We know choosing the right accommodation is a big decision, so we're here to help.
Reflect on what matters most to you. Is it independence? Making new friends? Receiving guidance and support? Access to specific amenities? Understanding your priorities will help narrow down your options.
Explore our college and apartment pages. Each page gives a detailed breakdown of the facilities and support we offer. You can also read student testimonials, view image galleries and take a 360° virtual tour of our rooms and common areas.
Still can’t decide? Take our quiz to discover which lifestyle best suits you. Whether you crave a supportive community or independent living, the quiz will match your preferences to the perfect fit!
Remember to be flexible, there's no right or wrong answer! Preference the options that best fit your personality and desired lifestyle. We’re confident you’ll find the home that’s right for you!
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Applications for new and returning students generally open in September. We recommend you apply early, even before you receive your offer to study at UNSW Sydney. Places fill up fast!
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If you’d like to live in a shared apartment with friends, have each person email our student accommodation office as soon as you’ve submitted your application. Quote each application number and indicate your preference to live together.
We’ll do our best to accommodate your request if there is availability.
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We’ll do our best to keep you updated. If you don’t hear from us, please contact the Student Accommodation office <accommodation@unsw.edu.au> with your details and we’ll get back to you.
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Each college and apartment option have a dedicated webpage that details the support services, inclusions, and room configurations. Each page includes a photo gallery and 360° virtual tours allowing you to virtually explore the space.
Colleges:
Basser, Goldstein, Philip Baxter, Fig Tree Hall, and Colombo House come standard with a king single bed with mattress and protector, wardrobe with hanging space and storage, desk and chair, set of drawers, ceiling fan, rubbish bin, and pinboard.
UNSW Hall provides a king single bed with mattress and protector, wardrobe, desk and chair, drawers, rubbish bin, and pinboard.Apartments:
Each room is furnished with a bed, desk and chair, and wardrobe in each room. There's also a shared living area with a sofa, refrigerator, stove, and vacuum cleaner.
University Terraces apartments include a cooktop, microwave, and fridge in each room. Additionally, 1-bedroom apartments and large studios have a sofa and coffee table.
5-Bedroom apartments boast a full kitchen, bathroom with multiple showers, toilets, and basins, and a spacious living/dining area furnished with sofas, a coffee table, dining chairs, and a dining table. -
UNSW accommodation provides a variety of shared facilities to enhance your student experience. Here's a breakdown of some key amenities available across most colleges and apartments:
Laundry: Conveniently located within each building, you'll find shared laundry facilities equipped with card/app-operated washing machines and dryers, ironing boards, and irons.
Study spaces: Dedicated study rooms are available on each floor of most colleges and in University Terraces and Barker Street apartments. These spaces offer a quiet and focused environment for individual or group study sessions.
Common areas: Take a break from your studies and socialise with fellow residents in the communal common rooms found in each college and some apartments. Many colleges boast beautifully landscaped courtyards or rooftop terraces, perfect for unwinding outdoors.
Kitchen and dining facilities:
- Fully catered colleges provide all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) in a communal dining hall as part of the accommodation package.
- Colombo House and self-catered apartments offer private or shared kitchens equipped with ovens, stoves, microwaves, and refrigerators.
Barbecue areas: Most colleges and apartment buildings (including University Terraces and Barker St) have outdoor BBQ areas for residents to enjoy social gatherings and cookouts.
Vending machines: For a quick snack or drink, vending machines are conveniently located on the ground floor of most colleges and at University Terraces.
For a more detailed list of facilities offered by your chosen accommodation option, please refer to the dedicated webpage. This will provide specific information regarding catering services, common room features, and additional amenities available.
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While your on-campus accommodation provides a comfortable home base, UNSW offers a wealth of additional facilities and services to support your academic and social life during your studies. Here's a glimpse of what you can access as a UNSW student:
Campus life: Beyond academics, UNSW offers a vibrant campus life. The Roundhouse is a popular place to unwind and our student association Arc organises countless events and activities. The Nucleus serves as your one-stop shop for information, advice, and navigating student support services.
Academic support: The UNSW Library boasts extensive collections, study spaces, and resources to enhance your learning.
Wellbeing services: UNSW prioritises student well-being. From medical and dental care to counselling and academic support, a range of services are available to ensure you thrive throughout your studies.
Security: The campus has a 24/7 security team responsible for providing a safe environment for the UNSW community. Services include foot patrols, vehicle patrols, security shuttle buses and safety escort services. The UNSW security office is located nearby and is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. It’s a safe and handy location to use as a meeting point or to wait for a taxi at night.
All colleges and apartments enjoy a high level of security, only allowing students with a swipe card or key to access the buildings. Visit the Your Safety page to learn more.
Additional Resources: UNSW caters to diverse student needs. The Religious Centre offers a welcoming space for spiritual reflection. Childcare services are available for parents, and legal advice services can assist with student-related matters.
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The Kensington Colleges (Basser, Goldstein & Philip Baxter), Fig Tree Hall, UNSW Hall and International House are fully catered, providing breakfast, lunch and dinner for all residents
Philip Baxter, Basser, Goldstein, Fig Tree Hall and UNSW Hall residents dine in The Goldstein Dining Hall while International House residents dine at International House's Dining Hall on premise.
Dining Hall meal times are:
Breakfast: Monday to Friday 7am to 10am
Lunch: Monday to Friday 12.15pm to 2.15pm
Dinner: Monday to Sunday 5pm to 7.15pm
Brunch: Saturday & Sunday 10am to 2pm
If you have any food allergies or special medical/dietary needs, please complete the dietary needs section on your accommodation application or alternatively advise the Student Accommodation office at the time of your enrolment.
Download a Dietary Requirements Form.
Please bring this with you when you check-in. You can fill out your room number when you arrive.
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Rest assured that electricity, gas, and water are included in your accommodation fees.
Stay connected with Wi-Fi access available throughout all colleges and apartments. UNSW utilizes the UniWide fair usage system, providing ample bandwidth for your needs. Please note that the acceptable use of IT resources policy applies.
Cleaning: Depending on your chosen accommodation, cleaning services are included to maintain a clean and fresh environment.
- Cleaned Fortnightly: Basser, Goldstein, Philip Baxter, Fig Tree Hall, and UNSW Hall offer room cleaning services every two weeks.
- Common Area Cleaning: Colombo House and all apartments have regular cleaning of shared common areas only.
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To ensure you're fully prepared for your move into UNSW accommodation, here's a list of essential items you'll need to bring or acquire:
Bedding: UNSW provides mattresses and protectors, but you'll need to bring your own sheets, pillowcases, doona/quilt/blanket, and pillows. These items can be purchased and delivered to your room. Simply go to Suite Design to make an order.
Towels: Pack bath towels, hand towels, and face washers for your personal use.
Toiletries: Shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothpaste, and other personal hygiene items are your responsibility.
Cleaning Supplies: While some colleges offer cleaning services, it's recommended to have basic cleaning supplies on hand, such as dish soap, laundry detergent, surface wipes, and all-purpose cleaner.
Toilet Paper: Stock up on toilet paper to avoid any inconveniences.
Kitchen Essentials (if applicable): If you're residing in a self-catered apartment, you'll need to bring your own dishes, cookware, utensils, and dishwashing supplies.
Tech Accessories: Don't forget any necessary chargers, adapters, or extension cords for your electronic devices.
Personal Items: Bring items that personalize your space and enhance your comfort, such as a desk lamp, rug, throw pillows, and decorations (subject to space limitations).
Optional but Recommended:
- Insurance: Consider taking out contents insurance to protect your belongings against theft or damage.
- First-Aid Kit: Having a basic first-aid kit on hand can be helpful for minor injuries.
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The colleges don’t offer parking for residents, however UNSW offers a limited number of on-campus car parking spaces, managed by Estate Management. To apply for a parking permit, please contact Security & Traffic Management.
Parking on campus is free only when parked in a marked bay:
outside of the permit hours of 7.30am and 7.30pm Monday to Friday;
on weekends
on public holidays (not UNSW holidays).
If you park on High Street, never leave valuables in your car and always ensure you secure your vehicle as this area is targeted by car thieves.
Limited free motorbike parking and bicycle racks are also available.
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Sydney is one of the best cities for international students, according to the QS Best Student Cities 2023. Beaches and museums, sport and music, art and history – there’s always something to discover in Sydney.
Check out why you’ll love this lovely city and where you can eat, shop and explore when you are here in this Life in Sydney guide.
You can also read our International Student Guide for more about your life in Sydney as an international student at UNSW, including student life, scholarships and our degree offerings.
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UNSW’s main campus is located in Kensington, a friendly, multicultural inner-city suburb ideally located between the beach and the city, so you’ll get the best of what Sydney has to offer.
Explore Sydney city by light rail in just 20 minutes, or visit beautiful Coogee Beach just 8 minutes away by bus.
There are a variety of restaurants, shops, healthcare services and amenities around campus that will meet your everyday needs.
Free shuttle buses make it easy to travel between our Kensington and Paddington campuses.
Take an ultimate campus tour with our Student Ambassador Helen. Explore our campuses and surroundings, and see where you will be eating, sleeping, and studying when you are here.
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Make sure that you read our Moving to Sydney guide beforehand, where you’ll find a packing list, to-do list when you arrive, tips and advice for your movement.
UNSW offers free airport pick-up services and a variety of welcome activities and events to commencing international students such as English conversation workshop and Cultural mentor programs to help you get familiarised with your new life quickly. Explore what we offer at the International Student Welcome Centre.
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UNSW has over 300 student-run clubs and societies for you to join. From food and sports to K-pop and Pokémon, you will find like-minded people who share the same interests as you.
Top tip: Make sure you register for O-Week to meet people from student clubs and societies at the beginning of Term!
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Your check-in instructions including dates and location can be found on your licence agreement emailed to you when you accepted your offer.
Check-in time is generally from 8:00AM to 6:00PM, Monday to Friday (unless otherwise specified).
You cannot move in before your check-in date.
You can move in after the official contract date, but you’re required to pay from the date on your agreement.
You’ll also need to contact the Student Accommodation office to advise when you’ll be checking-in.
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Please make sure you bring photo ID, such as your passport.
For security reasons only the licence agreement holder can check-in to their chosen accommodation.
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If you are coming from the airport, you can either take a taxi or if you’re an international student, you can arrange an airport pickup service through Student Development International.
Light rail services can take you to UNSW from Central Station.
- The L2 Randwick Line will take you to Gate 9 of the UNSW Kensington Campus.
- The L3 Kingsford Line will take you to the UNSW's main entry point on Anzac Parade.
High-frequency Light Rail services mean you can just turn up and go. The CBD and South East Light Rail service operates as a turn-up-and-go service. You can see when the next tram is coming by checking the displays on the platform, or on the Transport for NSW app. Tap on and off at the Opal card readers on the platform.
For more information go to Transport for NSW.
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Unfortunately for security reasons, we can’t store any belongings before you arrive.
You can order a linen or kitchen pack in advance, reducing the number of items to bring with you. Simply go to Suite Design to make an order and they can arrange easy delivery for you.
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As soon as you move in, it’s really important to complete your room inventory/condition report via the online Resident Portal.
You should note if anything is missing or broken in your room and this information will be passed on to our Facilities Manager for rectification. It also ensures when you check-out, you won’t be charged for anything that might have been damaged or missing when you checked-in.
You need to make sure you complete this within the first 2 business days of moving in. Instructions can be found in your welcome pack.
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Staff at the Student Accommodation Office are available to assist you with all queries. Get in touch via email or you can drop by our office.
UNSW Student Accommodation Office
Gate 5, High St, Kensington, NSW, 2052
Open Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 6:00pm (hours may vary)
T: +61 (2) 9385 4346
E: accommodation@unsw.edu.auJacaranda Hall Reception Desk
1 Lorne Ave, Kensington, NSW, 2033
Open Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 4:00pm (hours may vary)
T: +61 (2) 9348 0858
E: accommodation@unsw.edu.au -
Residents can access the UNSW Student Accommodation Portal to view or pay accounts, report maintenance issues and check their room inventory. The Portal can be accessed via the Student Accommodation website by logging on with your active University email address and password.
All official notices and notifications will be sent to your z-email allocated by UNSW. This is the official form of communication from the Dean and Student Accommodation Office.
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For colleges
Address incoming mail and deliveries to:
[Resident Full Name]
[College Name]
Gate 5, High Street
Kensington, NSW 2052
AustraliaIncoming mail is sorted by the office and places in pigeon holes located in the Colleges. Residents are advised to check the pigeon holes regularly, and clear it often. Mail not collected within 30 days will be returned to the sender. Residents receiving packages or registered mail will be notified via email to collect from the Accommodation Office. When you leave Colleges, you will need to re-direct all mail to your new address.
For apartments
Incoming mail at Barker St, High St, Cowper Street Apartments each have their own letterbox located at the front of the apartment complex.
At the University Terraces, the mail room is on the ground floor of the east & west side of the building entrance.
For Jacaranda hall, incoming mail is sorted at reception and placed in pigeon holes located at Reception. Residents are advised to check the pigeon holes regularly, and clear it often. Mail not collected within 30 days will be returned to the sender. Residents receiving packages or registered mail will be notified via email to collect. When you leave Apartments, you will need to re-direct all mail to your new address.
The University Terraces
[Resident Full Name]
Unit Number/17 High Street
University Terraces
Kensington NSW 2033
AustraliaCowper Street Apartments
[Resident Full Name]
Unit Number/1 Cowper Street
Randwick NSW 2031
AustraliaJacaranda Hall
[Resident Full Name]
Unit Number/1 Lorne Ave
Kensington NSW 2033
AustraliaHigh Street Apartments
[Resident Full Name]
Unit Number/46 High Street
Randwick NSW 2031
AustraliaBarker Street Apartments
[Resident Full Name]
Unit Number/39 Barker Street
Kingsford NSW 2032
AustraliaOutgoing mail
UNSW Post Office is behind the Library, located at F22 on the UNSW Map.
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It’s your responsibility to carry your key/access card with you at all times and to keep it secure.
Colleges
If you lock yourself out of your room during office hours (Monday to Friday 8:00AM to 6:00PM), visit the Student Accommodation office (Gate 5, High Street). You’ll be issued with a temporary access card to retrieve your card (if you locked it inside).
If you lock yourself out outside of office hours, contact the resident staff member on duty in your respective college. Repeated lockouts may result in disciplinary action such as fines or community service.
If you lose your card, you should contact the Student Accommodation office on +61 2 9385 4346, Estate Management on +61 2 9385 1000 and the Library on +61 2 9065 9444 so they can void your card and stop it from being used fraudulently. A replacement card can be issued by FM Assist for a fee.
Apartments
If you lock yourself out of your room during office hours (Monday to Friday 8:00AM to 6:00PM), visit the Student Accommodation office (Gate 5, High Street). You’ll be issued with a temporary access card/key to retrieve your key (if you locked it inside).
For Jacaranda Hall residents, if you lock yourself out of your room during office hours (Monday to Friday 8:00AM to 10:00PM), visit the Reception desk at the Ground Floor. Similar process, you will be issued with a temporary access card to retrieve your key (if you locked it inside).
If you lock yourself out outside of office hours, contact Security on +61 2 9385 6666, however a fee will be charged.
If you lose your keys/card, you should contact the Student Accommodation office on +61 2 9385 4346. A fee will be charged for a replacement swipe card and for security purposes, when a key is lost the lock will be replaced. This prevents a person who comes into possession of a lost key subsequently gaining access. You’ll be charged a fee for a replacement lock.
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UNSW residences utilise strict security protocols. Building access is controlled with a secure keycard system, and 24-hour security services are vigilant in ensuring resident safety. Additionally, the SafeZone app allows you to report security incidents and request immediate assistance.
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UNSW recognises the importance of well-rounded student life. Our on-campus health clinic provides convenient access to medical care, while dedicated support services cater to mental health and overall wellbeing. We even have a Residential Wellbeing Officer available to offer personalised support.
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UNSW fosters a vibrant and inclusive residential community. From resident advisors to fellow students, you'll have ample opportunities to connect and build friendships that contribute to a positive and supportive living environment.
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For a comprehensive overview of UNSW's health and safety protocols, please visit the official website: link to UNSW Health and safety website: https://www.unsw.edu.au/planning-assurance/safety.
Remember: Your safety and wellbeing are our top priorities. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to your Resident Advisor or the UNSW Accommodation team. We're here to support you throughout your stay.
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Get Involved: UNSW boasts a vibrant student life! Explore the many clubs and societies catering to diverse interests. Attend orientation events, participate in hall activities, and connect with your Resident Advisor (RA) to discover upcoming social gatherings. Building a strong social network will enhance your overall experience.
Become a great flatmate: Respectful communication and consideration are key to harmonious apartment living. Establish ground rules with your flatmates regarding noise levels, guest policies, and cleaning duties. Be open to compromise, celebrate each other's successes, and be mindful of shared spaces.
Stay active: UNSW offers fantastic sporting facilities and a variety of recreational programs. Join an intramural sports team, hit the gym, or take a fitness class. Staying active is not only good for your physical health but can also be a great way to meet new people and de-stress from academics.
Find work: On-campus employment can provide valuable income and experience. UNSW offers casual positions in various departments, libraries, and cafes. Juggling work and studies can be challenging, but effective time management skills can help you succeed in both areas. Consider your workload and choose a flexible on-campus job that complements your studies.
Utilise the Support Services Available!
UNSW offers a wealth of resources to support your academic and personal well-being. Don't hesitate to reach out to your live in support network if you need assistance or guidance. -
You can log all maintenance requests through the online Resident Portal. Issues are rated on severity, so if it’s a busy time, please bear with us. You can view the status of your request by logging on to the portal.
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Yes, in exceptional circumstances, seek authority for a guest or parent to share your room overnight.
For the Colleges, these requests should be submitted to the Dean and approved prior to your guest's stay - maximum 3 nights.
For the Apartments, you should contact the Student Accommodation office.
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Whether you’re living in a single room in one of the colleges or sharing a room in one of the apartments, you’ll undoubtedly be sharing common spaces with other people.
The best thing to do is to sit down with all of your flatmates when you move in, maybe over some pizza and organise a cleaning schedule. This way everyone knows their role/s from the get-go and there should hopefully be no surprises down the track. You can rotate the schedule and even take turns buying cleaning products.
If there are problems, the quickest way to solve them is to sit down and talk about it.
However, if you’re still having issues, you can either speak to your Community Assistants or contact the Student Accommodation office and we’ll try and help.
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You can have a chat with your Community Assistants in the first instance, or alternatively contact the Student Accommodation office and we’ll try and help.
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If a student is making too much noise late at night or early in the morning, in the first instance you can try knocking on their door and politely asking them to keep it down. You’ll probably find they weren’t aware of how loud they were.
If the noise persists, you can contact the resident staff member/community assistant on duty or if it’s out of hours, you can contact UNSW Security on +61 2 9385 6000.
You should make sure you follow-up any complaints by emailing the Student Accommodation office with any relevant details:
- Date and time of the incident;
- Unit the noise was coming from;
- Names of people involved;
- Type of noise; and
- What action you took.
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Students are required to comply with the wider UNSW Student Code of Conduct and the Rules of Occupancy which forms part of their licence agreement.
These policies are intended to ensure community standards of behaviour are observed at all times.
Mutual respect and consideration are promoted as basic values for life on campus.
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Invoices are sent to your UNSW student email address and/or your nominated email address as per the rent schedule.
You’re required to pay the outstanding amount by the due date each month.
The invoice will have details on payment options and methods.
Note: We do not accept Direct Debit payments
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The fees for all colleges and apartments include all utility bills - electricity, water, and internet (Wi-Fi).
The catered colleges (Basser, Goldstein, Philip Baxter, UNSW Hall, Fig Tree Hall and International House) have breakfast, lunch and dinner included in the fees.
Colombo House is self-catered.
Basser, Goldstein, Philip Baxter, Fig Tree Hall & UNSW Hall rooms are cleaned fortnightly.
Only the common areas of Colombo House and the Apartments are cleaned regularly.
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Your invoice will normally be for 4 weeks, however on occasion we need to adjust this depending on how many days in a month.
Please check your invoice carefully as it will always indicate the exact period it covers.
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Yes. Invoices are emailed out to you and you can also nominate an additional address other than your own, eg. your parents through the online Resident Portal.
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It’s your responsibility to ensure you’re able to make your payments on time.
In the unfortunate circumstance where this is not possible, you should contact the Student Accommodation office as soon as possible to discuss your circumstances and agree on a plan of action.
If your payment cannot be made due to international payment difficulties, contact the Student Accommodation office to discuss the matter and agree on a plan of action.
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Possibly, for the apartments. Although we can’t always guarantee you’ll get the same room, sometimes we need to move students around to maintain gender balances.
Rooms in the colleges are organised by the Deans and are at their discretion.
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Your check-out date can be found on your licence agreement emailed to you when you accepted your offer. Check-out time is 10:00AM for all Colleges and Apartments.
If you’d like to check-out before your official date, please email the Student Accommodation office.
We’ll inspect your room after you check out, so please make sure you clean everything thoroughly to avoid additional charges.
If we find anything to be in an unsatisfactory condition, you’ll be charged a cleaning or repair fee.
Cleaning
- Wipe over all surfaces including the wardrobe shelves, study desk and shelving above and inside the drawer;
- Vacuum thoroughly;
- Remove any rubbish and food waste;
- Remove all personal items; and
- Remove scuff marks from the walls or any marks on the carpet.
Bathrooms (if applicable)
- Wipe the shower unit and shower screen (the glass doors must be clear and free of soap scum);
- Clean the toilet;
- Clean the sink;
- Clean the mirror and shelf;
- Clean the tiles;
- Mop the floor; and
- Empty the wastebasket.
Mail
- For the colleges, check your pigeon-hole and remove any mail items;
- Re-direct your mail and packages to your new address.
Colombo House and Apartments
- Remove any food items from your allocated fridge, pantry and freezer spaces; and
- Ensure your locks are also removed from your allocated fridge, pantry and freezer spaces.
Keys
If you have keys that belong to the Accommodation (mailbox, room key, storage room key or mailbox key), please return this to the Accommodation Office reception desk during our opening hours. If you are returning this during out of office hours, please drop in the key box provided).
For College residents, you are not required to return your Student ID. Your room and building access will be deactivated upon your check out time.
If reception isn’t open, please place your keys/card in the drop box located outside our office.
If you only use your UNSW Student ID card to access your room, you don’t need to return this – access to your room will automatically be cancelled at 10:00AM on your check-out date.
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Unfortunately no, due to security reasons and room allocations.
Once you’ve checked out, anything left will be deemed as rubbish and removed as we need to get the room ready for the next resident. An item removal charge may apply if we need to remove any leftover belongings. Please remember to take everything with you when you leave.
However, if your contact is for the full year, 52 weeks, you’re usually allowed to remain in the same room/apartment.
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Possibly. This is why it’s very important to complete your room inventory when you first move in.
For health and safety reasons, we ask you don’t make any repairs yourself. You can raise a maintenance request through the online Resident Portal.
Once logged, the request will go directly to our maintenance team. Issues are rated on severity, so if it’s a busy time, please bear with us.
You can view the status of your request by logging on to the portal.
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We do not provide references, however we are happy to provide you with an account transaction statement that can be used as a rental ledger, and a proof of residency letter. Just contact the Student Accommodation office with your request.
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