Swinburne University of Technology's main campus sits in Hawthorn, a leafy inner-eastern suburb of Melbourne about seven kilometres from the city centre. Where you live shapes the largest part of any student budget, so this guide compares the basic weekly cost of every accommodation type near the campus using official Swinburne and Australian Government figures.
- Swinburne's official accommodation page lists managed on-campus residences at A$315 to A$460 per week with bills included, share-house rooms at A$250 to A$450 per week, and solo rentals at A$400 to A$800 per week
- Homestay starts from A$410 per week plus a one-time A$350 booking fee covering a furnished room, utilities and meals.
What Are the Accommodation Options Near Swinburne?
Students near Swinburne's Hawthorn campus choose between four main options: university-managed on-campus residences, purpose-built student apartments such as UniLodge Vivida next door, shared rental houses, and homestay with a local family. Each suits a different budget, and Swinburne's official accommodation page compares costs and inclusions for every type.
The right choice balances price against convenience. On-campus and purpose-built apartments cost more per week but bundle bills, internet and a short walk to class, while share houses are cheaper yet add utility costs and a commute. Homestay suits younger or first-time arrivals who want meals and support included.
10 Reasons to Study in AustraliaRead →How Much Does On-Campus Accommodation Cost?
Swinburne's managed student residences cost between A$315 and A$460 per week according to the university's official compare-your-options page. The rent is all-inclusive, covering electricity, gas, water, internet and laundry facilities, with furnished rooms. Options range from single college rooms to shared apartments and private studios, all within walking distance of the Hawthorn campus.
| Accommodation Type (2026) | Weekly Cost (AUD) | Bills Included |
|---|---|---|
| On-campus managed residence | A$315-A$460 | Yes |
| Purpose-built apartment (UniLodge) | A$350-A$650 | Yes |
| Homestay | From A$410 (plus A$350 booking fee) | Yes, meals too |
| Share house room | A$250-A$450 | No |
| Solo rental apartment | A$400-A$800 | No |
How Much Is Private and Shared Rental?
Renting privately near Hawthorn costs roughly A$400 to A$800 per week for a solo apartment, while a room in a share house runs about A$250 to A$450 per week, per Swinburne's official figures. These rentals are usually unfurnished and exclude bills, so budget an extra A$20 to A$40 weekly for utilities.
Sharing a house with other students is the most budget-friendly route and is common in Hawthorn, Glenferrie and nearby Kew and Camberwell. Expect a refundable bond, usually around four weeks of rent, plus your own furniture and a separate internet plan unless the lease states otherwise.
What Does Homestay Cost Near Swinburne?
Homestay places you with a local family and starts from A$410 per week on Swinburne's official page, with a one-time, non-refundable booking fee of A$350. The weekly rate includes a furnished room, utilities and meals. Homestay is mandatory for international students under 18 unless they live with an approved relative.
Which Purpose-Built Student Apartments Are Nearby?
UniLodge runs purpose-built student accommodation right beside the Hawthorn campus, including Student Living Vivida next door and Riversdale a short walk away. These offer self-contained studio and two-bedroom apartments with all-inclusive bills, study spaces and on-site staff. They sit in the broader Melbourne student-apartment band of roughly A$350 to A$650 per week.
Purpose-built apartments cost more than a share house but remove the hassle of setting up utilities, furniture and a long lease. They are popular with international students arriving alone because they offer social spaces, security and flexible contracts aligned to the academic year.
How Can You Budget for Accommodation in 2026?
Beyond rent, factor in a bond of about four weeks for private rentals, the A$350 homestay booking fee, and weekly bills of A$20 to A$40 where not included. The official Study Australia cost-of-living calculator, updated November 2025, helps Melbourne students model total weekly spending across rent, food and transport before committing.