Accommodation
ON Campus Accommodation
On campus accommodation is provided at:
- Casuarina campus
- Katherine campus
- Alice Springs campus
OFF Campus Accommodation
Link to StudyStays - online off-campus listing available to CDU staff and students.
The Off-Campus accommodation service is designed to assist new and continuing students and staff to find appropriate accommodation while studying or working at Charles Darwin University. We offer a FREE and confidential service providing information and advice on housing options, tenancy advice and support and assistance with accommodation problems.
Accommodation Services can provide you with information on the following:
- How to search for available accommodation in Darwin
- How to apply for accommodation
- How and when you can end your tenancy agreement
- Sharing accommodation
- Your rights and responsibilities during the tenancy period
The Accommodation Officer is happy to discuss your accommodation options but is unable to book or arrange accommodation on your behalf. If you require assistance, please contact Accommodation Services via email accommodation.assistance@cdu.edu.au or make an appointment by contacting Equity Services on 08 8946 6288.
Accommodation up to 20 minutes travelling time to the University includes the following suburbs: Wanguri, Tiwi, Casuarina, Brinkin, Nightcliff, Alawa, Coconut Grove and Rapid Creek.
For a list of rental properties available in Darwin please visit www.realestate.com.au to find listings with various agents and current prices on rental accommodation available.
If you would like to contact real estate agents directly you will find them in the Yellow Pages.
Students with Disabilities
Disability Services, HPA Disability Services, Mental Health – Team Health, Life Without Barriers, Somerville Community Services and Territory Care and Support Services are all available in Darwin to assist with accommodation options for people with disabilities..
Full Board or Home Stay
Home stay is a situation where students stay with families or individuals. You have your own furnished bedroom and the use of family living areas. Full board normally includes most meals together with the cost of electricity, gas and water. You pay separately for any telephone calls.
There is a high demand for rental accommodation in Darwin and, prior to commencing with CDU, it is strongly advisable to secure short term accommodation. To visit the home stay webpage, go to www.homestaynetwork.org or alternatively contact the Accommodation Officer for more information.
What is your situation?
- Budget/price range. Please be aware that rents in Darwin are generally higher than most places in Australia.
- Preferred locations close to the CDU campus include: Nightcliff, Casuarina, Tiwi, Coconut Grove, Rapid Creek, Alawa, North Lakes and Brinkin.
- Relocation to Darwin. When you are planning to move?
- Length of tenancy you require. For 6 or 12 months?
What you need to know?
One of the first rules for off campus accommodation is: do not pay for or sign a contract for accommodation unless you have seen the property first. Students who have ignored this have, at times, lost a considerable amount of money and may also find that the accommodation is not suitable for them.
The off campus accommodation available in Darwin is not controlled by Charles Darwin University. Quality, conditions and convenience will vary greatly. Also be aware of internet accommodation scams that are occurring. Accommodation Services provide a comprehensive service and it is far better for you to view the property yourself and meet the other students you may be living with.
When applying for off campus accommodation:
Do I need references to rent a place off campus? What if I don’t have any?
References will definitely help, especially if you want to rent a whole place rather than a room. Rental references in English (such as from previous landlords) may increase your chances of being accepted for a place if you apply. Remember, real estate agents WILL call your referees. If you do not have rental references, personal references are good too, such as from a previous employer.
Before your arrival to Darwin – How can I apply for off campus accommodation?
You will require temporary accommodation until you find permanent accommodation. All off campus accommodation is privately owned AND IS NOT CONTROLLED BY THE UNIVERSITY. Do not sign up for any accommodation without seeing it first and do not ask friends to get accommodation for you before you arrive. You may consider asking a friend to send you information and prices of accommodation prior to arrival to give you more of an idea, but do not commit to a property on a friend's advice.
Rental Contracts
Rent is to be kept in advance as set out in your Residential Tenancy Agreement (lease). You cannot make any deductions from the rent for any purpose, for example – any repairs in lieu of rent. You will be expected to pay a minimum of a fortnight's rent in advance, and to pay in periods of not less than one week.
Breaking a Lease Agreement
The tenant is responsible for and must pay rent until the property is re-let to a suitable tenant. The contract will be kept “on foot” and your notice to vacate does not in any way indicate a termination or repudiation of the Tenancy Agreement.
It is advisable to read the Tenancy Agreement and understand all the conditions outlined. Your Accommodation Officer can assist you if you are having difficulty in understanding the Tenancy Agreement.
Please Note: Charles Darwin University is not responsible for rental accommodation off campus.
