[On-screen text Lester, International student. Lester is speaking to camera with a bookshelf in the background]

Lester: You've chosen the amazing state of Victoria for your international studies. Now it's time to make some big decisions about where you'd like to live. Firstly, it's time to choose a location. Victoria's capital city, Melbourne, is the ideal place for people who love the vibrancy of a big city.

[Lester in a park with city buildings in background, in a laneway, outside the State Library of Victoria]

As Australia's largest capital city, there are so many different places to live, and each one is unique. You can either live in the heart of the city, by the beach, walking distance from your campus, near parks and gardens...really, the options are endless!

[Scenes showing the city, bay areas, gardens and parkland]

In country Victoria, you'll find the perfect mix of life in Australia. Welcoming communities, coastal towns, natural beauty, and a relaxed lifestyle.

[Visuals of students standing next to the river, main street of country town, Geelong waterfront]

When it comes to making a decision, consider the atmosphere that you want, the education providers there, the cost of living, and the transport options.

If you need help in choosing the right location, chat to the team at the Study Melbourne Hub for their advice. Once you've chosen the location, now it's time to consider accommodation.

There are so many accommodation options for international students that suit your lifestyle and your budget. So, options include student accommodation, these are purpose-built residences for students to live in while they study.

[Lester walking streets of Melbourne, terrace houses]

Homestays - where you can live in with a local family in their house.

Residential colleges - these are university-owned residences for students on or near the campus; and private rentals where you can lease an apartment or house by yourself or with others.

While renting in Victoria, you'll enjoy the same basic rights and legal protections like anyone else.

[Visuals of high rise buildings, tram]

If you have any questions about your landlord, your rental rights, inspections, or applications, the Study Melbourne Hub team is here to help! If you're not sure about what kind of accommodation will suit you, take the Study Melbourne accommodation quiz. It will take into account your likes, your dislikes, and your lifestyle, and find the perfect future home for you.

[Student looking up accommodation quiz on laptop]

Or, if you would like to view your options in person, why not book a temporary accommodation, like a hotel, a hostel, or an Airbnb, and then start your search after you arrive.

[Lester in courtyard with trees, Study Melbourne Victoria logo]

[End transcript]