The Gold Coast isn’t just a holiday destination — it’s home to two major universities and a growing international student population. If you’ve ever dreamed of studying within walking distance of world-famous surf beaches, this is your place.
The Gold Coast Student Scene
Griffith University’s Gold Coast campus and Bond University attract over 15,000 international students. The accommodation market reflects the city’s dual identity as a tourist hotspot and education hub — there’s everything from high-rise Surfers Paradise apartments to quiet suburban sharehouses.
Southport — The Student Hub
Southport is the Gold Coast’s CBD and the epicenter of student life. Griffith University’s Gold Coast campus is here, along with the Gold Coast University Hospital (ideal for nursing and medical students).
- Studio apartments: AUD 350–480/week
- Shared apartments (room): AUD 180–280/week
- Walk to Griffith GC: 5–15 minutes
The Australia Fair shopping centre and the G:link light rail make Southport the most convenient base for students without a car.
Surfers Paradise — The Iconic Option
Living in Surfers is the Gold Coast fantasy — high-rise apartments with ocean views, 30 seconds from the sand. It’s pricier but the G:link connects you to Griffith in 15 minutes.
- Studio: AUD 400–580/week
- Shared (room): AUD 250–380/week
Robina & Varsity Lakes — Bond University Territory
Bond University sits in Robina, a master-planned suburb about 15 minutes inland from the beach.
Varsity Lakes
The closest suburb to Bond — specifically the “Varsity Towers” area near Lake Orr. Modern apartments, mostly owner-occupied or rented to students. Rooms AUD 200–320/week.
Robina Town Centre area
Near the major shopping centre and train station. Good bus connections to Bond. Rooms AUD 180–280/week.
Affordable Gold Coast Suburbs
Labrador & Biggera Waters
North of Southport, still on the Broadwater. Older apartment blocks at student-friendly prices. Rooms AUD 170–260/week.
Southport Park / Ashmore
Inland from Southport proper, more houses than apartments. Rooms AUD 160–250/week.
PBSA on the Gold Coast
| Provider | Location | Studio/week | Shared/week |
|---|---|---|---|
| UniLodge | Southport (Griffith) | AUD 320–480 | AUD 220–340 |
| Student One | Southport | AUD 350–500 | AUD 240–360 |
Before you land, sort your OSHC. Compare plans from all Australian providers.
The Lifestyle Factor
Gold Coast students get the best of both worlds: access to quality education plus a beach lifestyle that’s hard to match. Weekend activities include surfing lessons at Currumbin, hiking in Springbrook National Park, and the famous Wednesday and Friday markets at Miami Marketta. The weather is subtropical — warm year-round with a wet season in summer (December–February).
FAQ
Is the Gold Coast more expensive than Brisbane?
Housing is similar, but the Gold Coast has fewer budget options in the CBD area. Surfers Paradise pushes the average up. Southport and Labrador are comparable to Brisbane’s inner suburbs.
Do I need a car on the Gold Coast?
The G:link light rail runs from Helensvale to Broadbeach, covering the main student areas. A car is useful for exploring but not essential for day-to-day student life.
Can international students work on the Gold Coast?
Yes — the tourism and hospitality sector is huge. Cafes, restaurants, theme parks, and hotels are always hiring. Hourly casual rates start at AUD 29–35.