Exploring Melbourne: A Student's Guide to Living Near RMIT University

Exploring Melbourne: A Student s Guide to Living Near RMIT University I. Introduction Melbourne consistently ranks among the world s most liveable cities, a re...

Jul 20,2024 | Hellen

Exploring Melbourne: A Student's Guide to Living Near RMIT University

I. Introduction

Melbourne consistently ranks among the world's most liveable cities, a reputation that is particularly well-earned from a student's perspective. Its vibrant culture, diverse population, and strong focus on education create an ideal environment for learning and personal growth. For students of the (RMIT), the city transforms from a backdrop into an integral part of the educational experience. This guide focuses on the practicalities of life in the key areas surrounding RMIT's campuses: the dynamic Melbourne City (CBD) campus, the expansive Bundoora campus in the north, and the trendy Brunswick campus. Each suburb offers a distinct flavour of Melbourne living, catering to different preferences and budgets. This resource is tailored for new and prospective students—both domestic and international—who are navigating the exciting yet daunting transition to university life in a new city. We aim to provide a comprehensive overview that goes beyond the prospectus, covering everything from finding a roof over your head to discovering the city's hidden gems, ensuring you can hit the ground running from day one at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology.

II. Accommodation Options

Securing the right place to live is the first major step in settling into student life. The options vary significantly depending on which RMIT campus you'll be based at and your personal preferences for independence, community, and budget. For those seeking convenience and an instant social network, on-campus accommodation is a prime choice. RMIT offers several purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) buildings, such as RMIT Village in the city and the student apartments at Bundoora. These provide furnished rooms, often with meal plans, high-speed internet, and organised social events, though they come at a premium cost and high demand. Off-campus living offers greater freedom and variety. In the city, you'll find modern high-rise apartments, often shared among students to split costs. Suburbs like Carlton, Fitzroy, and North Melbourne are popular for their proximity to the city campus. Near Bundoora, suburbs like Macleod, Greensborough, and Reservoir offer more affordable houses and units, often with backyard space. Brunswick, already a campus location, is a hub for share houses, brimming with character in its Victorian terraces. Homestay programs, arranged through registered providers, place international students with local families, offering a supportive environment and deep cultural immersion. When searching, start early—ideally 2-3 months before semester begins. Utilise platforms like Flatmates.com.au, Fairy Floss Real Estate on Facebook, and the RMIT Student Housing service. Always inspect a property in person or via a reliable video call, understand your lease agreement (typically a fixed-term or periodic agreement under Victorian law), and budget for upfront costs like bond (security deposit, usually equivalent to one month's rent) and advance rent.

III. Transportation

Melbourne boasts an extensive and integrated public transport network, making it entirely possible to live without a car. The system is built around trains, trams, and buses, all operating under the myki ticketing system. Trams are iconic to Melbourne and are particularly useful for navigating the inner city and northern suburbs; the free City Circle Tram and the extensive network covering Brunswick are student favourites. Trains are faster for longer distances, connecting Bundoora to the city in about 40 minutes via the Mernda or Hurstbridge lines. Buses fill in the gaps, especially in Bundoora and the outer suburbs. For the active student, cycling is a fantastic and healthy option. Melbourne has a growing network of bike lanes, and RMIT provides end-of-trip facilities with showers and secure bike parking. Walking is often the best way to explore the dense, grid-like city centre. Financially, students are eligible for concession fares on public transport, which can save nearly 50% on travel costs. You must have a valid Victorian Student Concession Card linked to your myki. Many students opt for a yearly or semester myki pass for unlimited travel within selected zones. Key tips: always touch on and off with your myki (except on trams within the Free Tram Zone), download the PTV app for real-time updates, and be mindful that services can be less frequent on weekends and late at night, so plan ahead.

IV. Food and Dining

Melbourne is a global culinary capital, and as an RMIT student, you are at the epicentre of it. The areas around the campuses are veritable food paradises that cater to every taste and budget. For affordable daily eats, you cannot look past the city's laneways. Places like Degraves Street, Hardware Lane, and the myriad of food courts (especially the ones on Swanston Street) offer quick, delicious, and wallet-friendly meals from around the world, with many options under $15 AUD. Countless cafes and restaurants near all RMIT campuses offer student discounts—always carry your student ID and ask. The diverse culinary scene is staggering: from authentic Vietnamese pho in Richmond, Italian on Lygon Street in Carlton, Middle Eastern fare on Sydney Road in Brunswick, to high-end dining dotted throughout the city. For self-catering, supermarkets are plentiful. Major chains like Coles, Woolworths, and Aldi have multiple locations in the city (including a large Coles on Spencer Street) and in every suburb. For fresh, local produce at great prices, visit Queen Victoria Market (near the city campus) or the Preston Market (near Bundoora). Asian grocery stores, such as those in Box Hill or on Victoria Street, Richmond, are perfect for sourcing specialty ingredients. Budgeting for food is crucial; a mix of cooking at home and strategically enjoying cheap eats out will help your finances stretch further while letting you savour what Melbourne has to offer.

V. Entertainment and Recreation

Balancing study with leisure is vital, and Melbourne provides endless opportunities to unwind. The city is famously green, with parks and gardens serving as the city's lungs. Fitzroy Gardens, Flagstaff Gardens, and the Royal Botanic Gardens are perfect for picnics, jogging, or quiet study sessions outdoors. Near Bundoora, the vast Bundoora Park offers bushland, a farm, and sports facilities. Melbourne's cultural institutions are world-class and many offer free or discounted entry for students. The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), Melbourne Museum (next to the Carlton Gardens), and the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) at Federation Square are must-visits. The city's soul lives in its live music venues and theatres. Catch emerging bands at iconic pubs like The Tote in Collingwood or the Brunswick Hotel, or enjoy a major production at the Princess Theatre or the Arts Centre Melbourne. For sports fans, Melbourne is the sporting capital of Australia. Attending an Australian Rules Football (AFL) match at the MCG or Marvel Stadium, a cricket test in summer, or the Australian Open tennis is a quintessential local experience. RMIT's own sports facilities and clubs also provide great avenues for recreation and meeting people. Remember, exploring doesn't have to be expensive—many galleries, festivals, and public events are free, and simply wandering through neighbourhoods like Fitzroy, St Kilda, or the CBD laneways is entertainment in itself.

VI. Essential Services

Setting up your essential services smoothly will let you focus on your studies and exploration. For banking, all major Australian banks (Commonwealth Bank, ANZ, Westpac, NAB) have branches and ATMs throughout the city and near campuses. As an international student, you can typically open an account online before you arrive, then finalise it in-branch with your passport and proof of enrolment from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology. For healthcare, it's important to understand the system. All international students on a student visa must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). RMIT has on-campus medical clinics at the City and Bundoora campuses that bulk-bill (directly charge the insurer) for OSHC holders, making doctor visits affordable. For emergencies, public hospitals like The Royal Melbourne Hospital are nearby. Libraries are a student's sanctuary. Beyond RMIT's own extensive library network (the Swanston Academic Building is a standout), the State Library of Victoria is a magnificent public resource with vast collections and reading rooms. For shopping beyond groceries, Melbourne's retail landscape is diverse. From the high-end boutiques on Collins Street to the eclectic finds in Brunswick's Sydney Road, there's something for everyone. Major shopping centres like Melbourne Central (literally connected to RMIT buildings), Emporium Melbourne, and Northland (near Bundoora) house hundreds of stores under one roof for convenience.

• Key Banking Tip: Look for fee-free student transaction accounts.
• Medical Must-Do: Register with a local General Practitioner (GP) clinic soon after arrival.
• Study Spot Secret: Explore smaller public libraries in suburbs like Carlton or Brunswick for quiet, alternative study spaces.

VII. Safety and Security

Melbourne is generally a very safe city, but practicing common sense is key, as in any major urban area. General safety tips include being aware of your surroundings, especially at night, keeping valuables secure, and using well-lit, populated paths. Avoid walking alone late at night if possible; use public transport, a rideshare, or the RMIT Security escort service. For emergencies, the universal number is 000 (for police, fire, or ambulance). For non-urgent police matters, you can call 131 444. RMIT takes campus security seriously. The Safer Community Unit provides support and advice, and security officers patrol all campuses 24/7. You can contact them via the RMIT Security app, blue light emergency phones on campus, or by calling (03) 9925 3333. For international students, additional resources are available. RMIT's International Student Support team offers guidance on everything from visa issues to cultural adjustment. The Study Melbourne Student Centre in the city provides free, confidential support services and legal advice. It's also wise to register with your home country's embassy or consulate. Remember, your personal safety is paramount; don't hesitate to ask for help or report any concerns to university authorities or the police.

VIII. Conclusion

Embarking on your studies at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology is the beginning of an incredible chapter, set in one of the world's most engaging cities. From navigating the accommodation market in Brunswick, Bundoora, or the CBD, to mastering the tram network, savouring $10 lunches in hidden laneways, and cheering at a footy match, each experience will weave into your unique Melbourne story. To make the most of it, be proactive: join clubs and societies at RMIT to build your network, don't be afraid to explore neighbourhoods beyond your immediate vicinity, and maintain a healthy balance between academic commitments and city adventures. Melbourne will challenge and reward you in equal measure. For ongoing support, keep the following resources bookmarked: the official RMIT Student website, the Study Melbourne portal, and the Public Transport Victoria (PTV) journey planner. Welcome to Melbourne—your campus is the entire city. Embrace its energy, diversity, and opportunities, and you will find that your time here will shape not just your career, but your worldview.