University property sell-offs heighten ‘dire’ housing shortage as students return to Australia

International student accommodation costs of up to $900 a week for one-bed rentals are an ‘absolute scandal’ and ‘it’s going to be an impossible situation’ for many, an expert says. Photograph: Bloomberg/Getty Images

Universities have failed incoming international students and exacerbated problems for those already struggling to find a place to live by selling off student accommodation to private providers during the Covid period, student advocates say.

About 40,000 international students are expected to rush to Australia in time for first-semester classes, after the Chinese government on Monday announced a snap ban in recognising online degrees obtained from foreign institutions. Students unable to access visas, flights or accommodation can seek an exemption from the ban but only after their degree is completed.