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Student Accommodation FAQ

La Trobe University - Orde House
Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply to stay at a Living at La Trobe property?

Eligibility criteria: All Students aged 18 and over, who are enrolled in a La Trobe University (or La Trobe College Australia, RMIT University) course of study are eligible to apply to live at Living at La Trobe.

If I wanted to break my lease, what are the costs associated with this?

If you wish to terminate your lease early, you must submit an early termination request. Approval of this request may include cancellation fees equivalent to four (4) weeks of rent, unless sufficient evidence is provided to waive the fee.

What do I need to buy before I can move in?

Your room comes furnished with a king single bed, mattress, desk, and chair. You’ll need to bring your own linen and personal items. 

In self-catered residences, bring your own cookware and utensils for the shared kitchen, where you’ll have storage space. 

Kettles, toasters, and hot plates are only allowed in kitchen areas for safety reasons. 

I am vacating, can I use the Bond for my last month's rent?

No, you cannot as your bond and rent are separate payments. You are required to pay rent in the specified way up to and including the date of your departure. 

How close is the nearest supermarket?

The closest supermarket is the Kennington Village Woolworths, located at 150-180 Condon Street. This is a short walk or car trip, or you can catch the local bus lines 61 or 70. 

What happens when I vacate?

You need to leave your apartment clean and tidy in the same condition as when you arrived, ensure all personal items have been removed and report any damage that may have been caused during your tenancy. This allows for a speedy bond resolution.

As a final step, you will need to complete a Bond Refund Form on the Living at La Trobe Portal and nominate the bank account you would like your bond deposit refunded back into. 

If I really want to move apartments/rooms after I move in - is that possible?

If you wish to move to another residence you will need to submit a transfer request. (Note: these transfer requests are subject to availability and once approved require an $85.00 transfer fee for cleaning and administration costs.)

How do I receive my Bond back?

Once the resident has vacated and completed a Bond Refund Form, UniLodge will conduct a final inspection of the residence for any damage incurred or cleaning that may be required. Any of these charges will be deducted from the resident’s bond and the remaining amount refunded back to the nominated bank account. 

Who do I contact in an emergency or after hours?

Please contact the Night Manager on duty on 0407 270 540.

How do I reserve a room?

Complete an online application through our Living at La Trobe Portal: https://ltu.starrezhousing.com/StarRezPortalX. Please note, in order to accept the offer, you will be required to pay the current bond deposit as per the Rules of Residence. Need more information? Contact our team! 

Can I move out at any time?

When considering the premature termination of your Residential Agreement, the following payments are required prior to vacating, as outlined by the Rules of Residence: 

A cancellation fee of 28 days rent
All outstanding debts and fees.

What kind of contracts does Living at La Trobe offer?

20-week, 41-week and 52-week contracts are available, commencing in February and July.

Is there extra storage outside my apartment?

There is no additional storage outside of your room. If you have items you wish to store you will need to contact a local storage service provider.

What does my rent include?

A fully furnished apartment, all utilities are included, access to unlimited internet and WIFI and use of our common room facilities. 

How do I connect the internet/phone?

There is no phone in the room. For Internet, you can connect to the local Eduroam network using your La Trobe University login. If you have difficulty accessing the WIFI, you can contact La Trobe Ask ICT.

How do I pay the bond?

You are required to pay the bond deposit when accepting your letter of offer. Need more information? Contact our team!

Do you have car parking facilities?

La Trobe University offers parking across campus, including near accommodation. A parking permit is required Monday to Friday, 8am–5pm. Parking is free outside these hours. 

Is wireless internet available?

Yes, we have unlimited WIFI at this property and wireless internet through the building. 

When do I pay my rent?

Each resident has access to a residential portal where rent can be paid. Alternatively, payments can be made at reception using a debit or credit card. Rent is charged fortnightly on Mondays, according to the rental calendar. 

What is a Bond?

A bond is a security payment of $1,000.00 that ensures residents fulfill the terms of their residence agreement. This is not equivalent to rent.

Can I receive mail and packages whilst staying at the property?

Only letters can be collected from the reception office. Parcels must be collected from Australia Post in the Agora.

What is a Condition Report?

Upon arrival we must prepare a ‘Condition Report’, which records the property’s general condition, including fittings and fixtures and present you with two copies when you complete your check-in process.  Review and, if necessary, add your comments to the ‘Condition Report’.  You must return the report to UniLodge within three business days of moving in and you should keep a copy of the ‘Condition Report’ until the end of the tenancy. 

The ‘Condition Report’ is a very important document, as it can be used as evidence if there is a dispute about who should pay for cleaning, damage, or replacement of missing items, particularly at the end of a tenancy. 

You may want to take photos of your apartment at the start of your tenancy to further show the condition. 

The owner may claim some or the entire bond for cleaning, damage, or replacement of missing items at the end of your tenancy. If the ‘Condition Report’ stated that the work was required at the start of the tenancy, or the items were not listed, it can help you prove the bond should be returned to you. 

Check out this handy guide - Resident guide condition reports.

Further Resident Information