Student Accommodation near Australian Catholic University (ACU)

Founded in 1991, the Australian Catholic University (ACU) has a history rooted in the amalgamation of several Catholic tertiary institutions dating back to the late 19th century. It is a public university with a strong reputation for its focus on ethics, social justice, and community engagement, underpinned by its Catholic ethos.

Reputation and Ranking: ACU is recognized both nationally and internationally. Key rankings as of early 2025 include:

• QS World University Rankings: #901-950 (2025)
• Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings: #401-500 (2024), #401 (2025)
• US News & World Report - Best Global Universities: #362 (2024)
• QS World University Rankings by Subject: Notably ranked #44 for Nursing (2025) and #22 globally for Theology, Divinity and Religious Studies.
• Times Higher Education Subject Rankings: Top 150 for Arts and Humanities, top 200-250 for Clinical and Health, and top 126 for Psychology (2025).
• Research Quality: Ranked 1st in Australia and 24th worldwide for research quality.
• Graduate Employability: High graduate employment rates, with 95% of undergraduate and postgraduate coursework graduates employed.

Why it’s a Top Choice for Students:

Academics: ACU offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across various disciplines, including health sciences (especially nursing and allied health), education, business, humanities, and theology. The university emphasizes practical learning, often incorporating work placements and community engagement into its programs. It is particularly well-regarded for its teaching quality and student support.

Research: ACU is committed to research that addresses real-world issues and has achieved strong rankings in research quality and impact, particularly in fields like psychology, theology, and education.

Global Recognition: While rooted in Australia, ACU has a growing international profile, with partnerships with over 200 institutions worldwide and a campus in Rome, Italy. Its strong performance in specific subject areas contributes to its global academic standing. The high graduate employment rates also indicate the practical relevance and international recognition of ACU qualifications.

Libraries: Each main campus has a library with extensive collections of books, journals, and online resources. They also offer study spaces, computer access, and research support. For example, the McAuley Library at the Brisbane campus and theконом Library at the Melbourne campus are significant resources.

Labs: Depending on the courses offered at each campus, there are specialized laboratories for sciences, health sciences (including simulation labs for nursing and allied health), and computer studies.

Student Unions: Each campus has a student representative council or student union (e.g., the Australian Catholic University National Students' Association - ACUNSA) that advocates for students and organizes events and activities.

University Societies and Clubs: ACU has a wide range of student-run clubs and societies catering to various academic, cultural, social, and sporting interests. These provide opportunities for students to connect with peers who share similar passions. Joining these clubs is a great way to enhance the university experience outside of the classroom.

Student Events: Throughout the academic year, ACU and its student associations organize a variety of events, including orientation programs, social gatherings, cultural festivals, guest lectures, and sporting competitions. Keep an eye on the ACU Student Life portal for upcoming events.

Other Facilities: Many campuses also feature:

• Cafeterias and Dining Areas: Providing a range of food and beverage options.
• Gyms and Sports Facilities: Encouraging physical activity and well-being.
• Chapels or Reflection Spaces: Reflecting the university's Catholic identity.
• Health Services: Offering basic medical care and advice.
• Multi-faith spaces: Catering to the diverse religious backgrounds of students.

Sydney (North Sydney, Strathfield, Blacktown): Sydney has an extensive public transport network including trains, buses, and ferries. Opal cards are used for ticketing across all modes.

Melbourne (Fitzroy, Ballarat): Melbourne has a comprehensive network of trams, trains, and buses. Myki cards are used for ticketing. Ballarat has a more regional bus and train network.

Brisbane (Banyo): Brisbane's public transport includes trains, buses, and ferries. Go Cards are used for ticketing.

Canberra: Canberra primarily relies on buses, operated by Transport Canberra. MyWay cards or contactless payment options are available.

Adelaide: Adelaide has a network of buses, trams, and trains. MetroCards or contactless payment can be used.

Rome: Rome has an extensive metro, bus, and tram system. Various ticketing options are available.

Parks and Gardens: Many ACU campuses are located in or near cities with beautiful parks and gardens, offering green spaces for relaxation and recreation. For example, near the Melbourne (Fitzroy) campus, you'll find the Fitzroy Gardens and Carlton Gardens.

Cultural Institutions: Depending on the city, there might be museums, galleries, and historical sites within easy reach. Canberra (Signadou) is close to national cultural institutions like the National Gallery of Australia and Parliament House.

Shopping and Dining Precincts: University campuses are often located near areas with cafes, restaurants, and shops, providing students with places to socialize and access daily necessities. For instance, the North Sydney campus is in a business precinct with various dining options.

Sports and Entertainment Venues: Depending on the city, there could be stadiums, entertainment centers, or other attractions nearby. The Strathfield campus in Sydney is close to the Sydney Olympic Park.

Religious and Historical Sites: Given ACU's Catholic identity, there may be significant churches or historical religious sites in the vicinity of some campuses.

Sydney (North Sydney Campus):

• North Sydney: Very close to the campus, offering convenience but can be relatively more expensive. Good transport links.
• Neutral Bay: A short bus ride to North Sydney, offering a mix of apartments and houses, with cafes and amenities.
• Crows Nest: Located on the train line to North Sydney, with a vibrant atmosphere and various housing options.
• McMahons Point: Close to the campus, often with scenic views, but can be pricier. Excellent ferry and train access.

Sydney (Strathfield Campus):

• Strathfield: The suburb where the campus is located, offering a range of apartments and houses. Good transport links and amenities.
• Homebush: A short distance from Strathfield, with increasing student accommodation options and good transport.
• Burwood: Another nearby suburb with a significant student population, offering various housing choices and transport links.

Melbourne (Melbourne Campus - Fitzroy):

• Carlton: Directly adjacent to Fitzroy, very popular with students due to its proximity to the university and the University of Melbourne. Offers a range of shared houses and apartments.
• Collingwood: A vibrant suburb within walking or tram distance of Fitzroy, known for its cafes, bars, and more affordable housing options.
• North Melbourne: Located close to the city and with good transport links to Fitzroy. Offers a mix of housing options.
• Brunswick: A bit further out but easily accessible by tram, known for its diverse community and more affordable rents.

Brisbane (Brisbane Campus - Banyo):

• Nundah: The suburb adjacent to Banyo, offering a range of housing options and local amenities.
• Virginia: Another nearby suburb with relatively affordable housing and good transport links.
• Northgate: Located on the train line, providing easy access to the Banyo campus.

Canberra Campus:

• Bruce: The suburb where the campus is located, offering student accommodation and private rentals.
• Belconnen: A major town center close to Bruce, with a wide range of apartments and amenities. Good bus connections.
• Lyneham: A nearby suburb with a mix of houses and apartments, accessible by bus.

Adelaide (Adelaide Leadership Centre): As this is primarily a leadership center, student housing is less of a primary concern. However, if students are undertaking longer programs or study in Adelaide, the following areas are generally student-friendly:

• Adelaide CBD: Offers various student accommodation options and excellent transport links to other parts of the city.
• North Adelaide: Close to the city center and universities, with a mix of housing and amenities.
• Unley and Parkside: Inner-city suburbs with good transport links and a range of housing options.

Book with House of Student and become a part of the largest global community of students accomodation with us. Know why students love us!

Safe Spaces, No Exceptions
Student-only, fully vetted homes

365 days, 24/7 genuine support
Your concierge aka ivey.ai and our global team of real humans are there to help you.

Lowest Prices, Best Deals Guaranteed
No hidden costs or platform fee

Thrive Inside Out
Mental health & wellbeing support always available throughout your tenure.

Grow Anywhere
More than 1 million student rooms across 1000+ student cities
Reserve now.

Pay Later, Free Cancellations
Change of mind? No questions asked cancellations within the specified period