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Student Accommodation FAQ

UniLodge @ RMIT Bundoora - Walert House
Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions about living at UniLodge @ RMIT Bundoora - Walert House?

Find out everything you need to know about our student accommodation by checking out our most frequently asked questions.

Whether you’re unsure about moving logistics, living costs, leases, or another aspect about of living in UniLodge student apartments, these questions include all the essential information you’ll need before moving in. If you have a question that you don't see answered, feel free to contact us directly.

Do I need to be a student to live at Walert House?

Yes, Walert House is purpose-built student accommodation, so all residents must be enrolled at a university or registered tertiary institution. You will need a current and valid Student ID and proof of enrolment from the time you apply for your room and throughout your entire stay, as per the dates on your contract. 

Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate non-students or former students. However, you can explore alternative accommodation options for non-students through the link below: 

Non- Students 

What is a security deposit?

A security deposit is similar to a bond and is a payment to cover any potential damage or non-compliance with the residence agreement.

The security deposit is returned to you at the end of your agreement, provided you have left the apartment in the condition that it was in when you entered (minus fair wear and tear) and there are no outstanding fees on your account or any additional cleaning or rubbish removal charges.

When are residence fees due?

Residence fees must be paid two weeks in advance. You can set up a direct debit with UniLodge to have fees deducted fortnightly from your account. Alternatively, you can pay via EFTPOS at reception, bank transfer, or our secure payment portal, Novatti.

 

When should I apply for the following year?

We typically open applications for the next year between late October and early November. Keep an eye on our website around that time. Alternatively, you can email us closer to October to join our Expression of Interest list, and we’ll notify you when applications open.

I’m not entirely sure which type of accommodation suits me best. What kinds of rooms are available?

We offer a range of room types to meet different needs. You can choose from standard, large, extra-large, and accessible studios, as well as multi-share apartments with 3 or 4 bedrooms, including accessible options. Our most popular options are the standard studios and 4-bedroom multi-share apartments. For more details and to explore these room types, you can check out our website gallery or arrange a property tour, depending on availability.

What are your office hours?

Our office is open Monday to Friday from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (excluding public holidays) and summer reception hours.

Do you offer after hours check-in?

Yes, we do. To check in after hours, please contact our on-duty Residential Advisor. You can reach them at 0429 094 773 or via the intercom at the building entrance. They will provide you with a temporary key that grants access to your room and the building for the day. You’ll need to visit reception during business hours to complete your check-in.

Does everyone get accommodation or is there a chance of missing out?

Due to high demand, not everyone may receive a letter of offer for accommodation. We have a set number of beds available, and current residents are given priority to renew their contracts before new applications are considered. We process applications in the order they are received, and any remaining applicants will be placed on a waitlist. To maximise your chances of securing a spot, we recommend applying as soon as applications open.

Are meal plans included with my accommodation?

At UniLodge @ RMIT Bundoora Walert House, meal plans are not included with the accommodation.

What is the process for arranging an after-hours check-in?

Please inform us of your after-hours arrival details during business hours, so we can notify the on-duty Residential Advisor. You will need to visit reception during business hours to complete the formal check-in process.

 

What should I do if I get locked out?

 If you get locked out, please visit the reception staff during office hours for assistance. If it's after hours, contact the duty Residential Advisor. Note that a $10 lockout fee applies outside of office hours.

Do I need to arrange my own contents insurance?

Yes, you will need to organise your own contents insurance to cover your personal belongings, as UniLodge does not provide this coverage.

Is housekeeping provided?

Housekeeping is not provided; residents are responsible for cleaning their own rooms. However, you can borrow a vacuum cleaner from the customer service desk if needed. 

Where can I do my laundry?

Free laundry facilities are available 24/7 on Level 4. 

Do you offer transportation from the airport?

Yes, if you’re an international student at RMIT University arriving at Melbourne International Airport, you can arrange a free transfer (up to $100) to UniLodge @ RMIT Bundoora - Walert House. For more details and to organize your transfer, please click here.

Are pets allowed?

Unfortunately, pets are not permitted at UniLodge @ RMIT Bundoora - Walert House. 

Is there a fitness centre in the building?

There is no fitness centre in the building, but the RMIT Sports Centre, which is within walking distance from UniLodge @ RMIT Bundoora - Walert House, offers fitness facilities.

To find out more about the details click here.

How do I reserve a room?

To reserve a room, submit an online application through our website. After receiving your application, we will send you a Letter of Offer.

To accept the offer, you’ll need to fill in your details, sign the agreement through the Portal linked in the Letter of Offer, and pay a security deposit equivalent to four weeks of Residence Fees, as well as your first four weeks of Residence Fees in advance. This must be completed prior to check-in.

If you require any additional information, please feel free to contact us.

What types of contracts are available?

We offer three types of contracts: Full Year (January-January), Academic Year (January-December), and Semester agreements (January-July or July-December).

What does my rent include?

Your rent covers a fully furnished apartment, all utilities, unlimited internet and Wi-Fi, access to common facilities, and participation in our Residential Life Program.

Is there parking available?

Yes, there is a designated parking area for residents.

To use this parking, you need to purchase a permit through RMIT University and provide proof of purchase to UniLodge @ RMIT Bundoora – Walert House.

How is my mail handled?

 We accept letters and packages on your behalf.

 For letters, we do not notify residents individually due to the volume received, but we will periodically alert you when your letterbox is full. If you are expecting a letter, please feel free to check with reception during office hours.

 For packages, you will receive an email from reception when a package is ready for pickup.

What items should I bring or purchase before moving in that aren't provided in the apartment or available for purchase at UniLodge?

Your room will be furnished with a bed, mattress, desk, and chair.

You will need to bring your own:
Basic bedding (available for purchase as Bed and Bath Essentials on the UniLodge @ RMIT Bundoora- Walert House website).

Cutlery and crockery (available for purchase as Kitchen and Dining Essentials on the UniLodge @ RMIT Bundoora- Walert House website).

Cleaning products.

Personal belongings.

For multi-share apartments, you may want to wait until you arrive to purchase shared items like kettles or toasters.

What size is my bed?

  • 3-4 Bedroom Multi-Share Apartments (Standard) – Long-single
  • 3 Bedroom (Accessible), Studio Standard and Studio Accessible – King Single
  • Studio Large – Double
  • Studio Extra Large - Queen

How close is the nearest supermarket?

Uni Hill Shopping Centre is on the other side of campus and just across Plenty Road.

It features a Coles, multiple locations to dine out and a factory outlet (DFO) for clothing, bedroom and bathroom essentials.

Can I change apartments/rooms after moving in?

Yes, you can move to a different apartment or room, but a $100 room move fee applies. Please contact us to check availability and arrange the move.

Can I move out at any time?

To terminate your agreement early, you must provide 28 days' notice, continue paying fees during this period, and pay a departure cleaning fee of $130 and an early termination fee equivalent to two weeks of residence fees. Additionally, you must find a replacement to take over your agreement.

Is there extra storage outside my apartment?

Limited storage for bulky items like suitcases is available on a first-come, first-served basis. If no storage is available, you will need to use a local storage service provider.

How do I connect the internet/phone?

There is no phone in the room. The internet is provided by RMIT University, RMIT students can log in to the RMIT network using their student log-in credentials.

Non-RMIT students will be issued with log-in credentials for the duration of their stay, or they can use the eduroam network (if their institution has access to it).

Please refer to the RMIT ITS troubleshooting guide if you are having issues with connection of your internet, otherwise RMIT ITS can be contacted between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Is wireless internet available?

Yes, we offer unlimited Wi-Fi throughout the building.

How much is the security deposit?

The security deposit is equivalent to four weeks of residence fees.
 

What is a Condition Report?

Upon arrival you will receive a ‘Condition Report’, which is a record of the general condition of the property, including fittings and fixtures. You will be given this report when you check-in and collect your keys.

You must return the report, along with any notes and/or photos, to UniLodge within three (3) business days of moving in and you should keep a copy of the ‘Condition Report’ until the end of the agreement.

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 at the end of the agreement.

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

Your security deposit and residence fees are separate payments. You are required to pay rent in the specified way up to and including the date of your departure.

What should I do 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 agreement.

UniLodge will conduct a departure inspection to ensure that you have fully vacated the apartment before we check you out.

You will also need to complete the departure form via the Portal, so that we can refund your security deposit, pay a departure cleaning fee of $130 and return your keycard. We aim to have security deposits refunded within 20 business days.

Further Resident Information

The Resident Handbook is designed to help you to get to know the building and familiarise yourself with your rights and responsibilities as a resident.

We hope this Handbook will prove useful to you in answering any questions you have and assisting you with the most common concerns you may have.