Australia’s rental market has been facing unprecedented challenges, with rising rents and a shortage of affordable housing. A common misconception is that international students are a primary driver of this crisis. However, a closer examination of the data tells a different story. Let’s debunk some of the biggest myths surrounding international students and their role in the housing market.
Myth 1: International Students Are the Main Reason for Soaring Rent Prices
Many believe that the influx of international students is driving up rental prices, but statistics tell a different story. According to recent reports, international students make up only about 4% of renters in Australia, while non-students account for nearly 90%. Additionally, in 73% of Local Government Areas (LGAs), international students represent less than 1% of tenants. The rental crisis is instead fueled by factors such as population growth, inflation, housing supply shortages, and restrictive zoning laws (News.com.au, 2025).
Myth 2: International Students Are Displacing Local Renters
Another misconception is that international students are pushing Australian renters out of the housing market. However, data suggests otherwise. In most areas, the presence of international students in the rental market is minimal. Only in 2% of LGAs do international students make up more than 10% of tenants. The reality is that the rental shortage stems from broader economic and policy-related issues rather than competition from students (The Australian, 2025).
Myth 3: The Rise in Student Visas Directly Correlates with Rent Hikes
From December 2019 to December 2023, Australia saw a 30% increase in median weekly rent. However, during this same period, student visa arrivals actually declined by 13%. This discrepancy highlights that rising rents are being driven by factors such as demand exceeding supply, rising interest rates, and short-term rental platforms reducing long-term housing availability—not by international students.
What’s the Real Problem?
Instead of blaming students, policymakers should focus on key solutions, including:
- Increasing investment in affordable and social housing.
- Encouraging the development of more purpose-built student housing (PBSH).
- Reforming zoning laws to allow for higher-density housing development.
- Regulating short-term rental markets (such as Airbnb) to increase long-term rental availability.
Stay Informed: YouTube Channels Covering Australia’s Rental Crisis
For those looking to stay updated on the latest developments in the rental crisis, these YouTube channels provide valuable insights:
- ABC News Australia – In-depth analysis of the housing market and economic trends.
- 7NEWS Australia – Regular reports on rental market shifts and tenant rights.
- The Guardian Australia – Investigative journalism covering housing policies and affordability issues.
- Aus Property Investors – Discussions on real estate trends, property investment, and rental market conditions.
- Boom Bust Boom – Explains economic and housing market trends in an easy-to-understand format.
International students are a crucial part of Australia’s economy and cultural diversity. Rather than being scapegoated, the focus should shift towards addressing systemic housing issues with effective and inclusive policies.nd implement meaningful policies that benefit all renters.