The Iglu Guide | Blog
Living with roommates: A survival guide for Aussie students
Living with roommates is a rite of passage for most Aussie students. Whether you’re moving into shared student accommodation for the first time or switching flatmates mid-year, it’s an experience that can be equal parts exciting, challenging and rewarding. From learning how to share your space to figuring out what makes your new housemates tick, there’s plenty to navigate.
The good news? With a little communication, compromise and humour, you can make the most of it. Consider this your go-to guide to surviving – and thriving – in shared student living.
Getting off to a good start
First impressions matter, and the best way to avoid friction later is to set clear expectations from the beginning. Spend a little time getting to know each other and agree on the basics – things like cleaning schedules, noise levels, guests and shared costs.
A few ground rules go a long way in keeping the peace. Think about how you’ll divide chores, handle bills and use communal spaces. It’s also worth discussing boundaries early on – like whether you’re happy to share food or prefer to keep your shelf separate.
Starting off with open communication shows respect and sets the tone for the months ahead. A well-organised household makes everyone’s life easier and is one of the simplest ways to be a considerate housemate.
Navigating different personalities
No two people live exactly the same way, and that’s half the adventure. You might be sharing with a neat freak, a night owl, a chatterbox or someone who’s constantly on the go. Learning to adapt to different habits and personalities is part of the experience – and it can teach you a lot about patience and empathy.
Try to approach differences with curiosity instead of frustration. If someone’s way of doing things doesn’t match yours, have a conversation before it becomes an issue. You’ll often find small compromises make a big difference.
It also helps to appreciate the upside of those differences: the organised one keeps the kitchen clean, the social one brings people together, and the calm one helps balance it all out. Living with a mix of personalities can make your student accommodation feel more like a community.
Handling conflict and challenges
Even the best housemates clash occasionally. Maybe it’s over dishes left in the sink, borrowed clothes, or late-night noise. Whatever the issue, the key is to stay calm and talk things through before resentment builds up.
If something’s bothering you, address it directly but respectfully. Pick a good time to chat – not mid-argument – and focus on finding a solution rather than assigning blame. A little empathy goes a long way in keeping the peace.
Conflict is normal, but it doesn’t have to define your experience. The way you handle disagreements can actually strengthen your communication skills and make you a better roommate (and future co-worker).
The upside of shared living
While shared living can test your patience at times, it also offers some of the best parts of student life. You’ll build friendships, share laughs and learn valuable life skills that go beyond the classroom.
Living with others teaches you how to collaborate, compromise and problem-solve – all essential skills for your career and personal life. You’ll pick up lessons in time management, teamwork and responsibility, whether it’s coordinating cleaning days or planning a group dinner.
And while you might have heard a few myths about shared student accommodation, the truth is that it’s one of the easiest ways to connect with people, find support and create a sense of belonging during your studies.
Tips for long-term survival
Here are a few practical ways to keep things running smoothly:
- Respect each other’s space – alone time is important for everyone.
- Communicate openly – don’t let small issues snowball.
- Share fairly – from chores to bills, everyone should contribute.
- Keep it tidy – a clean space helps everyone feel more at home.
- Have fun together – plan occasional movie nights or group meals to build connection.
Living with roommates is all about balance. When you respect each other’s boundaries while still making time to connect, you’ll create an environment that feels supportive and enjoyable for everyone.
While it isn’t always perfect, living in shared accommodation can be one of the most memorable and rewarding parts of university life. You’ll face challenges, share laughs, and maybe even make lifelong friends along the way.
So, embrace the chaos, keep an open mind and remember: every flatmate experience teaches you something new. With a little effort (and the occasional compromise), you’ll come out the other side with stories, skills and friendships that last well beyond graduation.
