Living

Wollongong has something to offer everyone in terms of accommodation and lifestyle, from eating out and shopping, to getting involved with the community. See our tips for living in Wollongong.

Accommodation
Eating Out
Shopping
Community
Practical Tips

Accommodation

One of the most important decisions to make is where you will live during your time in Wollongong. You have several accommodation options.

Living@UOW

You can view videos of the University of Wollongong accommodation here.

The University of Wollongong (UOW) offers three accommodation options:

University Residences: Live in a community with academic support, pastoral care and the chance to mix with other residents.

University Apartments: A little more independence and small-group living in a furnished apartment shared with other students.

Homestay: Live with a local family, arranged through Australian Family Homestays.

Private

There are two styles of private rental properties: shared and single.

Occupants of shared accommodation usually divide household expenses such as telephone and electricity. UOW Accommodation Services can help students seeking private accommodation, and holds a database of available properties.

It is important you are aware of the basic rights and responsibilities of tenants before you agree to rent a property. The Office of Fair Trading Renting Guide contains this information.

Eating Out

Wollongong’s diverse multicultural population means the city’s restaurants, cafes and bars can cater to every palate. From inner-city dining to alfresco cafes and bars, Wollongong serves up the South Coast’s best seafood and produce, as well as flavours from as far as Europe, South America, the Middle East and Asia.

The city has a range of supermarkets stocking fresh produce, baked goods, canned and packaged goods, and non-food items such as cleaning and personal hygiene products. Most supermarkets are open 7am-midnight Monday-Saturday, and 7.30am-10pm Sunday.

Shopping

Crown Street Mall is Wollongong’s biggest shopping area, with Wollongong Central Shopping Centre, David Jones, Myer, Rebel Sport and more than 300 specialty stores. Stores are open 9am-5pm Monday-Friday, and 10am-4pm Saturday-Sunday. Some stores are open until 9pm on Thursday. Regional shopping centres are located at Corrimal, Figtree, Dapto and Warrawong.

Markets, supermarkets & street stalls

Wollongong Markets operate every Thursday and Saturday
Locally produced arts and crafts are on sale at the Coledale School Markets on the fourth Sunday of the month
Wollongong Produce & Creative Traders Market is on every Friday in Wollongong City Mall
See the City of Wollongong's Traditional Food Directory for where to buy foods from different cultures
Supermarkets: Woolworths – Coles – Aldi – Franklins – Bilo

Sydney

Only a short drive or quick ride on the train from Wollongong, Sydney has many good shopping precincts. Westfield Miranda, in Sutherland Shire, is close to public transport.