The Property Council of Australia has raised concerns about the potential lag in student accommodation supply in Brisbane as demand continues to increase, particularly in light of a tight rental market. They indicate that while there is a 'decent' supply of purpose-built student accommodation being planned, there is a critical need for reforms in tenancy laws to stimulate further development and make accommodations more accessible.

Current student experiences underscore the pressing need for affordable housing, as many young individuals, particularly those in part-time jobs or relying on income support, struggle to find suitable and affordable rentals. The competition in the rental market has made securing even shared housing increasingly difficult, leaving many students at a disadvantage as they seek to balance their studies and financial pressures.

Bridgette Buckley, a university student who has managed to secure accommodation through family connections, provides insight into the struggles faced by her peers. Her situation highlights the privilege of having familial support in a challenging rental environment, emphasizing that many others are left to grapple with escalating rents and limited options. This narrative portrays a broader need for policy intervention to enhance the student housing landscape in Brisbane, which is becoming increasingly vital as the city’s educational institutions continue to attract a growing number of students.