Affordable Housing for Employees

The University of Newcastle supports employees with relocation and housing facilitation measures, and salary packaging arrangements that help manage housing costs. These services can help eligible new and existing staff navigate the Newcastle housing market, meet certain relocation expenses and manage temporary accommodation costs.

Our approach combines practical assistance when employees move to the region with employment-related financial arrangements. Support depends on the circumstances of each appointment and the relevant eligibility requirements.

Relocation assistance and housing guidance

The University offers a Relocation Brochure for staff considering moves to Newcastle. Through our recruitment and relocation information, new employees can access advice about housing, schools and settling into the Hunter region. Relocation specialists can provide guidance and local information, while the University can assist with obtaining quotes from removal companies.

Staff relocating to the region are assisted with access to local housing market information and options to ease the transition. This is especially useful for staff moving from other Australian regions or overseas who need to identify suitable accommodation before commencing work.

Financial assistance with relocation

The University’s Talent, Recruitment and Appointment Policy in force during much of 2025 permitted relocation assistance for candidates, subject to consultation between the hiring unit and Human Resource Services. The University also states in its information for overseas recruits that it contributes to relocation costs and generally meets interview-related travel and accommodation costs for senior professional and academic candidates in relevant circumstances.

These arrangements can reduce some costs of moving for work, including temporary accommodation or transport where approved. They are not a general entitlement to subsidised rent or an offer of permanent housing for all University employees.

Salary packaging and living-away-from-home arrangements

The University’s Salary Packaging Policy approved on 26 May 2025 took effect on 17 June 2025. Under that policy, eligible staff could arrange salary packaging for living-away-from-home allowances and relocation expenses. These benefits were administered through the University’s nominated providers, including SalaryPlan for living-away-from-home and relocation expenses under the 2025 version of the policy.

The University’s staff salary-packaging guidance explains that employees who have moved from their usual place of residence for work may qualify for a living-away-from-home arrangement. Depending on individual circumstances and tax rules, approved expenditure can include qualifying temporary accommodation and relocation costs. The University’s salary-packaging user guide describes the relevant accommodation conditions and supporting documentation.

Salary packaging allows eligible staff to exchange part of their salary for approved benefits and may offer tax advantages. It does not, by itself, establish that the University offers below-market housing or pays a rent subsidy.

Supporting employees as they settle in

By combining practical housing information with eligible relocation contributions and housing-related salary-packaging options, the University helps employees manage the transition to working in Newcastle. The level of support depends on their appointment and individual circumstances, with arrangements provided in accordance with University policy.

These services offer practical assistance with finding accommodation and managing relocation-related costs, contributing to a smoother transition for staff joining the University.