What You Need Before Moving Out of Home
Published on 31 March 2026
By Chen – Student placement
That’s a huge step — and it’s normal to feel a mix of excitement and nerves about what comes next. Moving out isn’t just about finding a place or paying rent — it’s about learning how to stand on your own two feet.
Before you take the leap, it helps to know what to expect and what you’ll need. From budgeting and renting basics to finding support if things get tricky, a little planning now can save you a lot of stress later.
So, before you start packing your boxes, check out these handy tips and see if you’re really ready to move out of home:
✅ Money & Budget
Before moving out, ask yourself:
Can I afford rent + bond (usually 4 weeks upfront)?
Have I budgeted for:
Electricity, gas, water
Internet
Food and basic living costs
Transport
Do I have some savings for emergencies?
Tip: Rent is just one part — your weekly costs are usually much higher than expected.
✅ Renting Basics & Your Rights
Understanding renting can help you avoid stress later:
Learn what a lease/contract means
If you are not on the lease, you do not have rights.
Know your rights as a renter
Keep records of payments and agreements
Support is available from:
Tenants Victoria – free advice on renting, bonds, and disputes (for all renters)
Victorian Public Tenants Association – support for public housing renters and applicants
✅ Support Services (You’re Not Alone)
If you need help with housing or are at risk of homelessness, there are youth-friendly services:
Frontyard Youth Services – support, housing help, and connections for young people
Wombat Housing and Support Services – support for young people struggling with housing
If you need urgent help anywhere in Victoria, you can call the 24-hour housing support line: 1800 825 955 (DFFH Services)
✅ Getting a Place
Search online listings or local noticeboards
Consider share housing to reduce costs
Be cautious about who you share, are they trustworthy, clean, honest, can they afford to move out, is this someone you could live with?
Be ready with documents (ID, references, income proof) (Youth Central https://www.youthcentral.vic.gov.au/)
✅ Readiness & Wellbeing
Ask yourself:
Do I feel ready for the responsibility?
Do I have support if things get hard?
Will this move help me feel safe and stable?
There’s no rush — moving out is a big life step, not a race.
Do you want to explore your independence goals with a youth worker?
https://www.monashyouth.org.au/Programs/MY-Workshops
Final Tip
You don’t have to figure everything out on your own. There are people and services ready to support you — before, during, and after you move. Talking to your parent, guardian or siblings can be really helpful.
Taking time to prepare can turn moving out into a positive and empowering experience.
Useful links
https://www.youthcentral.vic.gov.au/youthnav/moving-out
Housing and accommodation | Moving house | Youth Central
Consumer Affairs Victoria - renting
https://tenantsvic.org.au/
https://www.housing.vic.gov.au/housing-options