Fall in flat prices

By Tony Jaques

Students renting poorer quality flats and rooms are likely to benefit from the present economic situation.

A spokesman for a city letting agency said young Australians who once took "just about anything in the city area" were no longer coming in the same numbers.

Because of this there was rather a glut of shabby accommodation on the market, he said.

Large luxury flats, full board for males, and good quality single bedroomed flats are in heavy demand, but older flats and shared houses are now freely available.

The University Accommodation Services with the landlord's permission, will visit any flats and advise on rent and conditions.