Experience a quiet country lifestyle by living and learning at our Camden campus

Camden is a historic town in south-west Sydney, located approximately 65 km from our Camperdown/Darlington campus. The University of Sydney has a campus in Camden to teach veterinary science and agriculture to students, and where researchers can access an extensive network of farms and research facilities.

But you don’t have to be a vet science or agriculture student to enjoy the benefits of living in Camden. Accommodation at our Camden campus is open to all students and staff, offering a real sense of community and affordable living in an idyllic country landscape. 

We chat to two of our students, Zillur and Firdause, about why they love living at our Camden campus.

Easy living 

Nestled in a pocket of south-west Sydney, Camden is flanked by mountains, valleys, and rich farmland. The charming streets of the township are lined with heritage buildings and home to ambient restaurants that make the most of local produce and boutique businesses full of artisan goods and antique rarities.

Once an agricultural heartland, and known the birthplace of Australia’s wool, wine and dairy industries, Camden is an increasingly popular choice for people who are seeking a slower and easier lifestyle, without compromising on modern comforts or being too far away from the city.

“I like living in Camden because of its historical charm, gorgeous countryside, and lush surroundings. The tranquil environment and scenic surroundings of the Camden campus make it an attractive place for students to live,” said Zillur Rahman, PhD student in the School of Life and Environmental Sciences.

Nearby, the Campbelltown Arts Centre has numerous creative exhibitions and contemporary performances throughout the year, and the Camden Museum offers an insightful exploration of the area’s historical roots. There’s plenty to do outdoors too, with beautiful community gardens like the Macarthur Park, Australia’s largest Botanic Garden at Mount Annan, picnic and barbecue areas, seasonal produce markets, hiking and mountain biking tracks, and family-friendly walking trails. 

Camden is well established with a solid network of infrastructure, public transport, and services. A thriving town centre and a strong sense of community will help you to feel right at home not long after moving in.

“As a student at Camden, I am part of a lively and diverse community with plenty of opportunities for sports, recreation, entertainment, and community engagement,” said Firdause Alhaj Hasson, PhD student and Camden resident.  

“Living here is safe, and peaceful, and the people are incredibly welcoming. At night, Main Street is a beautiful sight with its sparkling fairy lights. I appreciate the diverse food scene, with plenty of great places to eat out, and another bonus is the bike track, where our kids have gained confidence in their biking skills through regular practice,” Firdause added.

Campus perks

While being surrounded by the tranquillity of the natural landscape, living on campus in Camden gives you immediate access to world-class research and teaching facilities and communal spaces for activities. 

“At the Camden campus, there’s a range of excellent on-campus facilities, including the library, computer laboratory, innovative social learning spaces, wireless internet, cafes, gyms, sporting grounds, tennis courts, and plenty of open spaces to relax in,” Firdause said.

Zillur also enjoys the perks of living on campus, as “it’s easy for me to access University of Sydney resources like libraries, labs, and academic support services, which is a big benefit to my studies and research.”

There’s ample opportunity to connect with other students, with the University hosting arts and crafts sessions, trivia nights, mental health month activities, welcome events, cook offs, and so much more.

“Living on campus provides the opportunity to foster a feeling of community by enabling students to form close connections, work together on projects, and take part in a range of events and activities offered by the University at different times,” said Zillur.

Well connected

Only one hour away from Sydney, Camden is a great option for students studying at our Camperdown/Darlington campus who are looking to strike a balance between their academic goals and an easy country lifestyle.

Camden is well connected to the Hume Highway, and public transport routes run often between Camden and Campbelltown to connect you to railway services that get you into central in just under an hour.

“Although Camden has a rural air to it, it's conveniently located near Sydney and the city for students who wish to use the city's resources, employment possibilities, and cultural attractions,” Zillur said. 

“The University provides a shuttle bus to main locations around Camden, and there are public buses and train routes that connect Camden to Sydney, making travelling easier,” Zillur added.

Affordable accommodation

Along with the beautiful town lifestyle and plenty of on-campus activities to get involved in, another key benefit of living in Camden is its affordability. Students who live at the Camden campus have two halls of residence to choose from – Nepean Lodge or Nepean Hall.

Nepean Lodge consists of private bedrooms inside self-contained units that can be shared between two to six people, with rent starting from $188 per week. Rent includes a fully furnished bedroom with a king single bed, mattress, built-in wardrobe, study desk, heater, and utilities like internet and weekly cleaning.

Nepean Hall is dormitory-style accommodation, with rent starting from $163 per week. Rent includes a fully furnished bedroom in a residential hall, a king single bed and mattress, built-in wardrobe, study desk, heater, utilities including internet and weekly cleaning, and access to a shared kitchen, bathroom, and laundry facilities. 

“Student apartments, colleges, and facilities are safe and secure, and our on-site security team is always available to provide you with assistance when needed. There are several parking options available too, making it easy for those who drive,” Firdause said.

Apply early

Locals say Camden is the best town in the world, and our students who live there agree.

“I can confidently say that Camden is the best place me and my family have ever lived,” Firdause said.

Places are limited, so if you’re interested in living on campus in Camden, we recommend putting in your application as soon as possible.

Learn more about what it's like to live in Camden, connect with our accommodation team and apply for our residences on our Camden accommodation website.