A good question.
A local answer.

If beach mornings are the priority, map the exact accommodation to the station and a suitable swimming beach. Check water quality and conditions rather than assuming the nearest shoreline is ideal.

Compare the group's bedding, bathrooms and lift access before booking an apartment. Five adults can outgrow a nominally spacious room quickly.

Map the walk to your plans and check recent reviews for lifts, noise and maintenance. Southbank buildings differ even when they are on the same street.

If you plan a major mall outing, make it one dedicated trip rather than choosing every night's accommodation around it. Check the airport transfer only for arrival and departure.

Map the hotel entrance to the station, tram stop and places you will actually visit. A central postcode can still mean several blocks of uneven or busy walking.

Ask the hotel to confirm the bathroom enclosure and room category in writing. Marketing photographs can show a different layout from the room you book.

If most evenings are with your friend, a Preston room near the relevant train or tram route can save repeated cross-city travel. Check the exact walking route from the stop.

Read recent reviews for street noise and late-night access, then compare the full price on the event night. Major events can change rates and the feel of the immediate area.

If suitable accommodation is limited nearby, a base along a direct rail route can work better than a nominally closer room requiring two transfers. Check your arrival and evening return times.

If an AFL match is a priority, check which ground hosts your game before choosing accommodation. A central hotel with a straightforward tram or train connection is usually more flexible than choosing solely by distance to one stadium.