Become a Host Family — Open your home | AusBridge Homestay
AusBridge Homestay enables Australian families to host international students through an entirely online process. Hosting involves providing accommodation, meals, and support while students adjust to a new country. The host journey includes registering your home (15 minutes), undergoing background checks and a home visit, meeting the student's profile before arrival, and receiving ongoing support from the AusBridge team throughout the stay. Host families set their own available dates, can decline matches without reason, and receive compensation for accommodation and meals through a secure online system. Benefits include cultural exchange, language practice opportunities, potential supplementary income, and lasting friendships, while AusBridge provides mediation for any issues and remains reachable during the hosting period.
FAQ
- How do I register as a host family with AusBridge Homestay?
- Registration takes about 15 minutes and costs nothing. You provide details about your home, room, household members, meals you can offer, and your available dates. After registration, you access the online portal to track progress, upload required documents (WWCC, ID, proof of residence, and room photos), and go through the transparent review stages.
- What safety checks does AusBridge require before hosting?
- AusBridge requires background checks for all adults in the house, proof of identity, proof of residence, and room photos. A member of the team visits to inspect the room against their standard and collect background checks as required by Australian hosting regulations. All information is kept under their privacy policy and deleted according to their schedule.
- How much does a host family earn through compensation?
- The page does not specify compensation amounts. Host families receive payment for accommodation and meals through AusBridge's secure online system on a set cycle with statements you can check. Tax treatment varies, so you should consult a tax professional regarding your specific situation.
- What happens if there are problems during the hosting period?
- AusBridge checks in during the first week and remains reachable throughout the hosting period. If issues arise such as homesickness, house rule conflicts, or changes of plan, the AusBridge team mediates and provides support, so you are not left to handle problems alone.
- Can I decline a student match?
- Yes, you receive the student's profile including their dates and dietary needs, and you can decline a match without giving a reason. Before the student arrives, arrival details, meals, and house rules are written down to ensure clear expectations.