02 Jun 2023
Local Canberra families can host international secondary school students through the ACT public schools’ Homestay program. The program is a great way for international students over the age of 16 to settle into life in Australia while completing their secondary school study. Homestay is more than renting out a room in your house, it’s about welcoming a student as part of your family and helping them to experience the Canberra way of life. Meaningful connections are made through the program with both hosts and students developing a unique understanding of cultural diversity and developing long lasting relationships.
We welcome Homestay families from a variety of backgrounds and cultures. A host family can come in all forms and may include families with young children or teenagers, single people, or older couples whose children have grown up and left home.
Homestay families provides students with the security and comforts of a ‘second home’ and offer:
- full board, accommodation and meals with a local family
- a fully furnished bedroom with a desk for study
- the safety, security, and supportive environment of a local family
- the best way to improve English language skills
- assistance in adjusting quickly to a new lifestyle.
To assist with the expenses of hosting, Homestay hosts receive $300 per week from the international student’s family.
To learn more, including how to apply, visit our Homestay webpage.