Become a homestay host family
Homestay is a great opportunity for international students to experience the Australian lifestyle in a safe and supportive family environment.
Homestay host families contribute to the positive memories international students have of their time in Queensland. Many host families form long-lasting friendships with students and their families all over the world.
What does a homestay host family provide?
Your primary role as a homestay host is to provide students with a safe, welcoming and friendly home situation that supports their personal and educational needs.
You must provide your student with:
- a clean, safe and friendly home where international students can experience the Queensland lifestyle and practice their English conversation skills
- a private bedroom with a desk for study and storage space for the student’s clothes, personal belongings and study materials
- three nutritious meals a day
- assistance to access transport to and from school and for school-related activities.
What do homestay host families receive?
In return for your care and hospitality, students are expected to show you and your family respect, courtesy and consideration.
You will receive a fortnightly payment to cover the student’s meals and homestay expenses.
You will have access to support services and resources to help you plan for your student’s visit, and throughout their stay.
How can you become an International Student Programs homestay provider?
- Every adult in your home must have a current
Blue Card to become a homestay provider.
- Homestay providers are selected from local communities by EQI schools.
- Find a participating school in your area from our
EQI school list.
- Contact your local EQI school(s) directly to express your interest in becoming a homestay provider.
- The school will discuss homestay provider requirements and assist you through the application process.
Testimony — Homestay parent, Sandra Jarrett, Townsville
'I became a homestay host because I wanted to enrich our family’s experience, especially my three sons, to embrace young people from other countries. I have loved sharing Australian experiences with our students. Several years ago I hosted two girls, Camille from Belgium and Philine from Germany. I will never forget our weekend trip to Magnetic Island and the excitement the girls felt seeing rock wallabies and a Koala with her baby, living in a suburban street. I have stayed in touch with both girls and recently visited Europe for the first time, where I met up with both girls and their families. The friendship we all developed through a shared trust and love for the two girls is the most precious gift.'
Additional information