Eligibility & Costs 

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Two young women hiking in Australian mountains.

Who Can Apply?

You do not need to have been an au pair before, but you do need meaningful childcare experience, the maturity to live with another family and eligibility to work in Australia. 

  • Be 18–30 years old 
  • Meet health and documentation requirements  
  • Have at least 200 hours of recent, referenced childcare experience 
  • Be eligible for the applicable Australian visa 
  • Be able to commit to a placement of at least six months 
  • Have a clean criminal background 
  • Be able to communicate effectively in English 
  • Be prepared to provide childcare and related light household help 
  • Hold a valid driver’s license for placements that require driving 
Au pair and children playing at the beach.

What Counts as Childcare Experience? 

Qualifying experience may include: 

  • Babysitting 
  • Daycare, preschool or nursery work 
  • School or classroom experience 
  • Summer camp or youth program work 
  • Sports coaching 
  • Tutoring 
  • Children’s nursing or related professional experience 
  • Previous au pair or nanny experience 

Care for younger family members is valuable and should be included in your application, but it does not currently count toward the required 200 referenced hours. 

Country-Specific Visa Guidance 

U.S. Applicants 

Add concise guidance for the applicable Australian Work and Holiday visa, with a link to the official Australian Department of Home Affairs. Confirm eligibility, current fees and any education requirements before launch. 

Canadian Applicants 

Add concise guidance for the applicable Australian Working Holiday visa, with a link to the official Australian Department of Home Affairs. Confirm eligibility, current fees and participation limits before launch. 

AIFS can provide general guidance, but visas are issued by the Australian government and approval cannot be guaranteed. 

Program Fees [TEXT NEEDED]

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Applicant marketFirst PaymentSecond PaymentTotal
United Kingdom£195£800£995*

*Fees are subject to change. The First Payment is non-refundable. Your 2nd Payment is due upon confirmation of your placement. Please refer to our Terms & Conditions for further information. Fees are GBP.

If you have any questions, contact our team for help.

What Your Program Fee Includes

  • Application support and review 
  • Host-family matching services 
  • A confirmed placement before departure, subject to program terms 
  • Predeparture guidance 
  • Four nights of Sydney arrival accommodation, including breakfast 
  • AIFS orientation and first-aid training 
  • Local Community Counsellor and 24/7 emergency support 
  • Participant handbook and resources 
  • Access to eligible participant community and travel benefits 

Additional Costs to Plan For

  • Australian visa 
  • Round-trip airfare 
  • Police/background check 
  • Medical report or appointment 
  • Working With Children Check 
  • Required or recommended vaccinations 
  • Insurance 
  • Personal spending money and independent travel 

Before You Apply

  • Review the eligibility requirements carefully. 
  • Estimate and document your childcare hours. 
  • Consider whether you can commit to living with a host family for at least six months. 
  • Plan for program fees and additional travel costs. 
  • Think realistically about location flexibility and driving expectations. 

Think You Qualify?

Complete the short form and our team will review the basics with you before you begin the full application.

See If You Qualify Apply Now