A family walking by the ocean.

For Parents

Your Young Adult’s Experience in Australia 

We understand that moving to Australia to live with a host family is a significant decision—for the participant and their family. 

AIFS provides a structured application and host-family matching process, preparation before departure, arrival support in Sydney and assistance throughout the placement. 

A young women with children at a beach.

What Parents Should Know 

  • Applicants complete an application, references and an interview. 
  • Participants speak directly with prospective host families before accepting a placement. 
  • Host families are reviewed before participating in the program. Add the approved screening detail once confirmed. 
  • Participants receive preparation and orientation before their host-family placement begins. 
  • A local Community Counsellor and 24/7 emergency support are available in Australia. 
  • The placement agreement should explain duties, schedule, pocket money, accommodation and time off. 
  • Participants travel on an eligible Australian visa and are responsible for following its conditions. 

Living With a Host Family

An au pair is not simply taking a job overseas. The participant becomes part of a host family’s daily life while helping care for the children. Successful placements require maturity, communication, flexibility and realistic expectations from both the au pair and the host family. 

Safety and Support 

AIFS has created cultural exchange opportunities since 1964 and has offered au pair placements in Australia for more than 30 years. The Australia team maintains a local office and provides participant support throughout the program. 

Parent contact approach [TEXT NEEDED]

Decide whether parents should have a direct contact route before departure and clarify privacy boundaries once the participant is an adult. 

Have a Question?

Our team can explain the program structure, application process and support available in Australia. 

Contact Us