Hosting Students in Melbourne
Hosting Students in Melbourne, Australia: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
With its vibrant lifestyle, excellent public services, and world-class educational institutions, Melbourne attracts tens of thousands of international students each year. For many of these students, particularly minors and first-time travelers, a homestay arrangement provides not just accommodation but a gateway into Australian society.
1. Melbourne as a Global Education Hub
Melbourne is home to several prestigious institutions including: Hosting Students in Melbourne
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The University of Melbourne
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Monash University
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RMIT University
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Deakin University
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La Trobe University
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Victoria University
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Numerous TAFEs, English language colleges, and secondary schools
Each year, Melbourne welcomes over 200,000 international students from Asia, Europe, South America, and beyond. These students enrich the city’s multicultural fabric while seeking high-quality education and cultural immersion.
2. What Is a Homestay?
A homestay is a living arrangement in which a student lives with a local Australian host or family in their residence. It offers:
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A private, furnished bedroom
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Access to household amenities (bathroom, laundry, Wi-Fi)
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Daily meals
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A safe, supportive, and culturally immersive environment
Homestays are typically arranged through agencies, schools, or universities and are particularly important for younger students under 18, who need adult supervision and emotional support.
3. Types of Students Who Choose Homestay: Hosting Students in Melbourne
A. High School Students (Minors)
International students attending public or private secondary schools are often required to live in homestay arrangements, particularly if they are under the age of 18.
B. University and College Students
Tertiary students may choose homestay for their first semester or year to adjust to life in Melbourne before transitioning to independent housing.
C. Language Students (ELICOS)
English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS) often include homestay accommodation as part of the program to enhance immersion.
D. Short-Term or Exchange Students: Hosting Students in Melbourne
Students participating in exchange programs or study tours also benefit from the cultural exposure that homestay provides.
4. Legal Requirements for Hosting in Melbourne
A. Working With Children Check (WWCC)
All adults (aged 18+) living in the home must obtain a valid Working With Children Check (WWCC) from the Victorian Government. This is mandatory if the student is under 18.
B. Home Standards
Hosts must ensure that the residence:
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Is clean, safe, and well-maintained
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Provides a private bedroom with a bed, desk, chair, wardrobe, and adequate lighting
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Has functional smoke alarms and basic safety measures
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Offers access to internet, laundry, and kitchen facilities
C. Welfare and Guardianship: Hosting Students in Melbourne
For students under 18, the homestay may serve as part of the welfare and guardianship arrangement approved by the student’s school and the Australian Government. Schools are responsible for ensuring that the homestay is appropriate.
D. Insurance
Hosts are advised to maintain public liability insurance to cover potential risks associated with hosting an international student.
5. Homestay Agencies and Institutions
Several reputable homestay providers operate in Melbourne, including:
- The Custodian Australia
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Student Homestay and Guardianship Australia
These agencies: Hosting Students in Melbourne
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Screen and train host families
- Provide ongoing support and conflict resolution services
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Ensure compliance with relevant government standards
Universities and schools may also have their own affiliated homestay programs.
6. Financial Aspects of Hosting
A. Typical Homestay Rates
| Service Type | Weekly Fee (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Full board (3 meals/day) | $300 – $400 |
| Half board (breakfast/dinner) | $250 – $320 |
| Self-catered | $200 – $280 |
Rates may vary based on location, amenities, and the age of the student. Hosts of minors typically receive higher compensation due to greater responsibilities.
B. Payment Structure
Payments are usually made through the homestay agency or school. Hosts are paid fortnightly or monthly. Some institutions may provide a one-time setup fee for new students.
C. Tax Considerations: Hosting Students in Melbourne
According to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), homestay income may be considered non-assessable if the arrangement is classified as a private board. However, if homestay becomes a significant source of income or business-like in nature, it may be taxable. Hosts should consult a tax professional for advice.
7. Responsibilities of the Host
Hosting a student involves more than renting a room—it is about offering emotional and practical support. Responsibilities include:
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Providing daily meals (unless self-catered)
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Maintaining a clean and welcoming home environment
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Supporting the student’s emotional and cultural adjustment
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Assisting with local orientation (transport, shopping, banking)
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Encouraging English language use and study habits
8. Benefits of Hosting Students: Hosting Students in Melbourne
A. Cultural Exchange
Hosts gain insight into global cultures, customs, and traditions. Many families form lifelong bonds with their students.
B. Financial Support
Hosting provides supplementary income, especially for retirees, single adults, or families with spare rooms.
C. Enriched Family Life
Children in the host family benefit from global perspectives and enhanced language skills.
D. Personal Fulfillment
9. Challenges and Solutions
A. Cultural Misunderstandings
Differences in etiquette, food habits, and household expectations can cause confusion. Solutions:
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Use a welcome guide with house rules
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Engage in open, respectful conversations
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Learn basic cultural customs of the student’s background
B. Language Barriers: Hosting Students in Melbourne
Early communication may be difficult, especially with ELICOS students. Tips include:
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Speak slowly and clearly
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Use gestures and translation apps
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Encourage participation in everyday conversation
C. Homesickness
Students, especially minors, may feel isolated. Hosts can:
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Include them in family activities
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Celebrate their cultural holidays
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Provide emotional reassurance
D. Household Dynamics
Conflicts may arise over cleanliness, curfews, or guests. A homestay agreement and agency support can help mediate.
10. Preparing to Host: Hosting Students in Melbourne
A. House Preparation
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Ensure the student’s room is clean and well-furnished
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Create a list of house rules
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Stock up on culturally appropriate foods if possible
B. Orientation
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Explain how to use appliances, transport systems, and emergency numbers
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Provide a map of the neighborhood and local amenities
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Review school or university procedures with the student
C. Welcome and Integration
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Greet the student warmly
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Introduce them to the family and neighbors
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Plan a welcome meal or local outing
11. Host Training and Support
Most agencies and schools provide training covering:
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Child protection laws and duty of care
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Intercultural communication
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Conflict resolution strategies
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Mental health awareness
Ongoing support may include: Hosting Students in Melbourne
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24/7 emergency contacts
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Mediation services
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Access to online resources and host communities
12. Student Expectations
Students choose homestay for safety, immersion, and support. They expect:
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A respectful, inclusive environment
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Reasonable privacy
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Clear house rules
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Regular meals and help with integration
Good communication is key. Hosts should check in regularly and encourage feedback.
13. Special Considerations for Minors: Hosting Students in Melbourne
For students under 18:
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Hosts may serve as part of the official welfare arrangement
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Curfews, supervision, and daily check-ins are more structured
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Hosts are often asked to sign documentation confirming responsibilities
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Institutions closely monitor the homestay arrangement to ensure compliance
14. Geographic Trends in Melbourne Homestays
Melbourne’s homestay landscape varies by suburb:
| Region | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Inner City | Close to universities, higher costs |
| Eastern Suburbs | Family-friendly, diverse communities |
| Western Suburbs | Affordable, longer commutes |
| Northern Suburbs | Popular with TAFE and language students |
| Bayside | Coastal, attractive to short-term students |
15. Testimonials
“Hosting students has made our home livelier. We’ve had students from Japan, Brazil, and Italy. Each experience taught us something new.”
– Host family in Brunswick
“My host family helped me adjust to life in Australia. They took me to a footy match and taught me how to make spaghetti bolognese!”
– Italian university student
16. The Role of Schools and Government: Hosting Students in Melbourne
Melbourne’s educational institutions play a key role in managing homestay:
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Victorian Department of Education supports public school programs for international students
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Universities and TAFEs often work with agencies or have dedicated accommodation services
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The Commonwealth Government regulates homestay through the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act and the National Code of Practice (2018)
17. Future of Homestay in Melbourne
A. Growth Trends
Post-pandemic recovery has reignited demand for homestay options. Flexible, hybrid learning has encouraged students to stay longer and travel more.
B. Digital Matching Platforms
Technology is improving the matching process, using apps and AI to pair students with hosts based on preferences, culture, and learning goals.
C. Focus on Student Well-being
Well-being and mental health are increasingly emphasized. Host training now includes guidance on stress, anxiety, and early signs of depression.
Conclusion
Hosting students in Melbourne is more than a hospitality arrangement—it’s a cross-cultural journey that benefits both host and student. While it involves responsibilities and adjustments, the rewards are immense: financial support, lifelong friendships, and a deeper connection to the global community.
With strong institutional backing, clear legal frameworks, and a welcoming multicultural population, Melbourne remains an ideal city for homestay. For individuals or families considering becoming hosts, the experience offers personal growth, cultural enrichment, and the satisfaction of making a meaningful difference in a young person’s life.
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