Accommodation:
Homestay
What is Homestay?
Homestay means living with a local family or resident. It is a cultural exchange between a local individual or family (called a Host) and a visiting international student.
The student lives as a guest in the Host's home and the program is a great way for students to learn English and experience the Australian lifestyle.
Changes to Homestay
All Australian Governments (Commonwealth, State and Local) have recently examined the issues regarding the provision of Homestay, accommodation services and the welfare of International Students while studying in Australia. Important changes have already been legislated and more are anticipated.
In response, Swinburne International is pleased to announce that in 2009 we will be introducing a new industry-leading online management system for homestay placement called the Australian Homestay Network, also known as AHN.
New Benefits and Standards
The AHN has introduced new standards in the provision of Homestay services to International Students. These include:
- Insurance cover to help protect students and Hosts during a Homestay placement
- Trained Homestay Hosts to help welcome students into Australia
- A national 24/7 help line
- An interpreter service
- Medical assistance and referral services
- Insurance claim lodgement assistance
The AHN, will benefit students by streamlining the Homestay process and giving each member access to their own unique, online homepage especially for Homestay.
Homestay Conditions
- Homestay bookings should be made at least ten days prior to arrival
- Placement fee - A$200 paid at the time of lodging an application
- Minimum 4 week Homestay – paid in advance upon the acceptance of the homestay offer
- Homestay Fee per week is A$265 (for students over 18) and A$285 (for student who are 17 years of age)
- Internet access is A$10 per week – paid directly to your Host
- Homestay includes 3 meals per day, a furnished bedroom, electricity, gas and water, but not telephone calls
- The student will need to give both the Host and AHN Homestay two weeks’ notice when vacating
For more information about Homestay accommodation contact your Homestay Supervisor:
email: info@tcnhomestay.com
Tel: (+61) 3 9435 6621
Fax: (+61) 3 9435 4078
Homestay Hosting
If you are interested in becoming a Homestay Host, you are welcome to register your details online.
If you require any further information you can contact:
email: info@tcnhomestay.com
Tel: (+61) 3 9435 6621
Fax: (+61) 3 9435 4078