Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the homestay program?
The homestay program offers international students a safe, welcoming, and immersive living environment in Australia. It helps them improve their English skills, experience Australian culture firsthand, and build meaningful connections with local families.
What are the basic requirements to be a host family?
Host families must:
Have a spare, furnished room with adequate privacy for the student.
Provide three meals a day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
Have adults in the household with valid Working With Children (WWC) clearance.
Be located within a reasonable distance from schools or public transportation.
What kind of support will host families receive from Edusimplex?
Edusimplex provides host families with:
Orientation and training sessions.
24/7 emergency support.
Regular communication and guidance to ensure a positive hosting experience.
How to become a homestay host?
To become a homestay host:
Fill out the host family application form.
A homestay coordinator will contact you to schedule a home inspection.
During the inspection, photos of the home will be taken, and any questions you have will be answered.
You will then receive emails about potential students for hosting.
Can host families choose the students they want to host?
Yes. Once registered, host families will receive emails or phone calls from Edusimplex about potential homestay students. Families can then contact Edusimplex to express their interest in hosting. Students will be placed based on the family’s preferences.
Do host families get paid for hosting students?
Yes, host families receive a payment for hosting students. Payments are made directly to the nominated bank account two days after the student’s arrival, with weekly payments for stays longer than 7 nights.
Are there any payment discussions with the student?
No. Students pay all program fees, including homestay costs, directly to Edusimplex. Host families should not discuss any payment details or amounts with the students.
What is expected of host families during the student’s stay?
Host families should:
Provide a safe, caring, and supportive environment.
Ensure students are never left alone; they must be supervised by adults with valid WWC clearance.
Assist with daily routines, such as guiding students on how to use public transport or helping with school schedules.
Engage students in family activities whenever possible.
How long do students typically stay with a host family?
The duration varies based on the program. Stays can range from a few nights to several months, depending on the student’s study plan.
What should a host family do in case of an emergency?
Host families should immediately contact Edusimplex’s 24/7 support line to report the situation. In case of a medical emergency, dial 000 for immediate assistance.
Can host families set their own house rules?
Yes, host families are encouraged to set house rules. However, they should be reasonable, clearly communicated, and culturally sensitive to ensure a comfortable stay for the student.