Why Becomes A Homestay Family?

Cultural Exchange Experience

  • Rewarding interactions with international students from diverse backgrounds.
  • Learn about different cultures, languages, and traditions.
  • Forge lasting friendships and connections worldwide.

Extra Money (Tax Exempt)

  • Convert your spare space into a source of income.
  • Tax exemptions for income earned from hosting guests.
  • Assisting in covering the expenses of hosting students.

Australian Ambassador

  • Showcase your local lifestyle and traditions.
  • Introduce Australian cuisine and neighbourhood gems.
  • Bridge cultures and create unforgettable memories for students.

I have been a homestay family with many schools all over Brisbane, and recently I have joined with Shafston Family because they offer such great service and are very local. I feel like the world comes to me having international students, and so have people all around the world. And I love all the Multiculturalism and different languages and watching young people developing, got scores. 

I appreciate the coordination, the student arrival team, does and making sure that we get the right placement at our homes and that everybody’s happy.  

Ms Lucy, Since 2023

I have been hosting students through Shafston for about eighteen years. It started basically because my son was learning Japanese.  So I thought if I would host Japanese students, he could help them with English and he could learn Japanese as well. And I love to cook, so I love to sort of show them Australia of my life. 

I would just like to say thank you to all the staff at Shafston. I think they do a wonderful job. I’ll just say that they provide great service. 

Ms Jane, Since 2004

When we were thinking about it, it just seemed like a nice idea.  Our daughter is the only child, so we thought it would be a good opportunity to have fun. Students come and spend time with us in our house, and learn about different cultures as well.

I would like to express my sincere appreciation to Shafston for the opportunity to engage our community. In your operation, I think it’s a wonderful opportunity. It really instils sincere pride. Not only the homestay families, but I think the students get a really good feeling of what Brisbane is. Because they stay with our family.  

Ms Harsh, Since 2023

Becomes A Homestay Family Today!

Your path to cultural exchange, money allowance, and ambassadorship!

Check the current available groups

Please click the following button to check the upcoming groups’ information.

Contact Us:

  • +61 434 760 823

  • homestay@shafston.edu

Homestay Guidebook:

Our Homestay Guide has all the information that you need to know about Shafston’s Homestay program. It contains information relating to becoming a Homestay family and is full of helpful tips and resources to assist you in your Homestay experience.

What’s The Requirement To Become Homestay?

To ensure a welcoming home for students and a successful homestay experience, homestay applicants are required to meet the following eligibility:

  • Blue Card: Provide a safe environment with a valid background check
  • Age Requirement: Be over 18 years old, bringing maturity to the role.
  • English Proficiency: Communicate effectively in English for clear interactions.
  • Adequate Bedrooms: Offer comfortably sized rooms for studying and resting.
  • Transport Accessibility: Have easy access to public transportation or offer transport to/from specific locations like Shafston.

How Homestay Family Get Paid?

A simple guide to getting paid: Hosting students in your home is not just a rewarding experience; it also comes with financial benefits. Here’s how homestay families receive the payments:

1. Frequency of Payment:

  • For regular homestays, payments are typically made once per week. This ensures a consistent flow of allowance to support your hosting efforts.

2. Study Tour Arrangements:

  • Payment is usually made on the second last day of the tour in a lump sum.

3. Transparent Communication:

  • Clear communication is key. Make sure you understand the payment schedule and expectations. This avoids any confusion or misunderstandings down the line.

4. Secure Payment Method:

  • Payments are made through secure and reliable direct bank transfers.

What Are The Steps To Become A Homestay Through Shafston?

Are you excited to become a part of the Shafston homestay community and embark on a journey of cultural exchange and mutual growth? Joining our program is a straightforward process that ensures both hosts and students have a positive experience.

Here’s the steps to become a Homestay Host through Shafston:

1. Complete an Online Application Form:

  • Start by filling out our online application form. This is your introduction to us, providing essential details about your home, preferences, and availability. Your application helps us understand your suitability for our homestay program.

2. Apply and Provide a Valid Blue Card:

  • As a part of ensuring a safe and secure environment for students, we require hosts to have a valid Blue Card or its equivalent. This card verifies your clean background and ensures the safety of the students under your care.
  • Get your blue card here!

3. Interview and House Inspection:

  • We value personal connections. After reviewing your application, we will arrange an interview to get to know you better. This is also an opportunity for you to ask questions and learn more about our program.
  • A house inspection will follow, ensuring that your home meets the necessary standards for hosting students. This step helps us understand the accommodation you’ll provide and assures students of a comfortable environment.

Ready to Get Started?

Contact us now to learn more about joining our esteemed homestay community!