A homestay is an arrangement where students live with a local family in their private home. 

International students under 18 years of age must live in either a homestay, on-campus accommodation or with a relative approved by the Department of Home Affairs.

Homestay students can be any age, but if you’re under 18, your booking process will be more detailed. You need to stay in a homestay for a minimum of 28 days.

Our partner, Australian Homestay Network (AHN), will match you with an appropriate homestay host. You will meet the host and see the house for the first time when you move in.

All traditional homestay arrangements include:

All traditional homestay arrangements include:

  • a furnished private room in a caring environment (with desk, chair and study lamp)
  • access to internet
  • bathroom and laundry facilities
  • household utilities (electricity, gas, etc.)
  • two meals per day from Monday to Friday
  • three meals per day on Saturday and Sunday
  • homestay host and student support
  • AHN 24/7 professional phone support
  • AHN insurance


Fees, conditions and booking
In addition to the ongoing weekly fee, there is a one-time placement fee of A$290 for all traditional homestays.

You may be eligible for other homestay options. View the AHN website for alternative arrangements. 

Students over 18: approximately A$380 per week, depending on meal options. 

Students under 18: approximately A$400 per week

View full current pricing on the AHN website.

  • Young Caucasian woman working and drinking coffee at home

    Book a homestay

    Experience Australian lifestyle and culture up close and at an affordable rate. You’ll get access to facilities, two meals a day, a caring environment and the opportunity to make new friends. 

    Find out more (Book a homestay)
  • Young male moving out of home, moving boxes into his silver car

    Host a homestay student

    If you’re interested in helping a student experience life in a family home in Melbourne, and have appropriate space and facilities, you can apply to have AHN assess your suitability as a homestay host.

    Find out more (Host a homestay student )
Thinking of hosting a student?

Being a host is a position of great trust and responsibility. Understand what is expected of you, your guest and the requirements of the homestay arrangement by visiting the AHN website.