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Help your children develop open minds, compassionate hearts, and a lifelong appreciation for diversity.
When your children live alongside a student from another culture, they naturally become more open‑minded and understanding. They learn acceptance, adaptability and respect for different ways of life – skills that will serve them for the rest of their lives.
Volunteer hosting: students cover schooling, transport and personal expenses; you provide a safe, welcoming home and shared meals when they’re there.
Who are we?
Welcome to Student Exchange Australia & New Zealand. We are a not-for-profit, ISO 9001-certified organisation dedicated to creating meaningful cultural connections. Backed by a trusted global network, we draw on decades of experience in high school exchange to ensure every program is safe, supportive, and enriching. Whether you’re a retired couple, a single parent, or a busy household with kids and pets, any family with an open heart can become a host – and help shape a life-changing experience. Our mission is simple: to empower young people through immersive cultural exchange, enriching both their lives and yours with shared stories, personal growth, and lifelong friendships.Why host with Student Exchange?
Why hosting is a gift for your kids?
Global Mindset
Kids learn empathy and cultural awareness through real‑life friendship.
Lifelong bonds
Many families keep in touch for years – across countries and time zones.
Language & Confidence
Daily conversations build communication skills and self‑belief.
Shared discovery
School events, sport and weekend activities become richer together.
Easier than you think
Apply online
Complete a short form and the required Working With Children Check.
Match with a student
Meet your local coordinator and review student profiles to find the right fit.
Welcome & Connect
We support you through arrival and beyond so everyday life becomes a cultural exchange.
What hosting really means
Our programs are about cultural exchange – not commercial lodging. Here’s a clear snapshot of responsibilities so there are no surprises.
You provide:
- Safe, welcoming home and inclusion as part of your family
- Shared meals when the student is at home
- Guidance on local life, routines and household expectations
- Open communication and encouragement
Students Cover:
- School tuition, uniforms and stationery
- Public transport, outings and activity costs
- Medical cover and personal toiletries/snacks
- Any special dietary preferences beyond your normal shop
Real stories. Real connections.
“Our son discovered a new sport through our student – and a new best friend.”
Alex • SA
“Hosting made our family dinners livelier and our kids more curious about the world.”
Mei • VIC
“We still swap birthday messages across time zones – three years on.”
Daniel • QLD
Frequently asked questions
Choose 3, 5 or 10 months – whatever suits your household best.
No – many wonderful host families are couples, singles or empty nesters.
Hosting is volunteer‑based. Students cover their own expenses; hosts provide a home and shared meals when the student is at home.
Yes. We share profiles and help you find a student who’s a great fit.
You will have a local coordinator, clear guidelines and a 24/7 contact for urgent matters.
Often yes, but placements depend on availability and location. We’ll discuss options with you.
Request information about hosting
Education & Training Directorate, ACT Government
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NSW Department of Education
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Northern Territory Department of Education
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Queensland Department of Education & Training
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South Australia Department for Education
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Tasmanian Assessment, Standards & Certification
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Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority
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Western Australia Department of Education
Learn moreStudent Exchange Australia New Zealand Ltd is a fully registered not-for-profit student exchange organisation in all Australian states and territories, ensuring compliance with both state legislation and national student exchange guidelines.
