- Financially, it makes sense.
Hotel stays in Sydney range from $80-250 per night. That can add up to thousands of dollars! Especially if you want to stay for a decent amount of time. With a host family, you don’t have to worry about booking any accommodations or paying rent. Plus, you also get paid $300 AUD ($190 USD) per week. - You have a place to call home even when you’re far away from yours.
It is always nice to come home to people who love and care about you. Your host family is like your home away from home. - You get to live with safe, vetted, and welcoming hosts.
All of our host families are carefully vetted through our local partners. You’ll get the chance to talk with them — as well as their previous Outbacker(s) — before you arrive. - You can take your time — this is your chance to see everything without being rushed or jet lagged.
It’s so nice when you can actually enjoy the incredible places on your adventure instead of sleepily scratching the surface (thanks jetlag) as you race from place to place. - Experience Australia in an authentic way.
Unlike tourists who just bounce from lily pad to lily pad, you get to deep-dive into a completely different culture and live just like a local. - You can make deeper friendships and get to know the locals.
One of the best parts of traveling is meeting so many interesting people! Luckily for you, you don’t only get to meet them but you can also create lasting friendships. - You avoid tourist traps and get local recommendations.
One of the best benefits of knowing local people is you get to hear their recommendations! They’ve had the time and know-how to find the best restaurants, things to do, and more. - Become a positive influence in a young kid’s life.
You might be surprised how close you get with the kids. Living with them and taking care of them give you the unique opportunity to teach by example and be a positive influence in that child’s life. You might inspire them in ways you can’t imagine. - Create lifelong friendships and relationships.
Many of our Outbackers still stay in contact with their host families. Others become BFFs with others in the program. We hope that you get to create lifelong friendships thanks to your time in our program. - You get to discover more about yourself, your culture, and the world at large.
We don’t know the water we’re swimming in until we’re out of it, right? That’s why experiencing another culture can open your eyes so much!
If you’re still on the fence about living in Australia, apply today to see if you’re accepted. We have flexible program dates and dozens of wonderful host families waiting for YOU!
