The Application Process

When we first became a Host Family, we had no idea what to expect. Our very first placement lasted only three weeks. She was a lovely young woman, but caring for two little ones still in nappies was more demanding than she anticipated. We were also still learning how to welcome someone new into our home and trust them with our children.

What made the process reassuring was knowing that AIFS was there to guide us at every step. When the first placement did not work out, AIFS helped us find another match quickly. Every Au Pair goes through the same screening, preparation and support process, which gave us confidence as new parents.

Our next match, Miri from Germany, was a long drive away and we could not wait to meet her. With two children under three and two full-time jobs with frequent travel, we needed support we could rely on. From the moment she arrived, everything simply clicked.

The Benefits to Our Family

Miri fit naturally into our household. She connected with our children, our neighbours and everyone she met. From her first week she embraced every part of family life. We shared a beautiful Christmas together, travelled to Broome and Karratha, and watched her confidence grow as she settled into Australia. Her parents in Germany became part of our story as well, staying in contact and supporting her from afar.

"Hosting an Au Pair gave us more than support with childcare. It gave us friendships, memories and a global family we never expected. The right match truly stays with you for life."

Now, eight years later, we are still connected through WhatsApp, sharing updates, milestones and memories. Miri has since graduated as a speech therapist and returned to Australia with her partner Marno. Welcoming them both into our home felt like no time had passed at all.

Over the years we have hosted fourteen Au Pairs. Not every placement has been perfect, but each one has added something valuable to our family. Some became close friends and others send the occasional update, which still means so much to us.

Experiencing New Cultures

Hosting Au Pairs has introduced our children to new cultures, languages and traditions in the most natural way. Our home has been filled with stories from overseas, conversations about different countries and celebrations we would never have experienced otherwise. Seeing our children embrace these moments and carry them forward has been one of the most rewarding parts of hosting.

These cultural exchanges have taught our children to be open, curious and welcoming. They learned early on that families around the world do things differently, and that every Au Pair brings something special that becomes part of our family history.

Should You Become a Host Family?

Our message to new Host Families is that not every placement will be the perfect fit, and that is completely normal. What matters is the journey of finding the right match, learning together and building trust. The right connection can stay with you for years.

We are incredibly grateful to AIFS for their support and for helping us create these meaningful relationships. Hosting has given us support during busy seasons of life, unforgettable memories and connections that now stretch across the world.

We look forward to visiting Miri and Marno in Germany one day soon, especially now that they are newly engaged. Our story began in Australia, but it has grown into something much bigger, and we could not imagine our family without these experiences.