BRISBANE, Australia – 6 October 2021: The Australian Homestay Network (AHN) has announced it is now processing homestay bookings for international students gearing up to travel to Australia.
AHN has developed a special Start With Us program designed to provide much-needed support and home comforts for students as they settle in during their crucial first few weeks in Australia.
AHN Founder, David Bycroft, said homestay has become the perfect way to ensure international students are welcomed, accommodated, and cared for as they prepare to begin their studies post-COVID.
“The transition to living in a new country will be difficult for international students considering the additional challenges of the global pandemic.
“AHN host families provide students with the feeling and support of home while helping them become familiar with their new city, the language, and Australian culture.
“Students can start establishing a local network of trusted friends and community contacts as soon as they arrive in Australia who can help support them throughout their study journey,” Mr Bycroft said.
Mr Bycroft said securing a well-managed homestay placement also alleviates the stress of finding suitable accommodation, with reports from Canada, the UK, Ireland, and the Netherlands highlighting an extreme shortage of quality housing options for international students.
“AHN has a nationwide network of great hosts in great locations ready to share their homes with international students.
“Our local teams are currently working with education providers and agents to help facilitate strong and successful student arrivals to Australia. Demand is high.
“There are good signs for Australia’s recovery as we have already received forward bookings from international students representing 50 different countries.
“Our message to students is to book now. Finding good accommodation will be difficult once the market fully reopens,” Mr Bycroft said.
Australia’s international borders are set to re-open from November with the return of fully vaccinated Australian residents and citizens, students, and skilled migrants the priority.
AHN is offering flexibility to students should a student’s plans fall through, just as they have done throughout the pandemic.
No additional fees will be charged for changes and full refunds will be provided for new AHN guest bookings which have to be cancelled due to visa or border issues out of the student’s control.
State and territory governments are working with education providers regarding international students’ eligibility to return to Australia. Students should contact their institution
