Perth, Western Australia 12th February 2024. As the number of international students seeking educational opportunities in Perth continues to rise, and with few signs of the state’s rental crisis easing, the demand for suitable accommodation options for students is becomes increasingly pressing.
TalkAbout Homestay offers a solution that not only provides much needed accommodation, but also promotes cultural understanding and better educational experiences for students coming to our city.
Hosting an international student has proven to be an eye-opening experience for many families.
Talk About Homestay stands out from traditional rental options by focusing on creating a family-like environment. According to Director Tim Massey, hosting an international student is very different from finding a boarder out of the paper or online.
“It is not a tenant/landlord relationship. Our commitment to students and hosts extends beyond just providing a room to stay. We actively promote cultural exchange and encourage students to participate in their host’s daily lives, such as meal times and chores around the house.”
The program has earned praise from students who describe it as life changing with many of them saying that Being part of a host family has been an unforgettable experience. Many of these families have helped these students adapt to Australian culture and improve their English skills.
TalkAbout Homestay is urgently seeking individuals and families with a room to spare, to be part of this cultural exchange. Hosts can reside anywhere in the metro area and be young, or old.
Tim Massey notes, “Elderly people are interested in becoming hosts with us because it can be comforting for them to know that there is someone else living in the home should there be any health or safety scares. While students are not expected to be caregivers, they are expected to contribute to household tasks, just like any family member would.”
The program ensures that every host and student undergoes a vetting process to create a safe and supportive atmosphere. Hosts receive 24-hour support throughout the entire journey and are not locked into long-term commitments. Should a host be unable to continue, Talk About Homestay immediately relocates the student.
Currently, hosts receive up to $285 per week per student, and starting in 2024, the rate will rise to $300 per week for students over 18 years. Hosts are expected to provide a private, furnished room with essential amenities like internet access, TV, and heating, along with meals.
