Homestay

Studying in Victoria

Victorian government schools are a destination of choice for international students providing them with a high-quality education, excellent English language tuition, caring welfare support services, secure homestay, and pathways to higher education.

Learn more about studying and living in Victoria as an international student.

Staying with family or a carer 

Some international students at Bundoora Secondary College live with approved blood relatives during their studies. These relatives must be nominated by the parents and formally approved by the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) before they can act as a carer. Once approved by DIBP, the blood relative also assumes responsibility as the student’s welfare provider (guardian).

Homestay

  • Option 3 nominated homestay

  • Option 4 school arranged homestay​

If students do not have relatives in Australia and parents choose for them to stay with family friends, these arrangements are considered ‘third party’, and the family friends are not considered to be the student’s guardian. In cases where students live with family friends or a homestay family, the Principal and the International Student Coordinator (ISC) at BSC will act as the official guardian.

Any guardian other than an approved blood relative must hold a valid Working with Children Check (WWCC). The guardian is responsible for monitoring your progress at BSC, liaising with your PAL teacher and the ISC, and reporting to your parents on your progress or discussing any concerns.

Under Bundoora Secondary College’s Homestay Policy, all international students whose welfare is managed by the school—regardless of age—must live in homestay accommodation approved by the school.

Students are not permitted to live independently or without adult supervision. The ISC will regularly review your homestay arrangement to ensure your wellbeing. We encourage you to respect your homestay family and work together to establish household rules, customs, and expectations for a positive living experience.

 

We are looking for homestay families

Due to the growth of our international program, BSC is looking for families who are interested in providing a warm and supportive environment for an international student who has chosen to study with us.

Host families play a vital role in the success of our International Student Program and are deeply valued by Bundoora Secondary College.

Homestay requirements:

  • Homestay provides full board and accommodation, offered by a family, couple, or single person.

  • Students pay a set weekly fee to cover full board and expenses.

  • All residents aged 18 and over in the homestay must hold a valid WWCC prior to hosting a student. We can assist with this process, and there is no cost to you.

Every homestay arrangement for international students must be approved by Bundoora Secondary College to ensure it meets our minimum standards for safety, comfort, and a welcoming environment.

To register your interest, please contact the school on +61 (03) 9467 1511 or bundoora.sc@education.vic.gov.au.

Visit the Policy Library