Questions & Answers
Homestay Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Living with an Australian homestay family is one of the most rewarding aspects of studying at Nambour Christian College. Homestays provide students with a safe, supportive environment where they can improve their English, learn about Australian culture, and experience daily family life.
Meals & Food
Will I receive three meals each day?
Yes. Homestay families provide three meals each day, including breakfast, lunch and dinner including snacks. Lunch may be a packed lunch for school days.
What if I do not like the food?
Living with a homestay family is a wonderful opportunity to experience Australian culture, including Australian food. We encourage students to try new foods; however, if there are foods you do not like, please politely discuss this with your homestay family.
Can I cook my own meals?
Students should not use the kitchen without permission. If you would like to prepare a meal from your home country, speak with your homestay family first. Many families enjoy learning about different cultures through food.
Internet & Mobile Phones
Will I have access to Wi-Fi?
Yes. All homestay families provide access to Wi-Fi for study, communication with family and reasonable personal use.
Can I use the internet whenever I want?
Please respect the household rules regarding internet usage. Some families may limit internet access late at night to encourage healthy sleep habits and wellbeing.
Can I download movies, games or large files?
Always ask your homestay family first. Large downloads can affect internet speeds and may incur additional costs.
Bathroom & Toilet Use
How often can I shower?
Students are welcome to shower daily. As water conservation is important in Australia, families may ask students to keep showers to a reasonable length, typically around 5 minutes.
Towels
You will be provided with a towel for use, most families hang their towel in the bathroom to dry and use again. Towels are normally replace every second or third day.
Can I use the bathroom whenever I need to?
Yes. However, please be considerate of other family members, particularly during busy mornings and evenings.
Can toilet paper be flushed down the toilet?
Yes. Australian toilets are designed for toilet paper only. Do not flush paper towels, tissues, wipes or sanitary products; please use the rubbish bin provided.
What should I do if I accidentally damage something?
Be honest and tell your homestay family as soon as possible. Most issues can be easily resolved when communicated openly.
Laundry
Will my homestay family wash my clothes?
Host families will wash your clothes. The home stay parents will advise of where to place your clothes for washing.
How often can I do laundry?
Your homestay family will explain their laundry schedule and expectations.
Bedtimes & Sleep
Do I have a bedtime?
Yes. Students are expected to maintain healthy sleeping habits and follow the expectations of their homestay family. Most families in Australia would expect students to be in bed no later than 10pm.
Why is bedtime important?
Adequate sleep helps students succeed academically, stay healthy and adjust to life in Australia.
Visitors & Social Activities
Can I invite friends to my homestay home?
Always ask your homestay family first. Friends should never visit without permission.
Can I stay overnight with friends?
Overnight stays require approval from your parents, homestay family and the College.
Australian Family Life & Cultural Expectations
Living with an Australian family may be different from living in your home country. Every family is unique, but the following information may help you understand some common Australian customs and expectations.
Why do Australians say “please” and “thank you” so often?
In Australia, using words such as please, thank you, excuse me, and sorry is considered polite and respectful.
Students are expected to use these expressions regularly with their homestay family, teachers and others within the community.
Examples include:
- “Could I please have some water?”
- “Thank you for dinner.”
- “Excuse me.”
- “Sorry, I am running late.”
These small expressions help build positive relationships and show appreciation.
Should I help around the house?
Yes. While students are guests, they are also considered part of the family.
Students may be expected to:
- Clear the table after meals
- Help with simple household tasks
- Keep their bedroom tidy
- Put away their belongings
- Clean up after themselves
Helping around the home demonstrates respect and appreciation for your homestay family’s hospitality.
Should I join family activities?
Yes. We encourage students to participate in family meals, outings, conversations and activities whenever possible.
Homestay is not simply accommodation. It is an opportunity to experience Australian family life and improve English skills through everyday interactions.
Can I stay in my room all the time?
Students are welcome to spend time in their rooms; however, spending time with the family is an important part of the homestay experience.
What should I do if I am going to be late?
Always let your homestay family know if you will be late returning home. Australian families generally expect to know where students are and when they will return.
Can I take food to my room?
Many Australian families prefer food and drinks to be consumed in the kitchen or dining area. Please check your family’s household rules.
Is punctuality important?
Yes. Arriving on time for school, meals, family activities and appointments is considered respectful in Australia.
Can I call adults by their first name?
Many Australians use first names, even with adults and authority figures. Your homestay family will let you know how they would like to be addressed.
Things That May Be Different in Australia
Students may notice some cultural differences when living with an Australian family.
- Australians are generally friendly, informal and approachable.
- Family meals are often eaten together.
- Dinner is commonly served between 5:30pm and 7:00pm.
- Personal space and privacy are valued.
- Queuing and waiting for your turn is important.
- Water conservation is taken seriously, particularly during dry periods.
- Many families remove shoes inside the home.
- Students are expected to clean up after themselves.
- Sun safety is important. Wear a hat, sunscreen and stay hydrated when outdoors.
- Open and respectful communication is encouraged.
Tips for Adjusting to Homestay Family Life
Moving to another country can be exciting, but it can also feel challenging at times. The following tips can help students adjust successfully:
Be open-minded
Some things may be different from what you are used to. Try new foods, activities and experiences with a positive attitude.Communicate
If you are unsure about something, ask questions. If you have a concern, speak with your homestay family or the International Office.Participate
Join family meals, conversations and activities whenever possible. This is one of the best ways to improve your English and build relationships.Be patient
Adjusting to a new culture takes time. Feeling homesick or overwhelmed occasionally is normal.Share your culture
Teach your homestay family about your country, language, traditions and food. Cultural exchange is one of the most enjoyable parts of homestay.Keep in touch with home, but do not hide in your room
Regular contact with family and friends is important, but balancing this with participation in Australian family life will help you settle in more quickly.Respect house rules
Every family has different routines and expectations. Following household rules helps create a positive experience for everyone.Get involved
Join school activities, clubs, sports and events. The more involved you are, the more comfortable and confident you will become.What if I Am Feeling Homesick?
Feeling homesick is completely normal, especially during the first few weeks. Talk with your homestay family, International Office staff, teachers or friends. We are here to support you and help you have a positive and enjoyable experience at Nambour Christian College.
Top 10 Homestay Success Tips
- Say “please” and “thank you”.
- Keep your room clean and tidy.
- Join family meals and activities.
- Let your family know where you are going.
- Be home at the agreed time.
- Communicate openly and honestly.
- Respect household rules.
- Try new foods and experiences.
- Ask questions if you are unsure.
- Remember that homestay is a cultural exchange, not just a place to stay.
A successful homestay experience is built on respect, communication, kindness and a willingness to embrace new experiences. We encourage all students to make the most of this unique opportunity to become part of an Australian family while studying at Nambour Christian College.
