Aupair in Sydney: What You Need to Know Before Hosting
An Aupair is a young person from a foreign country who comes to Australia to live with a host family and provide childcare and household assistance in exchange for room, board, and a modest allowance. The term Aupair originates from the French phrase “on par,” which means “equal to,” indicating that the Aupair is meant to be an equal member of the host family, sharing responsibilities and tasks.
Who Can Be an Aupair in Sydney?
There are two main categories of people who can become Aupairs in Australia: Working Holiday Visa Holders and International Students. In some cases, locals can also become Aupairs. However, there are certain restrictions on who can become an Aupair, and not everyone is eligible.
According to the Fair Work definition of an Aupair, they must:
- Be between 18 and 30 years old (inclusive)
- Be a foreign national coming to Australia on a Working Holiday Visa or a Student Visa
- Speak functional English
- Be expected to live with their host family and provide up to 30 hours of child-related work per week in exchange for accommodation and pocket money
- Not be related to the host family
- Not be a permanent resident or citizen of Australia (exceptions may apply: See GYMPY)
Typical Aupair Duties
The duties of an Aupair may vary based on the host family’s requirements, but typical tasks include:
- Assisting children in getting ready for school or daycare
- Preparing meals for children
- Doing laundry and light housework
- Driving children to activities or appointments
- Assisting children with homework
- Engaging children in activities and playing with them
- Supervising children while parents are away
- Serving as a positive role model and companion for children
Risks of Not Using a Reputable Agency
While hosting an Aupair has many advantages, there are also risks associated with it. These dangers can be mitigated by using a reputable agency that is a member of CAPAA, such as 99aupairs.
Some of the risks that host families face when not using a reputable agency include:
- Hiring an unqualified or unsuitable Aupair
- Not having access to support and advice if issues arise
- Being unaware of legal requirements and obligations
- Potentially exposing themselves to liability if something goes wrong
Examples of Issues When Not Using an Agency
The case of Samantha Azzopardi, who impersonated an Aupair in Australia and had a history of pretending to be a victim of abuse or neglect, illustrates the importance of using a reputable agency when hiring an Aupair. While cases like this are unusual, they do occur, and it is essential to take precautions to protect oneself and one’s family.
Apart from Samantha Azzopardi, other horror stories have arisen when host families have searched for Aupairs on their own. These stories involve Aupairs mistreating children or stealing from their host families.
Why Choose 99aupairs?
99aupairs is the best-rated agency for Aupairs in Australia. They are a CAPAA member, which means they follow rigorous ethical standards and guidelines. 99aupairs offers a range of services to host families.
Have a question?
Source:
- “What is an Aupair?” 99aupairs.au,
- “Gympy: Local Help for Host Families.” 99aupairs.au,
- Nannies & au pairs – employment status & award coverage. Fair Work Ombudsman,
- “Definition of Aupair.” Fair Work Ombudsman,
- “CAPAA Aupair Definition.” CAPAA,
- “Protect Yourself.” CAPAA,
- “Samantha Azzopardi: Fake Aupair Jailed in Australia Over Child Abduction.” BBC News, 27 May 2021,
- “Choosing the Right Aupair Agency.” 99aupairs.au