Host Program

Become a Host Family

Open your home to a German exchange student and experience the joy of cultural exchange without leaving Australia.

Why Host?

Hosting is a rewarding experience that enriches the whole family.

Cultural Exchange

Bring German culture into your home and share Australian life

Meaningful Connections

Build lifelong friendships that span continents

Family Experience

A unique opportunity for the whole family

Community Events

Participate in GASS events and meet other host families

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Host Family Life

What Hosting Looks Like

Host families share everyday Australian life with their German student - from family dinners and weekend outings, to GASS events like Wintercamp and regional activities. It's a rewarding experience for the whole family.

Express Interest

What We Ask

Hosting is a commitment, but not as daunting as you might think. Here's what's involved.

Provide a safe and welcoming home environment
Include the student in family activities
Support their school attendance and learning
Be available for communication with SAGSE/GASS
Complete the host family application process
Undergo a Working with Children Check

Timeline

Mid-June
German Students Arrive
Meet your student at the airport
June - Aug
Hosting Period
Share Australian winter with your student
Throughout
GASS Events
Regional days, camps, and social activities
Late Aug
Farewell
Say goodbye as students head home

How to Apply

In Victoria, we invite all high school students in Years 10-12 to host a German exchange student. No German language skills necessary.

Application Process

1

Download Forms

Download the Host Family Application Form and School Consent Form from below.

2

Complete Application

Fill out the Host Family Application Form with all required information.

3

Get School Consent

Have your school principal sign the School Consent Form.

4

Submit via Email

Email both completed forms to hosting@gassaustralia.org.au.

5

Interview Process

Once both forms are confirmed, the interview process will begin.

Submit Your Application

Email both completed forms to hosting@gassaustralia.org.au

Required Documents

263 KB

Host Family Application Form 2026

Complete application form for prospective host families

Download PDF
212 KB

School Consent Form 2026

Required consent form to be signed by school principal

Download PDF
3.4 MB

SAGSE Brochure 2026

Comprehensive information about the SAGSE exchange program

Download PDF

Common Questions

How long do I host for?

German students typically stay for 10 weeks during the Australian winter (June-August).

Do I need to speak German?

No! German students have a good level of English. Though any German you speak is a bonus!

Are there costs involved?

You provide food and accommodation. Students have their own spending money for activities.

What support is available?

GASS provides host family coordinators and 24/7 emergency contacts throughout the exchange.

Western Australian Students

If you are a WA student and interested in applying to be a host, you can contact president.wa@sagse.org.au or alternatively visit their website: sagsewa.com.au

Ready to Host?

We're always looking for welcoming families to join our hosting community.