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Host Families

New Host Families

• Comprehensive Host application completed by the Host, with all details confirmed by MHS
• Working with Children Check completed by Host and received by MHS
• Host references checked by MHS
• Ensure Host complies with insurance requirements
• Supplier contract executed between Host and MHS
• Visit Host’s home, for the purpose of interviewing the Host family for suitability, this includes:
  1. Adequacy of the student’s facilities (bedroom, bathroom, living area);
  2. Cleanliness of the home;
  3. Access to public transport;
  4. Safety (e.g. stair cases sound, no trip hazards)
  5. General demeanour of the Host and family and their ability to enhance the Student’s Homestay experience
• MHS presentation of the Host Orientation kit, explaining the contractual requirements and provision of other Hosting “tips”
• The first visit by MHS takes 1 to 2 hours

Existing Host Families

• Annual visit by MHS to ensure ongoing suitability and compliance to required standards
• Regular “spot” check by MHS’ airport driver on delivering and picking up students
• Annual confirmation of insurance requirements compliance
• Annual confirmation of Working With Children check remains valid
• Provision of a Host 24 hour emergency support service for issues relating to students
• Provision of counselling support if so required

Students

• Homestay accommodation booked for student a minimum two weeks before arrival date
• Invoice issued and on receipt of payment Homestay Host profile and Airport confirmation letter emailed to student
• The Welcome and Orientation kit for the student sent to Host at least 72 hours before Student’s arrival
• Minor student issues/complaints resolved within 72 hours
• Major student issues/complaints resolved within 24 hours
• For major issues unable to be resolved the student will be relocated within 12 hours
• Complimentary student liability and personal effects insurance provided
• Homestay extension policy in place for student’s benefit
• Provision of a student 24 hour emergency support service
• Provision of guardianship services, if required
• Provision of counselling support if so required

Meridian Homestay Services

• Adherence to Commonwealth and State legislation (e.g. The Commonwealth’s Privacy Act of 1988, Education Services for Overseas Students Act of 2000)
• Secure data management of Host and Student details
• Daily back up of all data relating to Hosts, Students and financial payments
• All MHS’ staff have Working with Children checks