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:
- Adequacy of the student’s facilities (bedroom, bathroom, living area);
- Cleanliness of the home;
- Access to public transport;
- Safety (e.g. stair cases sound, no trip hazards)
- 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