Au pair in Australia: a takeover!
A quick read from one of our lovely au pairs — Luna from San Francisco.
What I wish I knew before working abroad: lessons from my au pair experience in Australia
Becoming an au pair was hands down the riskiest decision I've ever made. Before I left, I spent countless hours questioning my sanity — was I being reckless, or just naive? I was about to live with and care for complete strangers in a country I'd never even visited. What could possibly go wrong? The anxious thoughts kept circling.
Now, six months on, I can confidently say it was one of the best decisions of my life. My host family turned out to be incredibly welcoming, I found an amazing group of friends, and I made memories that will last a lifetime. I wouldn't change a thing — but there are a few things I wish I'd known before jumping in. Here are five lessons I've learned along the way.
1. Get out of your comfort zone (even when it feels awkward)
After school or uni, we usually make friends through work or study. But as an au pair you live and work for your host family, so your social life can feel a little isolated at first. Making new friends can be intimidating, but it's essential. My advice? Throw yourself into social situations — even the uncomfortable ones. Go to a bar alone and strike up a conversation, invite a friend of a friend for coffee, or just message someone you know in the city. Whether you're here for six months or a year, time flies, so seize every chance to connect.
2. Always say yes to adventure (even the unexpected ones)
Living abroad is the perfect chance to step outside your routine and embrace new experiences, so my rule is simple: always say yes to adventure. You never know where a spontaneous invite might lead — an impromptu weekend away, a unique local event, or an activity you never thought you'd try. Saying yes opens doors to unexpected, life-changing experiences.
3. But also, know when to say no
Embracing adventure matters — but so does setting boundaries. This one took me a while, especially as a self-confessed people-pleaser. It's crucial to know when to say no, particularly to protect your mental and emotional wellbeing. Set clear boundaries between work and personal time and stick to them. Whether it's declining an extra shift or turning down an overwhelming invitation, saying no isn't selfish — it's necessary for your balance.
4. Don't settle — wait for the right family
If a host family ticks every box except one glaring issue, don't settle. It might seem small at first, but remember you'll be living with these people, and your living situation can make or break your experience. Hold out for the right match — the perfect family is out there, and it's worth the wait.
5. Speak up when things aren't right
Communication is key. If something isn't working with your host family, speak up. I know voicing concerns can feel intimidating, but your happiness matters just as much as your duties. Your host family wants you to feel comfortable, so don't be afraid to share any issues respectfully. The sooner you address things, the smoother your experience — and the better you'll be at your job.
Looking back, these lessons were hard-earned, but each one made my time abroad more rewarding. So if you're thinking about becoming an au pair, remember: don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone, take some risks and make the most of every opportunity. It might just be the adventure of a lifetime.