Moving to the other side of the world is exciting — and sometimes lonely. Almost every au pair feels homesick at some point, often in the first few weeks. It is a completely normal part of the experience, and there is a lot you can do to feel at home faster.
Homesickness is normal
Missing your family, friends and the familiar comforts of home does not mean you have made a mistake. It usually means you care about the people you have left behind. Homesickness tends to come in waves and ease as your new routine takes shape, so be kind to yourself in the meantime.
Talk about it
Don't bottle it up. Tell your host parents how you are feeling — most have hosted before and will understand completely. Connecting with other au pairs helps too; they know exactly what you are going through, and a coffee with someone in the same boat can make a world of difference.
Build a routine and a life here
The fastest cure is to put down roots. Say yes to local plans, join a class, club or sport, and explore your neighbourhood so it starts to feel like yours. The more your days fill with people and places you enjoy, the less room there is for homesickness.
Stay connected to home — but not too much
A regular video call with family is a comfort. But try not to spend every free hour online with home, as it can keep you from settling in. Aim for a balance: stay in touch, then close the laptop and step out into your new life.
Look after the basics
Homesickness always feels worse when you are tired, hungry or cooped up. Prioritise sleep, eat well, move your body, and get outside — Australia's sunshine and beaches are good for the soul. Small daily habits make a surprisingly big difference to your mood.
Give it time, and reach out if you need to
For most au pairs, homesickness fades within a few weeks as life here takes hold. If low feelings linger or start to affect your daily life, please talk to your host family or your Premier Au Pair contact — and consider seeing a local doctor (GP), who can help. Asking for support is a sign of strength, and you do not have to manage it alone.