Au Pair Salary, Working Hours, and Holidays in Australia

An Au Pair in Australia receives weekly pocket money ranging from AUD $200 to $400, as well as free room and board provided by the Host Family. The exact amount depends on the Au Pair’s experience, the number of working hours (usually up to 25–40 hours per week), and the location or specific needs of the family.

As the Au Pair program in Australia is viewed as a cultural exchange rather than formal employment, this payment is considered pocket money or a stipend, not a traditional salary. In return, the Au Pair helps with childcare and light household duties while experiencing Australian family life and improving their English skills.

The Au Pair program in Australia is not yet officially handled by the government. This means that the rules are based on the international Au Pair standards, and both the Host Family and the Au Pair should clearly agree on all conditions before the stay begins.

This page explains the most important details about salary, working hours, holidays and free time, language course, and travel costs for Au Pairs in Australia.

Au Pair Salary in Australia

In Australia it is common for Host Families to pay their Au Pair pocket money on a weekly basis. The recommended hourly wage for Au Pairs in Australia is between 8 and 12 AUD. This equals approximately:

Weekly Hours	Weekly Pay (at 10 AUD/hour)
25	250
35	350

The final amount varies based on experience, hours, and location.

Do Au Pairs in Australia pay tax?

As in Australia, the Au Pair Program is considered a cultural exchange program with pocket money, rather than employment with wages. Au Pairs don't need to pay taxes unless they want to get another job outside of au pairing, like in a cafe etc.

Working Hours for Au Pairs in Australia

Au Pairs in Australia typically work 25 – 40 hours per week. Babysitting hours (1 or 2 evenings) should be included in the total working time.

The exact number of working hours should always be stated clearly in the Au Pair contract.

Holidays and Free Time

Time off and holidays should also be agreed upon before the stay begins and clearly stated in the contract.

Recommended Guidelines:

At least one and a half days off per week, which can be split or fall at the weekend.
2 weeks of holiday per 6 months of the stay

If the Host Family travels and the Au Pair accompanies them, decide whether this time counts as work or holiday, and make a note of it in the contract.

Language Course in Australia

During the stay, it is optional for Au Pairs to enroll in an English language course to improve their skills. This should be discussed with the Host Family so that the language course times fit in with the Au Pair's working hours. Usually, the Au Pair pays for the course, but it is always possible to discuss cost-sharing with the Host Family.

Travel Costs and Visa Requirements

Anyone wanting to become an Au Pair in Australia needs a visa, typically a Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417 or 462). Whether or not Au Pair applicants are eligible for these visas depends on their country of citizenship, their age (18–30) and whether they hold a passport from a country that has a bilateral agreement with Australia. In order to obtain the visa, Au Pairs must show that you have enough savings to cover travel expenses to and from Australia.

Travel cost tips:

The Au Pair usually pays for their own flight and visa.
Some Host Families may choose to contribute to these costs.
We recommend refunding any money only after the Au Pair’s arrival.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much does an Au Pair in Australia earn per month?

On average between 1,000 AUD and 1,500 AUD per month, depending on working hours.

2. Are meals and accommodation included?

Yes! In exchange for their Au Pair duties, Au Pairs receive free room and board, as well as pocket money.

3. Can I join a language course as an Au Pair in Australia?

Yes, you can take English classes in your free time. Talk to your Host Family about this plan.

4. How long can I stay in Australia as an Au Pair?

Usually 6–12 months, depending on your visa type.