South Australian Government Schools Homestay Program

The Year 12 International Student Celebration Dinner 2026 for South Australian Government Schools was a truly memorable evening, bringing together students and teachers to celebrate an important milestone in students’ journeys.

Held in the magnificent Bonython Hall at Adelaide University, the evening recognised the achievements, growth and resilience of our Year 12 international students as they prepare to take their next steps beyond school. Throughout the night, students were celebrated through a range of awards recognising academic achievement, leadership, personal growth and contribution to school communities.

From heartfelt moments during the awards presentations to laughter, dancing and shared celebrations, the evening was filled with joy, pride and connection.

The celebration was a wonderful reflection of the diversity and spirit of our international student community, and the meaningful connections formed throughout their time here.

We congratulate all Year 12 international students completing their studies in 2026 and look forward to seeing where their future journeys take them! 💙

Leni, Adjoa, Anne, Mara, and Marlene had a wonderful time at Herbst Fest! 🎉

They shared their experiences as students studying in South Australia, and spoke with attendees about the homestay program, giving everyone a glimpse into life as an international student.

Wishing them all the best for the rest of their program! 💛

A special moment captured from our recent homestay picnic event 💛

One of our homestay families was joined by their student’s natural parents, who travelled from Germany via San Francisco to spend time together during the gathering at Government House Garden.

It was a wonderful opportunity to bring families together, strengthening connections and celebrating the shared experiences that make the homestay journey so meaningful.

📌 Term 2 begins!

Term 2 is underway across South Australian Government schools.

We look forward to another successful term, with the continued support of homestays in helping our students thrive and make the most of their learning experiences!

Katherine, one of our wonderful homestay hosts, has shared these special moments from her time hosting international students 💛

As her two current students near the end of their stay, she reflects on how much she has enjoyed welcoming them into her home—sharing everyday life, exploring the local area, and celebrating memorable moments together.

She now looks forward to welcoming more students and continuing to build meaningful connections through the homestay experience.

It’s these experiences that create strong connections and lasting memories for both students and families.

Host an international student and make a real difference 🏡

Welcome an international student into your home and experience the benefits of cultural exchange firsthand.

Hosting is a rewarding experience. You’ll share your home, learn about new cultures, and build connections that can last a lifetime.

Many of our homestay families stay in touch with their students long after they return home, and even visit them overseas.

Interested in becoming a homestay family?

Submit your Expression of Interest via our page: https://www.internationalstudents.sa.edu.au/en/for-homestays/host-a-student/

Our team will be in touch to guide you through the next steps and answer any questions.

📣 Attention homestays of year 12 students!

The Year 12 International Student Celebration Dinner 2026 is coming up, and it promises to be a fun and memorable evening for students! 🎉

If your international student is in Year 12, please let them know about this special event and encourage them to liaise with their ISP Manager at school to complete their registration.

Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate the achievements of our Year 12 international students! 💛

A big thank you to Robbie, one of our wonderful homestay families, for sharing these beautiful moments exploring Morialta Falls and Yitpi Yartapuultiku.

From scenic walks and waterfalls to coastal views and cultural experiences, these outings showcase the unique experiences our international students enjoy while living with a homestay family.

It’s these everyday adventures that help students feel at home, build connections, and create lasting memories during their time in South Australia. 🌿

A Warm Welcome for our Japanese Student’s Family💛

Clare High School recently had the pleasure of hosting Yuhi, a Japanese student, along with their family!

The family visited Clare for two nights during their trip to Adelaide and Sydney, giving the school an opportunity to showcase their beautiful region and spend quality time with Yuhi.

Yuhi’s homestay host, Lauren, welcomed the family, making their stay memorable and full of connection.

It’s moments like these that highlight the strong bonds between students, families, and homestay hosts — and the vibrant international student community in South Australia!

Full Circle Moments - From First Student to Lifelong Connection💛

In 2019, Luke welcomed his very first homestay student, Yuma from Japan, who studied at Hamilton Secondary College for eight weeks.

What began with a nervous airport pickup quickly turned into a wonderful experience — bonding over the family dogs, schnitzels with gravy, parkruns, and a weekly tradition of Eggs Benedict and iced coffee. When Yuma returned home, Luke made him a promise: there would always be Eggs Benedict and iced coffee waiting for him in Adelaide.

In December 2025, that promise came full circle.

Yuma returned to Australia with his girlfriend Sakura as part of their 12-month adventure, spending Christmas with Luke and his family. True to his word, their first stop was Luke’s favourite café to continue the tradition — followed by schnitzels, a Christmas Day parkrun, and plenty of time reconnecting.

After Adelaide, Yuma and Sakura headed to regional Victoria for fruit picking, embracing the Australian summer (including some very hot 45-degree days!).

Luke says that hosting Yuma gave him the confidence to continue as a homestay parent. More than 20 students later, he is grateful he said yes all those years ago.

Homestay is more than accommodation — it’s connection, tradition and lifelong friendships. 🌏✨