In a house share arrangement every member of the house does their own cooking and cleaning. Often homestay Guests, who have experienced a house share, say the house is dirty or it’s difficult to use the kitchen.

In a homestay arrangement the Host does all the cooking and cleaning. Guests are often willing to assist and become involved, especially with cooking, as it is a great learning opportunity for them. However, the role is that of the Host’s to execute cooking and cleaning. This is, after all, part of why they are paying host family homestay fees and not leasing a room in a share house.

Guests often prefer to clean their own rooms. Hosts may offer to vacuum their room for example, but need to be respectful that this is the Guests private space and, always ask permission before entering.

In a house share bills are divided between occupants and each person does their own food shopping. Often food needs to be owner labelled in the fridge, to ensure people aren’t accidentally consuming each other’s purchases. In a homestay accommodation arrangement the Host does all of the food shopping and bills are included in the homestay fees, giving the Guest more time to focus on their primary reason for being in Australia.