How to Make Friends and Build a Social Life as an Au Pair in Australia
Moving to Australia as an au pair is an exciting adventure, but it can also feel overwhelming when it comes to making friends and establishing a social life. Whether you're in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, or a smaller town, there are plenty of ways to connect with others and create lasting friendships.
In this blog post, we’ll share practical tips on how to meet new people, get involved in the community, and make the most of your time as an au pair in Australia.
1. Connect with Other Au Pairs
One of the best ways to make friends quickly is by connecting with fellow au pairs. Many au pairs are in the same situation as you—new to the country and eager to meet people.
Where to find other au pairs:
- Join Facebook groups such as Au Pairs in Australia (https://www.facebook.com/groups/AuPairsinAustralia/) or city-specific groups like Au Pairs in Sydney (https://www.facebook.com/groups/1574153446222539/).
- Attend au pair meetups organized through social media platforms or websites like [Meetup.com](https://www.meetup.com/).
- Reach out to your host family for recommendations on local au pair gatherings.
2. Attend Local Events and Activities
Australia is known for its vibrant culture and social events. Attending local activities is a great way to meet people outside of the au pair community and experience Australian life.
Where to find local events:
- Visit Eventbrite Australia (https://www.eventbrite.com.au/) for festivals, workshops, and social gatherings.
- Check out Meetup.com (https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/) for groups that match your interests, such as hiking, language exchanges, or photography.
- Explore your local community centers or libraries for free activities and networking opportunities.
3. Join a Hobby or Sports Club
Taking up a new hobby or joining a sports club is a fun way to meet people who share your interests. Whether it’s surfing, yoga, or joining a book club, Australia offers countless opportunities to get involved.
Popular websites to find hobby groups:
- Surf Life Saving Australia (https://sls.com.au/) – Join a surf club and enjoy Australia’s iconic beach culture.
- Parkrun Australia (https://www.parkrun.com.au/) – Participate in free weekly running events across the country.
- Goodreads (https://www.goodreads.com/group) – Find book clubs and literary events in your area.
4. Use Social Media and Friendship Apps
Social media platforms and apps are fantastic tools for meeting people with similar interests. Many au pairs have successfully made friends through apps designed for social networking.
Best apps for making friends:
- Bumble BFF (https://bumble.com/bff) – Connect with others looking for friendships in your area.
- Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/) – Follow local event pages and connect with other au pairs through hashtags like #AuPairAustralia.
- Couchsurfing (https://www.couchsurfing.com/) – Join events and meet locals and travelers alike.
5. Volunteer and Give Back
Volunteering is not only a rewarding experience but also a great way to meet like-minded individuals. Many organizations in Australia welcome volunteers for short-term or long-term commitments.
Where to find volunteering opportunities:
- GoVolunteer (https://govolunteer.com.au/) – A national database for volunteer opportunities across Australia.
- Seek Volunteer (https://www.volunteer.com.au/) – Find roles that match your skills and interests.
- Local charities, animal shelters, or community projects.
6. Spend Time with Your Host Family
Your host family can be a valuable part of your social life. Engaging in family outings, sharing meals, and bonding with the children can help you feel more integrated and appreciated. It’s also a great way to experience Australian culture firsthand.
Ask your host family for local recommendations, whether it’s restaurants, hidden gems, or social groups.
7. Be Open and Approachable
Making friends in a new country takes time, so it’s important to stay positive and open to new opportunities. Australians are known for being friendly and welcoming, so don’t be afraid to start conversations, introduce yourself at events, or join group activities.
8. Travel and Explore with Fellow Au Pairs
Australia is a vast country with so much to explore. Finding travel buddies among other au pairs or backpackers can make your adventures more fun and affordable.
Popular destinations to visit with friends:
- Sydney’s famous Bondi Beach and Blue Mountains.
- Melbourne’s Great Ocean Road and trendy neighborhoods.
- Queensland’s Gold Coast and the Great Barrier Reef.
Final Thoughts
Building a social life as an au pair in Australia is all about putting yourself out there, trying new things, and staying open to meeting new people. By using the tips above and taking advantage of the resources available, you'll soon feel at home and create friendships that last a lifetime.