Ensuring the safety and well-being of international students under 18 years of age is paramount when planning to study in Australia. One effective approach is to nominate a Department of Home Affairs (DHA)-approved relative to provide accommodation, welfare, and, if necessary, airport reception. This article outlines the eligibility criteria, documentation requirements, and state-specific guidelines for such arrangements.​

✅ Eligibility Criteria for Nominated Relatives

The DHA stipulates that a suitable relative must:​

• Be a parent, step-parent, grandparent, step-grandparent, sibling, step-sibling, aunt, uncle, step-aunt, or step-uncle.

• Be at least 21 years old.

• Be of good character, evidenced by police certificates.

• Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or holder of a visa that allows them to reside in Australia for the duration of the student’s visa or until the student turns 18.​

Welfare-Policy-English.pdf

🏫 State-Specific Requirements

New South Wales (NSW)

The NSW Department of Education mandates:​

• Kindergarten to Year 4: Students must reside with a parent holding a guardian visa.

• Years 5 to 8: Students may live with a direct relative approved by the DHA.​

Victoria

In Victoria, students under 15 years of age at the time of commencing studies may only reside with a parent/legal guardian or DHA-approved relative.​

📄 Required Documentation

To nominate a relative, the following documents must be submitted:​

1. Form 157N: Nomination of a Student Guardian.

2. Proof of Relationship: Documents such as birth certificates to establish the familial relationship.

3. Police Clearance Certificates: For any country the nominated guardian has lived in for more than 12 months in the last 10 years since turning 16, if not a parent or legal custodian.

4. Passport Copy: Including biodata and signature pages of the nominated guardian.

5. Evidence of Australian Residency: If the nominated guardian already holds a substantive visa.​

✈️ Airport Reception

While the DHA does not mandate airport reception arrangements, some education providers may require confirmation of such arrangements as part of their welfare responsibilities. It is advisable to check with the specific education provider for any additional requirements.​

🔄 Changing Welfare Arrangements

If there is a need to change the nominated guardian or welfare arrangements:​

• Approval must be obtained from the DHA before making any changes.

• A new Form 157N must be submitted along with supporting documentation.

• The student must not enter Australia before the new welfare arrangements commence.​

Ensuring compliance with these guidelines is essential for the welfare of international students and the integrity of the student visa program. For further assistance or clarification, consulting with a registered migration agent or the respective state education department is recommended.​

For personalized guidance and support in navigating the process of nominating a DHA-approved relative, visit mycoursefinder.com. Our team is dedicated to assisting international students and their families in ensuring a smooth and compliant transition to studying in Australia.