Housesitting in Australia: 3 Things That Surprised Us

Want to explore Australia without breaking the bank? Housesitting in Australia allows you to stay for free while immersing yourself in local culture. In this guide, you’ll learn how to get started, discover the benefits, and find the best spots for housesitting across the country. Let’s dive in and explore how house sitting can transform your Aussie adventure.

Quick thoughts on Pet Sitting in Australia:

• Housesitting in Australia offers free accommodation and a chance to experience local culture, making it an affordable way to explore the country.
• Each city has its own charm: Melbourne is great for pet lovers, Sydney boasts iconic landmarks, Perth is a relaxing stay with city amenities, and Brisbane is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Successful house sitters need to build a strong profile, communicate effectively with homeowners, and maintain properties to ensure a positive experience.
• Use a trusted platform like Trusted Housesitters (and click here for our discount code or Aussie Housesits to find housesitting opportunities. Shy away from flying across the planet based on a promise in a facebook group or a recommendation from a friend of a friend.

3 Things we didn’t expect:

We’ll dig into how to find housesits and choose the best one for your family, but first, here are three things that surprised us about pet sitting in Australia.

Public Transportation is Great

Coming from Canada (and with Australia being a massive landmass) we anticipated that public tranportation wasn’t going to be as available as it is! Since MOST of the Australian population is along the coasts, it’s easy to get from one place to another.

When we were housesitting in the UK, we could go months without a car since a lot of the population centers are so dense. We thought Australia would be more spread out (and there are cases when driving can get you where you need to go faster than public transportation) but for the most part, we’re enjoying the availability.

That being said..

Renting a car (hiring a car) is really affordable

If you can handle the challenge of driving on the left side of the road (a challenge for us Canadians) then renting a car is a great way to get around and much less than car rentals in North America (not sure why?).

Really unsure about driving on the left, but wanting the freedom to get around by car? Consider paying a little more to get a car with self-driving features.

Australian Wildlife & Landscape

In my mind (Adam here), Australia was mostly desert and venomous things trying to find and kill you (ok, that actually may be true by proportion) but along the coasts, there is so much lush greenery, colorful parrots, bright-white (and rare black) cockatoos, kookaburras, sandy beaches, botanical gardens, kangaroos, koalas, and wombats.

We’ve seen a few spiders and a couple of cockroaches, but it’s not venomous snakes are waiting by the car door every time you leave, or tarantulas waiting in your shoes every morning.

I guess I thought we might experience much more of that (or maybe they’re just better at camouflage than I think). I imagined we would see kangaroos, parrots, or wombats in the zoo, and snakes and spiders crawling every where we stepped, but in reality, it’s been the opposite.

Thankfully, Australia isn’t much into Pumpkin Spice, so that’s one thing we haven’t had to dodge much this October.

We love that Aussies tell it like it is. We’ve enjoyed finding signs that don’t hold back:

Home Owners: Finding Petsitters in Australia

A quick note for Australian homeowners: There are two housesitting platforms (free exchange for accomodation and pet sitting) that we would recommend considering if you’re looking to save on pet boarding fees (which sometimes cost pet owners more than the vacation itself)

The two platforms are Aussie Housesits and Trusted Housesitters. We’ve outlined the differences between each housesitting platform. There are others (like Mad Paws) where you can pay someone to care for your pets if the exchange platforms don’t show enough interest.

When you find the platform that’s the best fit for you, check out this blog post on how to choose the best house sitter for your pet and  property.

For house sitters, let’s explore more about house sitting in the land down under!

 

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Exploring The Cities While Housesitting in Australia

House sitting in Australia is a fantastic way to explore the country’s diverse cities. As a house sitter, you’ll not only get free accommodation but also the chance to immerse yourself in local cultures while taking care of pets and maintaining properties. This unique opportunity allows you to discover attractions and experiences that enrich your stay.

Whether you’re strolling through Melbourne’s pet-friendly spots, marveling at Sydney’s iconic landmarks, or enjoying Brisbane’s outdoor adventures, each city offers its own charm. Let’s delve into what makes these cities perfect for house sitters.

Melbourne’s Pet-Friendly Spots

Melbourne is a haven for pet sitters who adore animals. Known as one of the most dog-friendly cities in Australia, Melbourne boasts numerous parks and beaches where dogs can play off-leash. Parks like Albert Park and Fawkner Park are perfect for long walks with your new furry friends. And if you love a good coffee, Melbourne’s pet-friendly cafes welcome pets alongside their owners, making it an ideal city for house and pet sitters.

Imagine spending your mornings at a cozy cafe with your furry friend by your side, then heading to one of Melbourne’s many dog-friendly parks for an afternoon of play. The city’s vibrant culture and pet-friendly environment make it a favorite among Aussie house sitters.

Sydney’s Iconic Landmarks

Sydney offers house sitters in Australia the chance to explore some of Australia’s most famous landmarks. Picture yourself taking in the grandeur of the Sydney Opera House or soaking up the sun at Bondi Beach.

While you’re minding people’s homes, you can enjoy these iconic sites and more, making your house sitting experience unforgettable.

Brisbane’s Outdoor Adventures

If you’re an active house sitter, Brisbane’s outdoor lifestyle will captivate you. The city is peppered with dog-friendly parks and walk trails, perfect for those who love travelling and staying active with their furry companions. Off-leash parks like New Farm Park and Roma Street Parkland offer pets plenty of space to socialize and exercise.

Brisbane also features amenities like water stations and shaded areas, ensuring comfort for both pets and their sitters. This city is a paradise for those who enjoy a blend of urban living and outdoor adventures.

Housesitting in Perth

Perth (on the west coast) offers a unique blend of urban living and natural beauty for house sitters in Australia. Known for its sunny weather and relaxed lifestyle, Perth provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities with your furry friends. Explore Kings Park, one of the largest inner-city parks in the world, perfect for scenic walks and picnics with pets. The city’s beaches, like Cottesloe and Scarborough, are great spots for dog-friendly outings and leisurely strolls along the shore.

As a house sitter in Perth, you’ll have access to vibrant neighborhoods with cafes and markets that welcome pets, making it easy to settle into the local community along the coast. Whether you’re caring for two dogs or a variety of pets, Perth’s welcoming atmosphere ensures a rewarding and enjoyable house sitting experience.

Canberra’s Cultural and Scenic Appeal

Canberra, Australia’s capital city, offers a unique blend of cultural richness and natural beauty for house sitters. Known for its well-planned layout and abundance of green spaces, Canberra provides plenty of opportunities to explore museums, galleries, and beautiful parks with your furry friends.

As a house sitter in Canberra, you can enjoy visits to the National Gallery of Australia, the Australian War Memorial, and the vibrant local markets. The city’s numerous walking trails, such as those around Lake Burley Griffin, are perfect for daily dog walks and outdoor adventures. With a peaceful atmosphere and a friendly community, Canberra is an excellent destination for families seeking a balanced mix of culture and nature while caring for pets and homes.

Housesitting in Australian Nature

For those who prefer the tranquility of nature, housesitting in Australia’s rural and coastal areas is a dream come true. From the lush landscapes of Sydney’s coastal views to the stunning natural beauty of the Great Barrier Reef near Cairns, housesitting offers a perfect mix of adventure and pet care.

Imagine waking up in a small country town, surrounded by nature, while caring for pets and maintaining beautiful, quiet homes. This immersive experience allows you to embrace Australia’s breathtaking scenery, making your house sitting journey truly unforgettable.

Tropical Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef

Cairns is a tropical paradise for house sitters. With numerous dog-friendly parks like Trinity Beach and Esplanade, you and your pets can enjoy off-leash wandering and swimming at dog-safe spots. Goomboora Park, with its forest and creek, offers a perfect setting for pets to play and cool off.

The Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see for nature lovers. While house sitting in Cairns, you can explore this natural wonder, adding a touch of adventure to your stay.

Discovering Darwin and Kakadu National Park

Kakadu National Park, the largest reserve in Australia, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural heritage. As a house sitter, you can visit Aboriginal sites, explore Savannah Woodlands, and bond with pets at the Jabiru coastline.

This unique setting offers an enriching experience for those who love nature and history. Darwin is the furthest north in Australia, so being so close to the equator, expect it to be hot year round.

Benefits of Housesitting in Australia

Housesitting in Australia comes with numerous benefits that extend beyond free accommodation. It allows you to experience local culture and attractions without the burden of accommodation costs, making it an affordable way to explore the country.

From forming bonds with adorable animals to enjoying diverse rural and coastal settings, housesitting offers a unique blend of adventure and pet care. Let’s explore these benefits in detail.

 

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Free Accommodation as a Pet Sitter

One of the most appealing aspects of house sitting is the opportunity to enjoy free accommodation. This can save you thousands of dollars annually, allowing you to explore various locations without the financial burden of rent or hotel stays. Imagine staying in premium properties across Australia, from bustling cities to serene coastal homes, all without paying a cent for lodging – just pay for your annual Trusted Housesitters membership with a 25% discount, and you can apply and accept unlimited housesits worldwide.

We love this because it frees out budget for experiences (and ice cream, if we’re being honest)

House sitting opportunities are plentiful, meaning you can tailor your stays to suit your travel preferences, enjoying different parts of Australia while maintaining a budget-friendly lifestyle. If you choose to house sit, you can experience even more of what the country has to offer through Australian house sits.

Happy Pets and Secure Homes

House sitters and dog sitters provide pets with the comfort of their familiar environment, ensuring they remain secure and well-cared for during their owner’s absence. This continuity helps maintain the pets’ routines and contributes to their emotional well-being. Homeowners can travel with peace of mind, knowing their beloved pets are in good hands (and without having to pay kennel fees!)

For pet sitters who love animals, forming bonds with new furry friends is incredibly rewarding. You’ll find joy in seeing happy pets, and homeowners will appreciate the attention and care you provide as you pet sit and engage in pet sitting.

Cultural Exchange and New Experiences

Housesitting offers a unique opportunity for cultural exchange. Living in a local home allows you to experience daily life as a local, fostering deeper connections to the place. Engaging with local communities and exploring new cultures enhances your understanding of the world and enriches your lives.

We love asking the home owner about things to do in the area because we get a local’s perspective on a secret beach or a quaint town out of the way or their opinion on the best fish and chips in town.

Embrace every chance to immerse yourself in the local culture, attend events, and build meaningful experiences while housesitting,

Becoming a Successful House Sitter in Australia

Becoming a successful house sitter in Australia requires a combination of responsibility, transparency, and effective communication. Establishing trust and reliability is crucial, and this begins with creating a solid profile on a trusted house and earning positive reviews.

Engaging with other house sitters can provide valuable insights and support, helping you navigate the house sitting journey. Let’s explore the key steps to becoming a successful house sitter.

Building a Strong Profile ahead of Housesitting in Australia

Creating a compelling profile on house sitting websites is essential. Highlight your reliability, experiences, and reasons for house sitting to build authenticity and rapport with potential homeowners. A reliable house sitter can make all the difference.

Include engaging photographs, especially with pets, to enhance trust and credibility. This is especially true for anyone who adores animals. We would recommend trying to find a housesit locally to build your reviews before trying to apply for a housesit you would have to travel to.

If you’ve already signed up for a housesitting platform, here are our tips for maximizing your housesitting profile.

Communicating with Homeowners

Effective communication with homeowners is vital. Consider meeting via video calls to establish rapport before accepting a house sit and check-in every few weeks before arriving.  We like to share with homeowners that we’re excited to be on our way, getting on the plane, arriving at the airport, and steps along the way. Of course, read their personality to determine if this is a fit, but we don’t want home owners wondering if we’re going to actually arrive (or feel out of the loop from potential airline delays or a missed train).

We also like to share photos with home owners. As much as they’re focused on their travel, they also miss their pets and would like to see how they’re getting along with our boys and any questions that have come up along the way. Again, frequency depends on personality of the home owner, but we usually send a photo or two every 3 or 4 days.

Be proactive in providing updates and asking questions about homeowner preferences to ensure a smooth experience.

Maintaining Home and Garden

Maintaining the property is a key responsibility for house sitters. This includes:

• Ensuring the property is returned in the same condition as received
• Tidying up the property
• Taking care of any landscaping
• Consistent upkeep of the garden and home to meet homeowner expectations.

We’ll usually offer to cut the grass if we’ll be at a home longer than a week, skim the leaves out of the pool, or pull some weeds by their garden at the front of the house to tidy up, even if we’re not asked.

Some homeowners will let you know they have someone who comes to take care of their property, and others are grateful that we offered, especially if you’re staying for more than a week.

We keep notes for the homeowner if something was damaged: a cat knocked over a vase, a window latch got jammed, or a light switch stopped working. For the most part, we try to sort out those details ourselves (like finding a screwdriver to tighten a handle, buying new batteries for the remote, or replacing a lightbulb – especially if it’s just a few dollars, which is very little compared to paying for accommodation).

Joining the Aussie House Sitting Community

Joining the Aussie house sitting community opens doors to new opportunities and experiences. Platforms like Aussie House Sitters have been connecting homeowners with house sitters since 2004, creating a trusted network. Engaging with local communities and participating in cultural events enriches your house sitting journey.

From signing up on trusted platforms to connecting with fellow sitters, let’s explore how to become part of this vibrant community.

Signing Up on Trusted Platforms

Reputable platforms like Aussie House Sitters (exchange for Australia only), Trusted Housesitters (exchange worldwide) and Mad Paws (paid services) offer a streamlined process for registering and finding house sitting jobs. We recommend trusted housesitters since it has the largest user base, making it most likely to find a house sitter that you love.

There are multiple tiers  with different benefits so use this guide to figure out which Trusted Housesitters membership is right for you.

These platforms help you connect with homeowners and find house sitting opportunities that match your preferences on a trusted house sitting site.

Connecting with Fellow Sitters

Engaging with other house sitters can provide valuable insights and support. Join forums or social media groups to share experiences and gain tips from experienced house sitters.

Actively participating in these communities fosters connections and enriches your family house sitting journey.

Finding Your Ideal Sit

Using specific search filters on house sitting platforms allows you to find house sits that match your preferences and schedule. Tailor your search based on location, dates, and specific requirements to streamline the process and find the perfect sit.

Here’s how we choose the best housesits for our family.

Summary of being a Pet sitter in Australia

Housesitting in Australia offers a unique blend of free accommodation, cultural exchange, and the joy of caring for pets. Whether you’re exploring vibrant cities or embracing the tranquility of nature, house sitting provides an affordable and enriching way to experience the country.

By building a strong profile, communicating effectively with homeowners, and maintaining properties, you can become a successful house sitter. Joining the Aussie house sitting community opens doors to new opportunities and connections, making your house sitting journey truly unforgettable. So why wait? Start your adventure today and discover the many benefits of housesitting in Australia.

Frequently Asked Questions about Housesitting in Australia

What are the main benefits of housesitting in Australia?

Housesitting in Australia lets you enjoy free accommodation while caring for pets and immersing yourself in the local culture. It’s a fantastic way to travel without breaking the bank! Simply pay for an annual membership with Trusted Housesitters and you can apply and accept as many housesits as your schedule allows.

How do I become a successful house sitter in Australia?

To become a successful house sitter in Australia, craft a standout profile, communicate well with homeowners, and take excellent care of their property and pets. Following these steps will help build trust and secure more opportunities.

How can I find house sitting opportunities in Australia?

You can find house sitting opportunities in Australia by signing up on trusted platforms like Aussie House Sitters, Trusted Housesitters, and Mad Paws. Just create your profile and use their search filters to find sits that fit your needs! Here’s a run down of the various housesitting websites.

What should I do to maintain a homeowner’s property while housesitting?

To maintain the homeowner’s property while housesitting, keep everything tidy and handle any landscaping chores as requested. Regular upkeep is crucial to meet their expectations and ensure you return the property in great shape.
Before accepting a house sit, ask about watering plants, caring for the lawn or garden, if they’ll be gone for an extended period of time and be sure you’re able to commit to these expectations before accepting the house sit.

Do you have an ultimate guide to housesitting?

Thanks for asking! Here are 125 questions we get asked about housesitting with Trusted Housesitters!