This report presents the first comprehensive study of living and working conditions of au pairs in Australia. Co-authored by Dr Laurie Berg (UTS) and Professor Gabrielle Meagher (Macquarie University), the report draws on responses from almost 1,500 au pairs across 34 nationalities to an online survey in 2017.

With questions on their motivations, working conditions, personal characteristics and perceptions of their experience, the study seeks to provide an evidence base to indicate the contours and variety of au pairing in Australia. The report concludes with six recommendations for reform to address the current lack of regulation and oversight of the often precarious and sometimes exploitative working arrangements of au pairs.