Note: This policy is subject to change at any time. Please check all AHN policies on a regular basis for updates.
The Australian Homestay Network (AHN) offers Guests the option to hold their designated room while they are away on holiday. This ensures the room is reserved exclusively for the Guest and will not be used by other Guests during their absence.
Room Holding Details
- Room Holding Fee: The Guest must pay 50% of the normal Weekly Fee for the duration of the hold.
- Host Agreement: This option is subject to the Host agreeing to the room holding rates for the period the Guest is away.
Policy Rules and Conditions
To be eligible for the Room Holding Policy, Guests must comply with the following conditions:
Notice and Duration
- Minimum Duration: The holiday period must be for seven (7) nights or more. The full Weekly Fee will apply if the absence is six (6) days or less.
- Advance Notice: The Guest must notify both AHN and their Host at least two (2) weeks prior to their date of departure to be eligible for the Room Holding Fee. The reduced Room Holding Fee may not be granted if notice is provided after the departure date.
Payment
- Upfront Payment: Before the date of departure, the Guest must pay the following to AHN:
- Any applicable Room Holding Fees.
- Two (2) weeks of the normal Weekly Fee.
- Non-Payment of Fee: If the Guest chooses not to pay the Room Holding Fee, they must remove all belongings from the Host’s home. AHN cannot guarantee the same Host will be available upon the Guest’s return. Should the Guest require a new Homestay placement, they will be required to pay a new Matching Fee and four (4) weeks of Weekly Fees to AHN.
Room and Belongings
- Belongings in Room: The Guest's belongings may remain in the room for the agreed-upon holding period, and the Host must not use the room for other purposes.
- Insurance: The Guest’s belongings left in the room will remain covered by AHN insurance.
Return Date and Placement Conclusion
- Changing Return Date: The Guest must notify AHN and the Host immediately if there are any changes to their scheduled return date. AHN requires seven (7) days’ notice of such changes, and any additional fees will be charged to the Guest accordingly.
- Permanent Move Out: As per the AHN Refund Policy, Guests intending to permanently move out of the Homestay must provide AHN and their Host with a minimum of two (2) weeks’ written notice.
· Guest Not Returning: If a Guest has not returned to the Homestay by the scheduled return date and has not contacted the Host or AHN, the following process will be followed:
· Contact Attempt: AHN will first attempt to contact the Guest using the details listed on their profile.
· Action for Non-Payment: If AHN is unable to reach the Guest and their placement payment has lapsed (i.e., they have no paid nights remaining for their placement), AHN reserves the right to organize for the Host to pack the Guest’s belongings and remove them from the Home.
· Disclaimer of Responsibility: AHN and the Host are not responsible for the Guest's belongings once the paid placement has concluded. Items left behind may be disposed of by the Host or AHN.
Reviewed: 14 January 2026
