What is the difference between an Au Pair and a Nanny?
An au pair is typically between the ages of 18-26 with basic childcare experience, coming to stay with a family for a cultural exchange.
Au pairs typically don’t make a career out of childcare work. As Au Pairs have more limited experience, they ‘help out more than taking sole care, especially with children under 2.
Au pairs are paid mostly in room and board (bedroom and meals) and also given an allowance of $190+ per week.
A nanny is a childcare professional and pursues childcare as an occupation. A nanny has childcare qualifications, is employed by an agency or family, and earns an income from this service.
Most nannies work in live-out positions and cost around $30-$40 per hour to hire.
Au Pair
Nanny
Usually unqualified in childcare but has babysitting experience
Usually qualified in childcare, early learning or teaching
Usually English as a second language
Native English speaker
Allowance of $190+ per week
Hourly rate of $30-$40 per hour
Always live-in
Almost always live–out
Need some training before they can care for children and learn the family routines and requirements
No training required; ready to go
Not employed; au pair program is based on family invitation for cultural exchange
Employed by family or agency, has an ABN
Unstructured play with the children
Age and developmentally appropriate activities
Duty hours should allow for social life and sightseeing, and should not be excessive
Working hours can be unlimited
Can be left in sole care of children that are older
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