Australia continues to face widespread labour shortages across both skilled and semi-skilled sectors. According to recent workforce assessments, hundreds of occupations remain in shortage, including childcare-related roles such as babysitters, nannies, and in-home carers.
While many people assume Australia only hires engineers, IT professionals, or healthcare workers, the reality is that family support roles—including babysitters and nannies—are also in demand, particularly for short-term, live-in, and flexible care arrangements.
This guide explains babysitting jobs in Australia, visa options, eligibility requirements, salary expectations, and how international applicants can apply safely in 2026.
Babysitter vs Nanny in Australia – What’s the Difference?
Although the roles are similar, Australia legally distinguishes between babysitters and nannies:
Babysitter
- Short-term or casual care
- Often part-time, temporary, or live-in for limited periods
- Common for visiting families or short-stay arrangements
- Usually does not qualify for long-term skilled visas
Nanny
- Ongoing, professional childcare
- Full-time or permanent employment
- May qualify under Childhood Carer / Early Childhood Educator pathways
- Requires formal qualifications and background checks
Most visa-sponsored babysitting roles are short-term, while long-term nanny jobs involve stricter requirements.
Which Visa Is Used for Babysitting Jobs in Australia?
Temporary Work (Short Stay Activity) Visa – Subclass 400
This is the most common visa used for short-term babysitting or nanny work.
Key points:
- Maximum stay: Up to 3 months
- Employer or host family sponsors the visa
- No extension or visa change allowed (“No Further Stay” condition)
- Babysitter must leave Australia after the approved period
This visa is mainly used when:
- Families temporarily need childcare
- Babysitters accompany families travelling to Australia
Other Visa Options for Childcare & Babysitting Work
Working Holiday Visa – Subclass 417
Available to passport holders from countries such as:
- UK, Ireland, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, South Korea, etc.
Benefits:
- Stay and work up to 12 months
- Babysitting and au pair work permitted
- Can change employers freely
Work and Holiday Visa – Subclass 462
Available to nationals of countries including:
- Bangladesh, China, India, Vietnam, Philippines, Argentina, USA, etc.
Conditions:
- Annual quotas apply
- Education and English requirements may apply
Au Pair Arrangements
- Usually under Working Holiday visas
- Includes accommodation + allowance
- Informal but widely used across Australia
Job Requirements for Babysitting Jobs in Australia
Requirements vary by employer, but commonly include:
- Minimum age: 18 years
- First Aid & CPR certification
- Working With Children Check (WWCC)
- National Police Check
- At least two childcare references
- Basic English communication skills
For professional nanny roles:
- Certificate III or Diploma in Childcare (or working toward it)
- Adherence to childcare codes of conduct
Average Babysitter Salary in Australia (2026)
Babysitting pay depends on experience, duties, and location:
- Average hourly rate: AUD $25 – $35 per hour
- Experienced / special-needs care: AUD $40+ per hour
- Live-in roles may include accommodation instead of higher pay
Australia remains one of the highest-paying countries for childcare work.
Benefits of Babysitting Jobs in Australia
- High hourly wages
- Flexible schedules
- Strong worker protections
- Excellent work-life balance
- Friendly and family-oriented culture
- Safe environment for women
- Opportunity to explore Australia while working
- World-class healthcare system
Examples of Babysitting Jobs in Australia
Full-Time Babysitter – Gold Coast, QLD
- $35/hour
- Care for two children
- Light household duties
- CPR & First Aid required
Permanent Babysitter – Sydney, NSW
- $40–$45/hour
- Full-time or part-time
- Experience with special-needs children preferred
Short-Term Live-In Babysitter – WA
- No experience required
- Accommodation provided
- Christmas holiday coverage
Part-Time Babysitter – VIC
- $33/hour + superannuation
- One weekday
- Open to beginners with positive attitude
Where to Find Babysitting Jobs in Australia
The most reliable platform is SEEK.
Search terms:
- Babysitter jobs Australia
- Nanny jobs Australia foreigners
- Childcare jobs Australia
Other options include:
- Childcare agencies
- Au pair websites
- Family placement services
How to Apply Safely
- Prepare a childcare-focused CV
- Collect references and certificates
- Confirm visa eligibility first
- Apply only through verified platforms
- Avoid anyone promising “guaranteed visas”
- Never pay illegal recruitment fees
Final Thoughts
Babysitting jobs in Australia with visa sponsorship can be an excellent short-term opportunity in 2026, especially under Working Holiday or Subclass 400 visas. While these roles usually do not lead to permanent residency, they offer high earnings, cultural exposure, and flexible work in one of the world’s most livable countries.
If you love working with children and want overseas experience, Australia is a strong option—provided you choose the right visa and legitimate employers.