Want to become an Aussie au pair in the UK?

While both countries speak English and share some cultural roots, the UK tends to be more formal and structured, especially in family routines and communication. Australians are generally more relaxed and casual, with a stronger outdoor lifestyle. British families may expect clearer boundaries and routines, while Australian families often take a more flexible, informal approach. The UK also has cooler weather and different traditions, especially around holidays.

👉 For a full overview, check out our Guide for Australian Au Pairs in the UK:

Register as au pair right here and create an account on Nina.care. Select “au pair” and you’re good to go!

👫 18-30 years old
💬 Intermediate level of English
🚫 Unmarried and no children
🎓 Finished high school
🌎 You love children and are ready for an adventure of up to 24 months!

Okay, we don’t like to brag or anything, but we often hear that we are super involved and know what’s up with the legislation laws. It’s an exciting adventure and we guide you in every step

The minimum monthly pocket money in the UK is £360, however, au pairs with Nina.care will receive at least £480 each month from their host family. 

The vibes can always be off in your new house or you disagree with a family member. This is why you discuss a notice agreement. This is usually 1 or 2 months. Actually, this almost never happens because you get to know your host family and children beforehand, so you know about their family life. If you don’t like your host family, we’ll go look for another host family!

Yes! Au pairs are entitled to a certain amount of paid holiday depending on the country they are in. You should check with your host family for the best week to go. Traveling is a wonderful opportunity to see some of the best scenery your host country or neighboring countries have to offer and a great way to meet other like-minded young people. You can check the rules regarding holiday leave per country right here.

In the UK, communication tends to be more formal and polite than in Australia. British people often use expressions like “please,” “thank you,” and “sorry,” and may come across as reserved at first. In contrast, Australians are typically more direct, relaxed, and open. Humor plays a big role in Australian culture, and teasing or casual banter is common—even with people you don’t know well. This cultural difference can influence how quickly you feel at ease in a new environment.

British families often follow more traditional structures and routines. As an au pair, you may be given clear working hours and specific duties, and families may expect a more formal attitude in your interactions. In Australia, family life tends to be more casual, and au pairs are often treated more like an older sibling. Flexibility and initiative are usually appreciated, and the overall tone within the household is often less structured.

The UK has a cooler, wetter climate than Australia, especially in autumn and winter. As a result, family life and children’s activities often take place indoors. Outdoor activities are limited during rainy seasons. In contrast, Australia’s sunny and warm climate encourages an active, outdoor-oriented lifestyle. If you’re used to beaches, barbecues, and sports, the British climate may take some getting used to—but it also offers new seasonal experiences.

Au pair work in the UK is often more structured. Families tend to follow clear guidelines regarding working hours, household responsibilities, and boundaries. You may be expected to maintain a more formal tone in your role. In Australia, au pair arrangements are typically more relaxed. Families might expect you to adapt quickly, jump in where needed, and become part of the household dynamic in a less formal way.

While both countries speak English, there are notable differences in accents and vocabulary. The UK has a wide variety of regional accents—some of which can be difficult to understand at first. British English also uses different terms for common items (e.g., “nappy” instead of “diaper,” or “boot” for a car trunk). Australian slang might be unfamiliar to British families, so some mutual adjustment is expected. However, your Australian accent should generally be easy for Brits to follow.

Public transport in the UK is well-developed, especially in cities. Most au pairs don’t need to drive, though it can be helpful in rural areas. In Australia, many families expect au pairs to drive—particularly outside of major cities. Fortunately, both countries drive on the left side of the road, making it easier for Australians to adjust to driving in the UK if needed.

In the UK, Christmas is celebrated in the winter with cozy indoor traditions—roast dinners, mulled drinks, and fireside gatherings. British culture places a strong emphasis on tea, Sunday roasts, and traditional holiday rituals. In Australia, Christmas falls in summer, and the holiday season often includes BBQs, beach outings, and outdoor fun. This seasonal reversal is one of the biggest lifestyle contrasts and something to be prepared for as an au pair.

It can take a little longer to build close relationships in the UK, as people tend to be more reserved initially. However, cities often offer great opportunities to join au pair meetups, hobby clubs, or cultural events. In Australia, it’s usually easier to make friends quickly due to the informal, friendly culture. For Australians in the UK, it’s helpful to actively seek out social opportunities and be open to new routines to feel at home more quickly.

You’d be surprised how much feels like home in the UK. Grab a flat white from Grind, Blank Street, or Aussie-run spots like Bluestone Lane. Tim Tams pop up in international aisles, and yep – you’ll even spot Vegemite next to that Marmite stuff. Some pubs do a decent chicken parma, and avo toast with feta is everywhere in trendy brunch cafés. Bill’s has serious Sydney café vibes, and Bondi Green in London is pure Aussie brunch culture. With cricket on the telly and good coffee in hand, the UK’s not such a far cry from home after all.

The UK might suit you if you enjoy structure, cooler weather, and clearer professional boundaries. It also offers proximity to mainland Europe, making it easy to travel during holidays. Australia might be better if you prefer an outdoor, casual lifestyle and a warmer climate. For an Australian au pair looking for a European adventure, the UK offers a unique and rewarding experience—with a touch of tradition and plenty of cultural exchange.