Opportunity overview
The Kobe Brisbane Student Program builds upon the longstanding sister city relationship between Kobe and Brisbane, established in 1985. This exciting reciprocal program offers a Brisbane state high school an exciting opportunity to participate in an overseas cultural exchange with a Kobe high school. Expressions of interest are now invited for the 2026 Kobe Brisbane Student Program.
Students involved in the program will each welcome and host a student from a Kobe high school. Students will then travel to Kobe where they will stay with their Kobe student buddy and experience Japanese school life at their buddy's high school. While overseas, students will practice and develop their language skills and deepen their understanding of Japanese culture.
Through this program, students have an opportunity to develop their global competence and engage in immersive experiences that will encourage cultural exchange, collaboration and personal growth. This program is designed to broaden horizons, offering students the invaluable opportunity to connect with their peers in Kobe and gain insights that will enrich their individual educational journeys.
Program inclusions
- Return international flights
- GoSafe travel insurance
- Homestay accommodation
- Most meals
- Visa if required
Eligibility
Eligibility requirements for schools
- Be a Queensland state high school located in the Brisbane local government area and offer a Japanese language program for students.
- Reciprocally host the inbound student group from Kobe, Japan for the duration of the program in August 2026.
- Provide a school contact person with whom all arrangements for the group's visit can be made.
- Coordinate the students' school-based itinerary, including English language lessons and the arrangement of a suitable venue for welcome and farewell functions.
- Be able to nominate up to 8 Years 8–9 students who study Japanese language as part of their schooling, and 2 teachers to accompany students as chaperones for the duration of the trip (1 teacher will possess Japanese language proficiency).
- Be available to travel to Japan in September 2026.
Application
Expressions of interest are now open. Please contact Global Engagement for your Kobe Brisbane Student Program expression of interest form.
Sample—Kobe Brisbane Student Program expression of interest form.
Key dates
Travel dates:
- Kobe travels to Brisbane: August 2026
- Brisbane travels to Kobe: September 2026
Applications close: 5.00pm Friday 27 June 2025
Online information sessions (via Microsoft Teams):
Promotional resources for schools