Frequently asked questions

• What is the impact of trips to the field on sponsored children?

  Compassion Australia invites supporters to experience Compassion's work firsthand and learn about the effectiveness of long-term child development through the local church. Visiting not only provides an opportunity for supporters to deepen their understanding of poverty and Compassion's work, but the trips also provide encouragement for children, parents, church staff, volunteers and Compassion workers.

  Many children dream of meeting their sponsors, and having them visit their community and meet their families is exciting.

  Compassion ensures that any supporter visiting program centres undertakes training beforehand to help them understand the different culture and customs and how they can best interact with and encourage the children they meet. Local staff are present at all times to act as guides and interpreters to ensure the best experience for children and their sponsors.

• Why does Compassion encourage supporters to visit child development centres when the cost of the trip could be donated to children in need?

  Compassion Australia invites supporters to experience Compassion's work firsthand and learn about long-term child development through the local church. Visiting a child development centre not only provides a life-changing opportunity for supporters to do this, but every trip also provides encouragement for children, parents, church staff, volunteers and Compassion workers.

  We understand that some Compassion supporters want to meet their sponsored child and so we provide an avenue to do so. We also understand that supporters may wish to give or donate the money instead. Ultimately Compassion Australia wants to provide supporters with the best experience possible through whatever means they choose.

• Can I visit my sponsored child?

  Yes. Please notify us at least two months before you wish to travel so that we can arrange your visit to your sponsored child and organise a staff member from our country office to accompany your visit. Because we work hard to send every possible dollar to the countries in which we work, we are unable to help with any associated costs of your visit. More information is available on our website here. To arrange a visit to your sponsored child, please contact us by email compassion@compassion.com.au or phone 1300 22 44 53.

• Why do you need two months' notice to arrange a sponsored child visit?

  Our field staff receive many requests from sponsors around the world who want to visit their sponsored children. We need two months' notice before you travel to allow enough time for the staff in your sponsored child's country to organise and schedule the visit. A country staff member must also accompany each visitor to ensure the safety of both the child and the sponsor.

  You can:

  Contact us to arrange a visit to your sponsored child

  Learn more about visiting your sponsored child

• How old do I have to be to go on an Insight Trip with Compassion?

  The minimum age for a traveller on a Compassion Insight Trip is 18 years, or 13 years if travelling with a parent or legal guardian. The travellers can be exposed to situations and circumstances which may not be suitable for minors.