Question 1

What is Sitterly?

Accepted Answer

Sitterly is Australia's trusted pet-sitting marketplace. We connect homeowners who need someone to care for their pets (and home) with verified, passionate pet sitters who stay in the home during the sit. It's a genuine exchange - homeowners get peace of mind, and sitters experience a new part of Australia rent-free.

Question 2

How does Sitterly work?

Accepted Answer

It's simple: homeowners create a free listing describing their home, their pets, and the dates they need cover. Pet sitters browse listings, find sits they love, and send applications with a personal message. The homeowner reviews applicants, chats via messaging, and confirms the sitter they trust most. From there the pair coordinate the details directly.

Question 3

Is Sitterly available across all of Australia?

Accepted Answer

Yes - Sitterly is a nationwide Australian platform. We have listings and sitters in every state and territory, from capital cities through to regional and rural areas. Use the location filter on the Find a Home or Find a Sitter pages to narrow your search.

Question 4

Is Sitterly a paid service or a free exchange?

Accepted Answer

Sitterly is a non-monetary exchange platform. Sitters provide care for pets and a home in exchange for free accommodation - no money changes hands for the sit itself. Homeowners list for free. Sitters pay a small subscription to access applications and messaging. This keeps the platform sustainable while keeping sits free for both sides.

Question 5

What makes Sitterly different from traditional pet boarding?

Accepted Answer

Traditional boarding takes pets out of their home, which can cause stress and anxiety. With Sitterly, pets stay in their own environment with their own routines, toys, and smells - far less disruption. Homeowners also benefit from having someone in the home, which can deter break-ins and keep gardens watered. It's a win for everyone.

Question 6

Do I need to create an account to browse listings or sitter profiles?

Accepted Answer

You can browse many listings and sitter profiles without signing up. However, to send messages, apply for a sit, create a listing, or access a full profile you'll need a free Sitterly account.

Question 7

Does it cost homeowners anything to use Sitterly?

Accepted Answer

Nothing - ever. Homeowners have completely free access to the entire platform: create listings, browse sitter profiles, receive applications, message sitters, and confirm a sit. There are no hidden fees, no commissions, and no trial periods.

Question 8

How do I create a listing?

Accepted Answer

Sign up as a homeowner, then go to Manage Listings > Create Listing. You'll add your location, available dates, home details (bedrooms, garden, parking), your pets' details (species, breed, age), what you expect from a sitter, and photos. The more detail you include, the better quality applications you'll receive.

Question 9

How do I find the right sitter?

Accepted Answer

Once your listing is live, sitters will apply and send you a personalised message. You can also browse the Find a Sitter page and reach out to sitters directly. Look for verified badges, read their profile and reviews, and start a conversation before confirming. We recommend a video call before your first sit.

Question 10

Can I have multiple listings at once?

Accepted Answer

Yes. There are no limits on how many listings you can create or keep live at once. If you travel frequently, you can set up recurring or flexible-date listings to attract sitters year-round.

Question 11

What happens if a confirmed sitter has to cancel?

Accepted Answer

It's rare, but it can happen. We recommend confirming a sit as early as possible and keeping your listing live while you're in conversation with an applicant. If a sitter cancels, re-publish your listing immediately so new applications come in. Have a backup sitter from your conversation history if possible.

Question 12

Can I request a meet and greet before confirming?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely, and we strongly encourage it - especially for first-time sits or if you have complex pet needs. A meet and greet (in person or by video call) lets everyone get comfortable before committing. You can arrange this through the messaging system.

Question 13

How many sitters can apply for my listing?

Accepted Answer

There is no cap. Depending on your location and timing, you may receive several applications. You are under no obligation to respond to every applicant, but sending a polite decline is always appreciated and helps sitters move on to other sits.

Question 14

Can I save and bookmark sitters I like?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Click the bookmark icon on any sitter profile to save them to your favourites. This is helpful for finding reliable repeat sitters you've used before or shortlisting candidates before making a decision.

Question 15

Why do sitters pay a subscription?

Accepted Answer

The subscription keeps Sitterly running - maintaining the platform, safety systems, and support - while keeping the service completely free for homeowners. At $9.95/month (or $72.99/year), it's a fraction of the cost of one night's accommodation, and most active sitters recoup that many times over in free stays.

Question 16

What do I get with a Sitter Plus subscription?

Accepted Answer

Sitter Plus gives you full access to: apply to unlimited sits, send and receive messages with homeowners, an enhanced public sitter profile, manage your availability calendar, track profile views and engagement insights, and showcase your reviews prominently.

Question 17

Can I try Sitterly before subscribing?

Accepted Answer

You can create a free profile and browse all available listings without subscribing. A Sitter Plus subscription is required to apply for sits or message homeowners. There are no lock-in contracts - you can cancel anytime from your account settings.

Question 18

How do I apply for a sit?

Accepted Answer

Find a listing you're interested in, click Apply, and write a personalised message to the homeowner. Tell them about yourself, why you're a great fit for their pets, and anything relevant from your experience. Thoughtful, specific applications get far more responses than generic ones.

Question 19

How do I make my profile stand out?

Accepted Answer

Use a clear, friendly profile photo. Write a warm and specific bio that mentions the types of pets you love, your experience, and what you bring to a sit. Add your verifications (ID, police check), list your languages, and collect reviews from early sits. Profiles with photos, verifications, and reviews receive significantly more enquiries.

Question 20

Can I apply for multiple listings at once?

Accepted Answer

Yes. With Sitter Plus there are no limits on applications. We recommend applying to several listings that interest you, as homeowners move at different speeds. Always be honest about your availability and withdraw applications if your dates change.

Question 21

What am I expected to do during a sit?

Accepted Answer

Responsibilities vary by listing but typically include: feeding and fresh water on schedule, exercise and playtime, cleaning up after pets, basic home tasks like collecting mail and watering plants, keeping the home tidy, and providing updates to the homeowner. Always clarify expectations clearly before confirming a sit.

Question 22

Do I need my own transport?

Accepted Answer

Not always, but it depends on the sit. Some listings are in walkable areas or near public transport; rural or regional sits almost always require a car. Check the listing details and confirm transport requirements with the homeowner before applying.

Question 23

Can couples or families sit together?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many sits are ideal for couples or small families. Be transparent in your profile and application about who will be staying. Homeowners appreciate knowing everyone who will be in their home.

Question 24

Can I work or study remotely while on a sit?

Accepted Answer

Many sitters are digital nomads, remote workers, or students. Most listings include Wi-Fi. Always confirm internet speed and workspace with the homeowner in advance if remote work is a priority for you.

Question 25

How does Sitterly verify sitters?

Accepted Answer

We offer three levels of verification: email verification (all users), government-issued ID check, and police check. Verified badges appear on profiles so homeowners can see at a glance how thoroughly a sitter has been vetted. Sitters can upload verification documents via the Upload Verification page.

Question 26

Is a police check required?

Accepted Answer

A police check is not mandatory to use Sitterly, but it is strongly encouraged and significantly increases a sitter's chances of being selected. Homeowners can filter for police-checked sitters. You can upload your check documents and our admin team will verify them within 5 business days.

Question 27

How are users removed from the platform?

Accepted Answer

Any user found to violate our Community Guidelines - including misrepresentation, inappropriate behaviour, animal neglect, or off-platform financial scams - is subject to immediate suspension or permanent removal. You can report any user or listing using the Report button, and our moderation team reviews all reports.

Question 28

Is my personal address kept private?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Homeowner addresses are never shown publicly. Map pins on listings show suburb-level location only. Full street addresses are only shared privately through the messaging system after both parties are comfortable proceeding.

Question 29

What should I do if I feel unsafe or have concerns?

Accepted Answer

Use the Report function on any profile or listing immediately. For urgent safety matters, contact local emergency services (000 in Australia). Then contact our support team at support@sitterly.com.au. Do not proceed with a sit if something feels wrong - your instincts matter.

Question 30

Can I read reviews before accepting or applying?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All public reviews are visible on sitter and homeowner profiles. We encourage both parties to review each other after every sit. Reviews help future users make informed decisions and are a key part of building trust on the platform.

Question 31

How does messaging work on Sitterly?

Accepted Answer

Messaging is built directly into the platform. Once a sitter applies or a homeowner responds, both parties can chat securely within Sitterly. We recommend keeping all conversations on-platform - it keeps a record and protects both parties.

Question 32

When should I move communication off Sitterly?

Accepted Answer

We recommend staying on Sitterly's messaging system throughout the process. Once a sit is confirmed and both parties are comfortable, sharing a phone number for emergency contact on the sit dates themselves is reasonable. Never move off-platform for financial negotiations or identity documents.

Question 33

How do I confirm a booking?

Accepted Answer

Currently, bookings are confirmed by mutual agreement through the messaging system. Once both parties are happy, confirm the start and end dates, key handover logistics, emergency contacts, and pet care instructions in writing within the platform so there is a clear record.

Question 34

What should I discuss with a sitter/homeowner before confirming?

Accepted Answer

Before confirming, cover: exact dates and times, key handover and return, daily pet care routine, emergency vet contact, house rules and access, Wi-Fi details, any special pet needs or medications, what to do in an emergency, and how often the homeowner would like updates. We recommend a checklist - download our Sitter Agreement for a full guide.

Question 35

What if a homeowner or sitter stops responding?

Accepted Answer

If someone stops replying after initial contact, send one follow-up message and give a reasonable window (2-3 days). If there is no response, move on. For confirmed sits where someone goes silent close to the start date, contact us at support@sitterly.com.au so we can assist.

Question 36

How much does a Sitter Plus subscription cost?

Accepted Answer

Sitter Plus is $9.95/month or $72.99/year (save 39%). Both plans offer identical features. The yearly plan works out to $6.08/month - less than a coffee. You can switch between plans at any time from your account settings.

Question 37

Do sitters charge homeowners for their services?

Accepted Answer

No. Sitterly operates on a non-monetary exchange model. The sitter's compensation is free accommodation during the sit. Financial arrangements outside this model (paying sitters a wage) are not facilitated by Sitterly and fall outside our platform scope.

Question 38

How do I cancel my subscription?

Accepted Answer

Go to Account Settings > Billing or Subscription, and follow the cancellation steps. Your profile stays active until the end of the current billing period. There are no cancellation fees and no questions asked.

Question 39

Can I pause my subscription?

Accepted Answer

If you need to take a break from the platform, you can cancel and re-subscribe when you're ready. Your profile data is retained. If you're having financial difficulties, contact us at support@sitterly.com.au - we may be able to assist.

Question 40

Are refunds available?

Accepted Answer

Subscription fees are non-refundable once the billing period has commenced, except in specific circumstances (duplicate charge, platform failure, wrongful account termination). Full details are in our Refund Policy. Your rights under the Australian Consumer Law always apply.

Question 41

What payment methods are accepted?

Accepted Answer

We accept all major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) via Stripe, our secure payment processor. We do not store your card details - all payment data is handled securely by Stripe.

Question 42

Is the subscription GST-inclusive?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All prices displayed on Sitterly are in Australian dollars and are inclusive of GST where applicable. Sitterly Pty Ltd (ABN 50 696 419 404) is registered for GST.

Question 43

What types of pets does Sitterly support?

Accepted Answer

Sitterly supports all pet types: dogs, cats, birds, small animals (rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters), reptiles, fish, and others. You can specify pet types in your listing or sitter profile, and filter searches accordingly.

Question 44

Can sitters bring their own pets?

Accepted Answer

Only with the homeowner's explicit prior consent. This must be discussed and agreed in writing through the messaging system before the sit begins. Many homeowners are happy with it; others are not - always ask first.

Question 45

What if a pet gets sick or injured during a sit?

Accepted Answer

The homeowner should provide the vet's name, address, and contact details before the sit. In an emergency, sitters should take the pet to the nearest vet immediately and contact the homeowner. Most vets will treat the animal and bill the owner directly. Confirm the emergency procedure in advance - it's part of a responsible handover.

Question 46

What if a pet has complex medical needs?

Accepted Answer

Always disclose medication schedules, injections, special diets, or behavioural conditions in the listing and during handover. Sitters should feel confident they can manage the requirements before confirming. If in doubt, be upfront - the right sitter for a complex-needs pet exists and will appreciate the honesty.

Question 47

Are sitters expected to exercise dogs?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if the listing requires it. Dog walking is a standard part of most dog sits. The frequency, duration, and locations should be discussed beforehand. Some listings are for low-activity or elderly dogs; others expect multiple walks a day. Read the listing carefully and ask questions.

Question 48

Can homeowners set rules for how their pets are cared for?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Homeowners should document all their expectations - feeding schedules, exercise routines, sleeping arrangements, treats, prohibited foods, indoor/outdoor access, and any quirks or triggers. The more detail you provide, the better the sitter can care for your pet exactly as you would.

Question 49

How do reviews work on Sitterly?

Accepted Answer

After a sit, both the sitter and homeowner can leave a review for each other. Reviews are public and appear on the respective profiles. We encourage honest, constructive feedback - it helps the whole community make better decisions.

Question 50

Can I edit or delete a review I left?

Accepted Answer

Reviews can be edited within a short window after submission. Once published and visible, reviews are part of the permanent record unless they violate our guidelines (e.g. contain personal attacks, false claims, or inappropriate content). Contact support if you believe a review is in breach of our Community Guidelines.

Question 51

What if I receive an unfair review?

Accepted Answer

You can respond publicly to any review on your profile, which allows future users to see your perspective. If you believe a review violates our Community Guidelines, you can report it for moderation review. We do not remove reviews simply because someone disagrees with them.

Question 52

What is the reply rating?

Accepted Answer

The reply rating reflects how quickly and reliably a user responds to messages. A high reply rating signals that someone is active, communicative, and respectful of other people's time. It's displayed on profiles to help both sitters and homeowners make informed decisions.

Question 53

Can I be both a homeowner and a sitter?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Some users want to house-sit when they travel but also list their own home when they're away. You can create both a sitter profile and a homeowner listing under the same account. Switch between roles from your dashboard.

Question 54

How do I update my profile or listing?

Accepted Answer

Go to your Dashboard or Manage Listings to edit your details at any time. Keep your profile current - update your availability, add new photos, and refresh your bio regularly. Active, up-to-date profiles rank higher in search results.

Question 55

How do I change my email address or password?

Accepted Answer

Go to Account Settings > Profile to update your email address or password. Changing your email will trigger a confirmation to the new address. For password resets, use the Forgot Password link on the Login page.

Question 56

How do I delete my account?

Accepted Answer

To delete your account, contact us at support@sitterly.com.au with your request. Account deletion is permanent and removes your profile, listings, and message history from the platform. Subscription cancellation (if applicable) should be completed before deletion.

Question 57

What happens to my data if I delete my account?

Accepted Answer

Upon account deletion, your personal data is removed in accordance with our Privacy Policy and the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth). Some data may be retained for legal compliance purposes for a limited period as outlined in the policy.

Question 58

Can I set my profile to private?

Accepted Answer

Sitter profiles are public by design - homeowners need to find you. You can control what information appears by choosing not to fill in optional fields. Your contact details, exact address, and payment information are never publicly visible.

Question 59

Is Sitterly responsible if something goes wrong during a sit?

Accepted Answer

Sitterly is a marketplace that connects homeowners and sitters - we are not a party to the arrangements made between users. Responsibility for the conduct of a sit rests with the individuals involved. We strongly recommend reading our Terms of Service and Sitter Agreement before your first sit.

Question 60

Does Sitterly provide insurance coverage?

Accepted Answer

Sitterly does not provide pet, property, or personal liability insurance. We strongly recommend that sitters have their own travel or personal liability insurance for the duration of sits. Homeowners should confirm that their home and contents insurance covers third-party stays - most standard policies do, but check with your insurer.

Question 61

Do sitters need to sign an agreement?

Accepted Answer

Sitters agree to our Terms of Service and Community Guidelines upon account creation. We also publish a Sitter Agreement outlining responsibilities, conduct standards, and expectations. Homeowners and sitters can also draw up their own private written agreement for individual sits - we recommend it.

Question 62

Are pet sitters independent contractors?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Sitters using Sitterly are independent individuals, not employees or contractors of Sitterly Pty Ltd. Sitterly provides the platform to connect parties but does not direct, supervise, or control how sits are conducted. Sitters are responsible for their own tax obligations including declaring any taxable income or benefits.

Question 63

What are my rights under Australian Consumer Law?

Accepted Answer

Nothing in Sitterly's policies excludes your rights under the Australian Consumer Law (Schedule 2, Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth)). You are entitled to a remedy for major failures and compensation for reasonably foreseeable loss. See our Refund Policy for details.

Question 64

How do I report a dispute or complaint?

Accepted Answer

For platform-level complaints, contact us at support@sitterly.com.au. For disputes between a sitter and homeowner, we encourage direct resolution first. Sitterly does not mediate financial disputes between users, but we can suspend or remove accounts found to be acting in bad faith.

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