Sister City Student Exchange Program

Sister City relations bring excellent mutual benefits in the areas of trade, tourism and cultural exchange.

On a global level, the Sister City program is generally recognised as an important means to build international goodwill and to further global social and economic development based on co-operation at the local level.

Expand the sections below to find out more about Council's exchange program and application process.

Active Sister City Connections

Dubbo has active Sister City relationships with two international cities and two Australian cities:

Minokamo, Japan (June 1989)
Wujiang, China (June 1995)
Newcastle, NSW (March 1995)
A friendship link with Warringah, Sydney was established in October 1994.

Wellington has a Sister City relationship with Toyama/Osawano, Japan (August 1992)

Minokamo Exchange Program 2025

Dubbo Regional Council runs a reciprocal student exchange program with our Japan sister city Minokamo in 2025, where selected students and chaperones from Minokamo and Dubbo Regional Council Local Government Area can represent their communities abroad.

Timelines

Applications for students of the Dubbo Regional Council Local Government Area open 24 February 2025.
Applications for chaperones from the Dubbo Regional Council Local Government Area open 24 February 2025.
Applications for chaperones from the Dubbo Regional Council Local Government Area close 21 April 2025.
Applications for students of the Dubbo Regional Council Local Government Area close 28 April 2025.
Chaperone interviews conducted on 5 May 2025.
Student interviews conducted between 12 and 13 May 2025.
An information night will be held for all successful exchange participants on 23 June 2025.
Japanese students visit Dubbo late July to early August 2025.
Dubbo students and chaperones visit Japan 28 September to 11 October 2025.

Hear from past participants

"The Minokamo exchange was a wonderful experience, the people were extremely welcoming, I believe I have made friends for life. Japanese culture is very interesting and I would love to go back one day. I would recommend this program." 2019 Minokamo Student - Tyerell Ferguson

"Visiting Minokamo in 2019 was a truly memorable experience. Watching the student from Dubbo completely immerse themselves in the everyday culture and with their host families was really humbling. Our group was lucky enough to be part of the 30th anniversary between the Sister Cities which provided a unique experience to the overall trip. From the welcoming barbeque to climbing Inuyama Castle, the Minokamo exchange was an authentic and fantastic way to encounter Japan!" Minokamo Chaperone - Alice McKechnie

Applications

Ready to apply? Visit the application sections below.

FAQS - Minokamo Exchange Program

Do you have a question to ask regarding the Minokamo Exchange Program? Contact Council's Sister City Officer on 02 6801 4000.

Are there age restrictions on the exchange program?

To participate in the exchange, students must be between the age of 15 to 18 years old. Applications can be accepted by students that are not 15 years old at time of application, as long as they will be 15 years old prior to departing from Dubbo to Japan.

How much does the exchange cost roughly?

The cost of the 2024 exchange was approximately $4,857.00. Dubbo Regional Council subsidized $1,000 for each participant, reducing the out-of-pocket expense to $3,857.00. This included flights between Dubbo and Minokamo, three nights’ accommodation in Tokyo, some meals, and tickets for Disneyland etc.

You’ll need extra money for meals and shopping. While this varies depending on personal spending, an additional $500 is recommended.

This is going to be my first time traveling abroad. How am I supported?

If this is your first time traveling abroad, there’s no need to worry. The exchange program is fully supported by Dubbo Regional Council and Minokamo Council. Here’s how we help:

Information Night and Cultural Sessions: These provide all the details you’ll need to prepare for the trip.
Support: Daisy, our Sister Cities Officer, will assist you throughout the exchange.
Travel Arrangements: A professional travel agent helps with all bookings to ensure a smooth trip.
Chaperones: Ten students and two chaperones travel together each year. The chaperones are with you throughout the program.
Minokamo Support: The Minokamo Council and host families are generous and highly supportive of exchange participants.

Do I need to learn Japanese to host a Japanese student or visit Japan?

While learning some Japanese phrases is a great idea, it’s not mandatory, so don’t stress! We offer language sessions to help you learn. Many Japanese students join the exchange to practice their English, so they’ll be eager to converse in English. Additionally, tools like Google Translate can help with communication during your stay in Japan.

What if I can't host a Japanese student due to unforeseen circumstances?

We understand that unexpected situations can arise. If this happens, simply inform our Sister Cities Officer as soon as possible who will aim arrange alternative hosting options.

My parent/caregivers are busy with work. How can we manage hosting?

Our Sister Cities Officer prepares an itinerary for the Japanese students’ visit to Dubbo, including activities that involve host families. Your parents/caregivers don’t need to take time off work unless they wish to.

What happens if I become unwell in Japan during the exchange?

In the past, some students have fallen ill during the exchange. Here’s what you need to know:

Travel Insurance: We strongly encourage students to obtain travel insurance before departure. This allows any medical costs incurred during the trip to be fully claimed upon return (keep all receipts).
Support in Japan: Chaperones, Minokamo Council staff, and host families are very attentive and will ensure you’re well cared for if you’re unwell.
Constant Communication: While in Japan you will have access via WhatsApp to Council staff back in Dubbo who can provide advice and support.

What can I expect in Minokamo?

Yumi, who holds a similar role to the Sister Cities Officer in Minokamo, has many years of experience and is supported by a dedicated team at the Minokamo Council. They will ensure the exchange group is well taken care of.

Before your arrival, Yumi will prepare an itinerary filled with enjoyable activities, including visits to local schools, barbeques with host families, trips to temples and museums, as well as engaging in workshops and other cultural experiences.

Does Wellington or surrounding villages have an exchange program?

All residents of the Dubbo Regional Council Local Government Area, including Wellington residents and residents of local villages, are eligible to apply for the Minokamo Exchange Program. Applicants will still need to meet other requirements such as age restrictions and financial requirements.