The requirements for the care of younger (international) students are set out under Standard 5 of The National Code. The Standard provides that:

"Where students under the age of 18 are not being cared for in Australia by a parent or suitable nominated relative, registered providers ensure the arrangements made to protect the personal safety and social well-being of those students are appropriate".

As of Academic Year 2008, the Australian National University does not take welfare responsibility for international students under the age of 18 unless they turn 18 within six weeks of the commencement of their first semester of enrolment.

Students who turn 18 within six weeks of the commencement of their first semester of enrolment and are not being cared for in Australian by a parent or suitable nominated relative, will be placed in the care of a residential College associated with the University.

A Confirmation of Appropriate Arrangements and Welfare (CAAW) will only be signed by the Registrar in the above circumstances. Individual cases may be considered in exceptional circumstances by the Registrar.