"A spokesperson for US Customs and Border Protection confirmed that the visa waiver program prohibited applicants from engaging “in any type of employment or get compensation for services rendered”. The rule, which appears to prohibit house-sitting for free accommodation, took Gourley completely by surprise and she said she now wanted to warn other Australians of the consequences of volunteering to house-sit or pet-sit in the US or neighbouring countries."<p>How far the mighty guardian have fallen
Actually the entire article is a shitshow, the last bit is telling about how much effort was applied:<p>Information on the Australian government’s Smartraveller website warns citizens in general terms that US authorities “have broad powers when deciding if you’re eligible to enter”.<p>Travellers must provide an onward or return ticket and show they have enough money to support themselves, it says, and should be prepared to answer questions about the purpose of the visit, how long they plan to stay, where they will stay and their ties to Australia.<p>“If you provide false information, or can’t satisfy the officials you’re visiting for a valid reason, you can be refused entry,” the advice says.