There is a twist about language exchanges... Most of the people want English but English speakers are the least to be inclined to learn foreign languages. Some languages exchanges could find difficulties to find a match. Did it happen to you?
I don't know why this post was downvoted.
I think you have a valid point Jean-Luc. Language learning amongst native English speakers is not a high priority. It is common to go through your whole schooling with little, or no foreign language learning in Australia.
As a native English speaker I have not had a problem finding language partners for my target language, although not everyone is interested in speaking to someone with an Australian accent and not everyone is a "good fit" as a language partner.
Have you had luck finding language partners?
In Canada, there is minimal interest in Europe or Asia. I find it unfortunate but completely understandable due to the physical isolation of North America.
Canadians don't travel to other countries the way that Europeans tend to do. Canadians who do travel are likely to visit the United States as a "grand trip" when they are young. For well-off retirees, having a second home in Florida is popular and these retirees usually spend the winter months in warm Florida.
Not surprisingly, people have minimal interest in their required foreign language classes during their school years and then they forget everything.
As for language exchange, I have tried language exchange (English-Spanish) on two sites. I gave up after three months due to frequent cancellations by unreliable partners. Now, I pay for language practice.
I find language exchange difficult and I think the problem is with me. I am a bit fussy and the language I learn is quite hard. I have no idea what a 'successful' language exchange is but I always feel like I teach English more than I learn of the other language.