Schools in Australia, for parents arriving with children.
School is run by each state and territory, so names and rules differ a little across the country. The basics are the same everywhere, and enrolling early makes the first term easier.
The years of school.
Approximate ages. Starting ages and the name of the first year differ by state and territory.
| Stage | Years | Usual ages | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early childhood | Kindergarten or preschool | 3 to 5 | Not compulsory. Names and funded hours vary by state. |
| First year of school | Foundation | About 5 | Called Prep, Kindergarten, Reception, Transition or Pre-primary, depending on the state. |
| Primary school | Years 1 to 6 | 6 to 12 | Usually one class teacher for most subjects. |
| Secondary school | Years 7 to 10 | 12 to 16 | Specialist teachers for each subject. |
| Senior secondary | Years 11 and 12 | 16 to 18 | Leads to a state or territory senior certificate, such as the VCE in Victoria, or vocational pathways. |
Types of schools
- Government schools are run by the state or territory. Most have a local enrolment area, so your address matters.
- Catholic and independent schools charge fees and set their own enrolment rules. Some are linked to a faith; others follow a particular approach to teaching.
All schools must be registered with their state or territory and follow the Australian Curriculum or an approved equivalent.
Will we pay school fees?
For citizens and permanent residents, government schools charge little or nothing beyond voluntary contributions and some costs such as uniforms, excursions and devices. Children on some temporary visas may have to pay fees at government schools, and the rules differ in each state and territory. Check with the education department in your state before you arrive.
In Victoria, check the Victorian Department of Education website.
How to enrol
- Find your local government school using your state's school finder, or shortlist non-government schools.
- Contact the school. Ask about enrolment forms, uniform and any fees for your child's visa.
- Bring proof of age and identity, your visa grant notices, proof of address, immunisation records and recent school reports.
- Ask about English language support if English is new for your child. Many states run intensive English programs for newly arrived students.
Coming as a school student
International school students need a Student visa and a place at a school registered to take overseas students. School students are one of the groups that can still apply for a Student visa in Australia after 2 October 2026. Younger students may need a parent or guardian with them on a Student Guardian visa. See student visas.
General information only, checked 22 October 2026.