Education in Australia
From early childhood to world-ranked universities, Australia offers exceptional education for families and migrants alike. Here's how the system works.
The Australian School System
Australia has a high-quality public education system. Schooling is compulsory from age 5 or 6 through to age 17, and is divided into primary and secondary levels. Both government and non-government schools operate across all states.
1Preschool / Kindergarten
Ages 3–5. Optional but widely attended. Government-funded preschool provides 15+ hours per week in most states. Focuses on play-based learning and school readiness.
2Years 1–6 (or 7)
Ages 5–12. Covers core subjects: English, Mathematics, Science, HSIE, Arts, and PDHPE. Class-based teaching. State-funded and free for citizens and permanent residents.
3Years 7–12 (or 8–12)
Ages 12–18. Subject-based teaching with specialist teachers. Leads to the Higher School Certificate (HSC) or equivalent in each state. Years 11–12 determine university entry scores.
4Years 11–12 (ATAR)
Students select subjects that contribute to their ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank). ATAR is a national ranking used by universities to assess undergraduate applications.
Universities & Higher Education
Australia is home to 43 universities, including eight members of the prestigious Group of Eight (Go8), consistently ranked among the top 100 globally.
Bachelor's Degrees
3–4 years full-time. Entry via ATAR or work experience. Domestic students defer fees through HECS-HELP.
Postgraduate Study
Graduate certificates (6 months) through to PhDs (3–4 years). Many migrants use postgrad to enhance credentials.
TAFE & VET
Certificates I–IV and Diplomas for trade, IT, healthcare, and more. Practical, employer-focused qualifications.
International Students
Third-most-popular study destination globally. A Subclass 500 Student Visa is required, with post-study work rights.
Enrolling Your Child in School
As a migrant parent, enrolling children in an Australian school is straightforward. Most state education departments have a dedicated process for newly arrived families.
Government schools operate on a geographic catchment system. Use your state education department's school finder tool to identify your local school.
You will need: proof of address, your child's birth certificate or passport, immunisation records, visa documentation, and any previous school reports.
Call or visit the school's front office to arrange an enrolment interview. Many schools have an EAL/D coordinator to assess your child's English proficiency.
Students who speak English as an additional language receive targeted EAL/D support programs available in most government schools at no additional cost.
Government schools are free for citizens and permanent residents, though voluntary contributions ($200–$600/year), uniforms, and excursion costs may apply.
