Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about homeschooling in Australia. Can't find what you're looking for? Get in touch.
In Australia, homeschooling is managed at the state and territory level — each has its own registration body, compulsory age range, and process. You register directly with your state or territory's education authority. Education is compulsory from around age 5–6 until age 17 in most states.
New South Wales
Optional from age 5 (by 31 July cut-off), compulsory from age 6 until age 17. Register with the NSW Department of Education.
Victoria
Compulsory from the year a child turns 6 until age 17. Register with the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority (VRQA).
Queensland
Registration available from age 5.5, compulsory from age 6.5 until age 17 (compulsory participation phase from 16 to 17). Register with Queensland Home Education Unit.
Western Australia
Compulsory from the year a child turns 5.5 until age 17.5. Register with the WA Department of Education.
South Australia
Compulsory from age 6 until age 17. Apply via the SA Department for Education.
Tasmania
Compulsory from age 5 until age 17 — the youngest start age in Australia. Register with the Office of the Education Registrar.
Northern Territory
Compulsory from age 6 until age 17. Registration is valid for one calendar year and must be renewed. Register with the NT Department of Education.
ACT
Compulsory from age 6 until age 17 (or completion of Year 12, whichever comes first). Register with the ACT Education Directorate.
Note: Requirements may change. Always check directly with your state or territory's education authority for the most current information.
Well-structured plan and report templates can make a huge difference when you're starting out — especially when it comes to meeting state registration and reporting requirements. Good templates align with the Australian Curriculum and help you map out learning areas, goals, and activities for the year, as well as document your child's progress for review.
We recommend the plan and report templates from Busy Books Australia. They offer a range of Australian Curriculum-aligned homeschool plan and report templates designed specifically for Australian families. These cover different year levels and make it straightforward to both plan your educational program and report on progress in a way that satisfies state authority requirements.
Having solid plan and report templates not only helps with compliance — it also gives you confidence and structure as you shape and track your child's learning journey.
Still have questions?
Our team is here to help you navigate your homeschooling journey.