Education and Childcare
Education in Australia is high quality and mostly free or subsidised in the public system.
This guide covers childcare, school and adult study – and the support available for newly arrived families.
Childcare (0 - 5 years)
- Options: long day care, family day care, occasional care, and free or low-cost playgroups (including many multicultural playgroups).
- The Child Care Subsidy reduces fees for eligible families - apply through Centrelink; eligibility depends on visa type.
School (ages ~5 - 18)
- School is compulsory from about age 6 to 17. Public schools are free apart from small voluntary contributions and uniforms.
- Enrol at your local public school with your child's passport, visa, vaccination record and proof of address.
- Newly arrived students get free intensive English programs in public schools.
- Schools provide interpreters for parent meetings - just ask.
After school: TAFE and university
- TAFE: practical courses and trades; subsidised places and concessions, including some free courses for eligible students.
- University: entry via school results, TAFE pathways or mature-age entry. Fees differ greatly between citizens/PRs and international students.
- Overseas qualifications can be assessed for study credit - ask the institution.
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