School Holidays in Australia 2025
Contents
Wondering when to plan your next family getaway or how to keep your kids entertained during the australian school holidays? Understanding the school holiday schedule in Australia is essential for anyone navigating the busy academic year. Whether you’re a student looking forward to the next holiday or a parent looking for the Best Tutoring Companies in Australia to keep your children busy, knowing when schools are closed is crucial for planning. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the school holidays in Australia for the 2025 academic year, including term breaks, public holidays, and exciting activities to keep your children engaged during these periods.
Overview of the School Term in Australia in 2025
In Australia, school terms and school holidays are scheduled by the state and territory governments, specifically by their respective Departments of Education, instead of the Australian Government, which reflects the decentralised nature of the Education System in Australia. The academic year for most schools typically starts in late January or early February and runs until mid-December. The school year is divided into four terms with breaks in between. Here’s a general outline:
- Term 1: Starts in late January or early February and ends in late March or early April.
- Term 2: Starts in mid to late April and ends in late June or early July.
- Term 3: Starts in mid to late July and ends in late September or early October.
- Term 4: Starts in early to mid-October and ends in mid-December.
The specific dates can vary slightly depending on the state or territory, as each has its own education department that sets the calendar. In 2025, the academic year in Australia will generally begin as follows:
- New South Wales: Term 1 starts on January 31 for Eastern division and February 7 for Western division.
- Victoria: Students start on January 29.
- Queensland: The school year begins on January 28.
- South Australia: School starts on January 28.
- Western Australia: The academic year starts on February 5.
- Australian Capital Territory: New students start on February 3, while returning students begin on February 4.
- Northern Territory: The school year starts on January 29.
- Tasmania: The academic year begins on February 6.
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Public Holidays in Australia 2025
Similar to Holidays in Canada, public holiday dates in Australia are determined by state and territory governments, often influenced by historical events, cultural significance, or observance of national celebrations. On these days, schools are closed, and most businesses either close or operate with reduced hours. Some of the key public holidays during the 2024-2025 academic year include:
- 1 January: New Year’s Day (National)
- 8 January: Devonport Cup (Tasmania)
- 27 January: Australia Day Holiday (National)
- 10 February: Royal Hobart Regatta (Tasmania)
- 26 February: Launceston Cup (Tasmania)
- 3 March: Labour Day (Western Australia)
- 4 March: King Island Show (Tasmania)
- 10 March: Canberra Day (ACT), Adelaide Cup Day (SA), Labour Day (Victoria and Tasmania)
- 18 April: Good Friday (National)
- 20 April: Easter Sunday (National)
- 21 April: Easter Monday (National)
- 22 April: Easter Tuesday (Tasmania)
- 25 April: Anzac Day (National)
- 5 May: May Day (Northern Territory), Labour Day (Queensland)
- 2 June: Reconciliation Day (ACT), Western Australia Day (WA)
- 9 June: King’s Birthday (National except Queensland and WA)
- 4 August: Picnic Day (Northern Territory)
- 13 August: The Ekka (Queensland)
- 29 September: King’s Birthday (WA)
- 6 October: Labour Day (ACT, NSW, and SA), King’s Birthday (WA)
- 3 November: Melbourne Cup Day (Victoria)
- 25 December: Christmas Day (National)
- 26 December: Boxing Day (National), Proclamation Day (SA)
- 31 December: New Year’s Eve (NT and SA)
This list covers public holidays observed across different states and territories in Australia during the academic year 2024-2025. Remember that public holidays can lead to school closures and, in many cases, businesses may also close or operate on reduced hours.
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Public and Private School Term Breaks in Australia 2025
School term dates for public schools in Australia are set by each state and territory’s Department of Education, and these school holiday dates generally follow a similar pattern, but there can be slight variations in private schools and international schools such as those following the International Baccalaureate (IB). Here’s a general outline for the 2025 academic year:
Public Schools
Term 1 Break: Approximately 2 weeks in April, typically aligned with the Easter holidays. This is a great time for families to enjoy the mild autumn weather across the country.
Term 2 Break: Approximately 2 weeks in July, coinciding with the winter season. This break is ideal for winter sports and activities, particularly in the southern states where snow sports are popular.
Term 3 Break: Approximately 2 weeks in late September to early October. This spring break offers a perfect opportunity to explore Australia’s blossoming landscapes and warmer weather.
Term 4 Break: The summer holidays begin in mid-December and extend until late January 2026, marking the longest break of the year. Families often use this time for extended vacations, beach outings, and festive celebrations.
School term dates for government schools in Australia are set by each state and territory’s Department of Education. These dates can vary slightly depending on specific schools or regions. For example, the state of Victoria has a slightly longer autumn break compared to the state of NSW and its holidays also start earlier. To prevent confusion, it’s always a good idea to check with your local state’s education authority, such as the official New South Wales calendar 2025 and the official Victoria calendar 2025, for the most accurate information. Furthermore, private and international schools may have slightly different schedules, so contact your child’s school for the specific applicable holiday dates.
Private Schools
Private schools in Australia often set their own term dates, which can differ slightly from public schools. These schools may have longer breaks during Easter and Christmas and might start or finish the academic year at different times. If your child attends a private school, it’s important to consult the school’s specific calendar for the exact dates.
International Schools
International schools in Australia, particularly those offering the IB programme, may follow a different calendar aligned with global schedules. These schools often cater to expatriate families and may have term breaks that coincide with international holidays or the school calendars of other countries. If you’re looking for extra academic support during these breaks, especially for intense and compact curricula like the IB, consider finding an IB tutor in Australia. The benefits of private tutoring on students' studies are supported by empirical evidence. What's more, what's better than staying indoors, cosying up on the couch and reading books to spend the long wintry months in Australia?
According to an IB tutor in Melbourne,
“During school term breaks, IB students should take advantage of the city's resources, like visiting museums or participating in local workshops, while also dedicating time to review tough subjects and work on their extended essays. Balancing these activities with rest will help them stay ahead and return to school refreshed.”Additional School Holidays in Australia in 2025
Beyond the standard term breaks and public holidays, some schools may also observe additional holidays, such as school development days and pupil-free days, which are typically used for teacher training and development. These dates vary by school and are usually announced at the start of the academic year. Parents should stay informed about these days to plan accordingly, especially if they need to arrange childcare or other activities.
List of School Holiday Activities Ideas
Keeping your children occupied during school holidays in 2025 doesn’t have to be a challenge. Here are five engaging activities to consider:
- Outdoor Adventures: Explore Australia’s natural beauty by going bushwalking, camping, or visiting one of the country’s stunning national parks. Places like the Great Barrier Reef, the Blue Mountains, or the Great Ocean Road offer memorable experiences for the whole family.
- Cultural Experiences: Visit museums, art galleries, or historical sites to introduce your children to Australia’s rich cultural heritage. For example, the Australian War Memorial in Canberra or the Melbourne Museum provides educational and interactive experiences.
- Creative Workshops: Many local community centres and art schools offer holiday workshops where children can learn new skills like painting, pottery, or drama. These workshops encourage creativity and help kids develop talents they might not explore during the school year.
- Sports Camps: Enrol your child in a sports camp, whether it’s for football, cricket, swimming, or even surfing. These camps provide a great way for kids to stay active, make new friends, and learn teamwork.
- Private Tutoring: The holidays are also a great time to reinforce learning or get ahead in challenging subjects. It has never been easier to access private tutors such as an IB tutor in Sydney or IB tutor in Brisbane, who can provide one-on-one, personalised academic support to students during the break.
Conclusion
Understanding the school holiday schedule in Australia for the 2024-2025 academic year is essential for effective planning, whether it’s for family vacations, activities, or educational support. The term dates, public holidays, and additional school closures offer numerous opportunities for rest, recreation, and enrichment. By staying informed and planning ahead, you can ensure that your children’s school holidays are enjoyable and productive, helping them return to school refreshed and ready to learn.
For more detailed information about school holidays, consult your state’s Department of Education or your child’s school, and explore the many activities and resources available to make the most of these breaks.
FAQ
What options are available for childcare during school holidays in Australia?
During school holidays, many parents turn to holiday programs, camps, or vacation care services for childcare. These programs, often offered by schools, community centres, and private organisations, provide a range of activities from sports to arts and crafts, ensuring that children are engaged and cared for during the break. Some programs are specifically designed for working parents, offering full-day care. Additionally, many families opt for hiring babysitters or enrolling their children in short courses, such as swimming lessons or academic tutoring, to balance fun and learning.
What are some unique cultural experiences students can participate in during holidays in Australia?
Australia offers a wealth of cultural experiences for students during the holidays. They can visit iconic sites such as the Sydney Opera House or the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, explore Indigenous culture through art galleries like the National Gallery of Australia, or participate in local festivals. Melbourne’s vibrant arts scene, including events like the Melbourne International Comedy Festival or the National Gallery of Victoria, provides ample opportunities for cultural enrichment. Engaging in these activities not only broadens students' horizons but also deepens their understanding of Australia’s diverse cultural landscape.
Are there any educational programs available during the holidays that focus on environmental conservation?
Yes, Australia offers various educational programs during the holidays that focus on environmental conservation. Many national parks and conservation organisations host holiday programs where students can learn about local wildlife, participate in conservation projects, or join guided nature walks. Programs like Junior Rangers or volunteer opportunities with organisations such as Conservation Volunteers Australia provide hands-on experiences in preserving the environment. These activities are not only educational but also foster a sense of responsibility and connection to the natural world, helping students develop a deeper appreciation for Australia’s unique ecosystems.
What should international students consider when planning their school holidays in Australia?
International students should consider several factors when planning their school holidays in Australia. Firstly, they need to check if their visa conditions allow travel outside Australia during holidays. It’s also important to be aware of the specific term dates of their school, as they might differ slightly from those of local schools. Additionally, international students should plan for the climate and activities in Australia, which might differ significantly from their home country. They may also want to explore local Australian culture or participate in school-organised activities to make the most of their time during the break.
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Written by: Vicky Liu
Vicky has an undergraduate degree from The University of Hong Kong and a Masters from University College London, and has a background in legal and educational writing.
