Moving to a new country with children involves more than finding a home and settling into a new routine. Understanding how your child’s education will work is also an important part of preparing for the move. If you’re moving from Dubai to Australia, you may notice some differences in school years, enrolment processes and the types of schools available.
Australia offers a mix of government, Catholic and independent schools, with education managed largely by individual states and territories. This means some requirements, school starting ages and enrolment processes can vary depending on where you choose to live. Here’s what new migrant families need to know.
How Does the Australian School System Work?
Australian schooling generally covers 13 years, beginning with Foundation, Prep or Kindergarten and continuing through Year 12. School attendance becomes compulsory from around age six, with the exact leaving age depending on the state or territory.
The academic year usually begins in late January or early February and finishes around December. It is divided into four school terms, with holidays between each term and a longer break over the summer period.
Education is broadly divided into primary school, secondary school and senior secondary education.
What Are the Different School Years?
Primary School
Primary education begins with Foundation, Prep or Kindergarten, depending on the state, and generally continues through Year 6. In some states and territories, primary school may extend to Year 7.
Children develop core skills in areas such as English, mathematics, science and other subjects while also taking part in physical education, arts and other activities.
Secondary School
Secondary or high school generally begins in Year 7 and continues through Year 10, although the starting year can differ between states.
Students study a broader range of subjects and gradually have more opportunities to choose subjects that match their interests, abilities and future plans.
Senior Secondary School
Years 11 and 12 make up senior secondary education. Students usually begin focusing more closely on subjects and qualifications that support their plans after school.
At the end of Year 12, students receive a senior secondary certificate issued under their state’s or territory’s education system. Their results may be used when applying for university, vocational education or other further study.
What Types of Schools Are Available in Australia?
Families can generally choose between government schools, Catholic schools and independent private schools.
Government schools are publicly funded and are generally free for Australian citizens and eligible permanent residents, although families may still be asked to contribute towards school materials, activities, uniforms or other expenses. Enrolment is commonly linked to where the family lives, so your residential address can determine which local school you can attend.
Catholic and independent schools charge tuition fees, although the amount varies considerably between schools. These schools usually have their own enrolment procedures and may follow particular religious, educational or philosophical approaches.
When choosing a school, families should consider not only fees but also location, curriculum, extracurricular activities, facilities and the school’s approach to supporting new students.
How Do New Migrant Families Enrol Their Children?
The enrolment process can vary between states, territories and individual schools, so it is important to check the requirements for your chosen location.
Schools may ask parents or guardians to provide documents such as:
- Passport and visa documentation
- Proof of residential address, such as a lease or utility bill
- The child’s birth certificate
- Previous school reports or academic records
- Immunisation records
- Relevant medical or additional support information
If your child has previously attended school overseas, providing their academic records can help the school understand their education history and determine the most suitable year level.
What About Immunisation Records?
Immunisation information may be required when enrolling a child in an Australian school.
If your child was vaccinated overseas, you may need to have their records translated and added to the Australian Immunisation Register through an Australian healthcare professional. Requirements can differ between states, so families should check the relevant state or territory education and health guidance before enrolment.
Will Children Receive English Language Support?
For families moving to Australia from abroad, settling into a new education system and school environment can take time, especially if English isn’t your child’s first language.
Many Australian schools offer extra English language support to help students build their skills. Some public school systems also run dedicated Intensive English Centres or similar programs specifically for newly arrived students from non-English-speaking backgrounds.
The exact support available varies by state, school, and each child’s needs. Parents should discuss the options with the school during the enrolment process to understand what programs are offered.
What Should Migrant Parents Consider When Choosing a School?
Finding the right school is about more than simply choosing the closest option. Before enrolling your child, consider their age, previous education, language needs and future study plans.
It can also be useful to look at:
- The school’s location and transport options
- School fees and additional costs
- Curriculum and subject choices
- English language support
- Extracurricular activities
- Student wellbeing services
- Enrolment requirements
- School facilities and resources
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age do children start school in Australia?
The starting age varies between states and territories. Children generally begin formal schooling around five or six years old, while compulsory education usually starts from around age six.
Is public school free in Australia?
Government schools are generally free for Australian citizens and eligible permanent residents, although families may still have expenses for uniforms, books, excursions, materials and other school-related activities. Fees and eligibility can differ for some temporary visa holders.
Can migrant children receive English language support?
Yes. Many schools provide English language assistance for students who are learning English as an additional language. Some education systems also have specialised programs for newly arrived migrant students.
If you’re planing to migrate to Australia, IMM Consults can help you understand the migration process and prepare for the practical steps involved in starting your new life in Australia. From visa guidance to settling-in considerations, our team can help you navigate your journey with greater clarity and confidence.
