Australian School Holidays 2026: Complete Guide by State

Understanding Australian School Terms

Australian schools typically operate on a four-term system, with the school year running from late January to mid-December. Each state and territory sets its own term dates, which can vary by several days or even weeks. This guide focuses on government school dates; private and independent schools may have slightly different schedules.

The four school terms are generally structured as follows:

• Term 1: Late January to early April (approximately 10 weeks)
• Term 2: Late April to late June (approximately 10 weeks)
• Term 3: Mid-July to mid-September (approximately 10 weeks)
• Term 4: Early October to mid-December (approximately 10 weeks)

School holidays typically last around two weeks between terms, with the exception of the summer holidays (December to January), which extend for approximately six to seven weeks.

New South Wales School Holidays 2026

New South Wales, home to Sydney and Australia's largest student population, follows a standard four-term structure. NSW school holidays are typically aligned with public holidays where possible.

NSW School Holiday Periods 2026

• Autumn Holidays: Friday 10 April - Monday 27 April (Easter included)
• Winter Holidays: Saturday 4 July - Sunday 19 July
• Spring Holidays: Saturday 26 September - Sunday 11 October
• Summer Holidays: Saturday 19 December 2026 - Wednesday 27 January 2027

NSW families often use the autumn holidays to visit the South Coast, Blue Mountains, or take advantage of Easter camping trips. The winter break aligns well with school holiday ski programs at Thredbo and Perisher.

Victoria School Holidays 2026

Victoria's school calendar is set by the Department of Education and caters to students across Melbourne and regional areas. Victorian school holidays typically start a day or two earlier than NSW.

VIC School Holiday Periods 2026

• Autumn Holidays: Saturday 28 March - Sunday 12 April
• Winter Holidays: Saturday 27 June - Sunday 12 July
• Spring Holidays: Saturday 19 September - Sunday 4 October
• Summer Holidays: Saturday 19 December 2026 - Wednesday 27 January 2027

Victorian families enjoy winter holiday trips to Mt Buller, Falls Creek, and Mt Hotham for skiing. The Great Ocean Road and Phillip Island are popular autumn and spring holiday destinations.

Queensland School Holidays 2026

Queensland's school calendar differs notably from southern states, with term dates designed to accommodate the state's tropical climate. The shorter winter break reflects Queensland's milder weather.

QLD School Holiday Periods 2026

• Autumn Holidays: Friday 3 April - Sunday 19 April
• Winter Holidays: Saturday 27 June - Sunday 12 July
• Spring Holidays: Saturday 19 September - Monday 5 October
• Summer Holidays: Saturday 12 December 2026 - Monday 26 January 2027

Queensland families are spoiled for choice with holiday destinations including the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Great Barrier Reef, and the Whitsundays. Winter holidays are ideal for visiting tropical North Queensland when the weather is perfect.

South Australia School Holidays 2026

South Australian schools follow a calendar set by the SA Department for Education. Adelaide and regional SA schools generally share the same term dates.

South Australian families often explore the Flinders Ranges, Kangaroo Island, and the Barossa Valley during school holidays. The Adelaide Hills provide a convenient escape for short autumn and spring breaks.

Western Australia School Holidays 2026

Western Australia operates on its own school calendar, which can differ significantly from eastern states. WA's vast distances mean school holiday travel planning is particularly important for regional families.

Western Australian families enjoy school holiday trips to Margaret River, Broome, Coral Bay, and Rottnest Island. The spring holidays coincide with wildflower season, perfect for exploring the state's famous spring blooms.

Tasmania School Holidays 2026

Tasmania's school calendar accommodates the state's cooler climate and tourism industry. Tasmanian families often coordinate holidays with mainland relatives.

Tasmania offers incredible school holiday experiences including Cradle Mountain, Freycinet National Park, and MONA in Hobart. Winter holidays are perfect for cozy cabin stays and exploring the state's historic sites.

Northern Territory School Holidays 2026

The Northern Territory has a unique school calendar that accounts for the tropical wet and dry seasons. The calendar is designed to maximise learning during the more comfortable dry season months.

Northern Territory families make the most of the dry season (May-October) for camping trips to Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks. Winter school holidays offer ideal weather for exploring the outback and Alice Springs.

ACT School Holidays 2026

The Australian Capital Territory school calendar is set by the ACT Education Directorate. Canberra families often coordinate with NSW schedules for interstate travel.

ACT families enjoy easy access to the NSW South Coast, Snowy Mountains, and Sydney during school holidays. Canberra's national institutions offer excellent school holiday programs for children of all ages.

Planning Tips for Parents

Making the most of school holidays requires planning. Here are our top tips for Australian families:

Book Early for Peak Periods

School holiday accommodation at popular destinations books out months in advance. For summer holidays especially, consider booking 6-12 months ahead for coastal destinations like Byron Bay, Noosa, and the Great Ocean Road.

Consider Off-Peak Alternatives

The first and last few days of school holidays often offer better availability and prices. Travelling mid-week during holidays can also reduce costs and crowds.

Coordinate with Other States

If you're visiting interstate family, check their school holiday dates. Some states have different term dates, which can affect planning for family reunions and multi-state trips.

Look for School Holiday Programs

Many organisations offer school holiday programs including:

• Local councils and community centres
• Museums and galleries
• Sports clubs and recreation centres
• YMCA and similar youth organisations
• Private vacation care providers

Plan Around Public Holidays

Easter and Christmas holidays overlap with school breaks, meaning accommodation will be at premium prices. Consider celebrating these holidays at home and travelling during quieter school holiday periods.

Check for Pupil-Free Days

Schools often schedule pupil-free days at the start or end of terms for teacher professional development. Check with your school for these additional days off that might extend your holiday options.