School Finder

Find public schools near you — with enrolment tips for new migrants

Schools near you

Click a link below to search the official directories for :

Tip: MySchool shows NAPLAN results, ICSEA scores (socio-educational advantage), and student numbers. Higher ICSEA doesn't always mean better — it measures the school's community, not teaching quality.
School Types in Australia
G

Government (Public) Schools

Free for all Australian residents and most visa holders. Funded by the government. You enrol at your local zoned school based on your address.

Cost: Free (small voluntary contributions ~$50-200/year)
C

Catholic Schools

Low-cost private schools run by the Catholic church. Open to all faiths. Generally good academic results with lower fees than independent schools.

Cost: ~$1,500-$5,000/year primary, $3,000-$10,000/year secondary
I

Independent (Private) Schools

Private schools with their own governance. Wide range from affordable to elite. May have specific entry requirements or waiting lists.

Cost: $5,000-$40,000+/year
For visa holders: Your children can attend public school on most visas. Temporary visa holders (482, 500, 417) may need to pay international student fees ($5,000-$15,000/year) depending on your state. Partner visa (820/309), regional visa (491/494), and humanitarian visa holders usually pay domestic (free) rates.
Enrolment Tips for New Migrants
  • You enrol at your local zoned school. In Australia, each public school has a catchment zone based on your home address. You have a right to enrol at your zoned school.
  • Enrolment is free for most visa holders. Citizens, PR, partner visa (820/309), humanitarian, and NZ citizens pay nothing at public schools.
  • You can enrol mid-year. Unlike some countries, Australian schools accept enrolments at any time during the year. You don't need to wait for a new term.
  • English support is free. If your child doesn't speak English fluently, schools provide free ESL (English as a Second Language) support through specialist teachers.
  • School starts at age 5. Children can start Kindergarten (Prep/Foundation in VIC/QLD) the year they turn 5. It's compulsory from age 6.
  • The school year runs Feb to Dec. Four terms of about 10 weeks each, with 2-week breaks between terms and 6 weeks over Christmas/summer.
  • Uniforms are required. Most Australian schools have uniforms. They're usually available second-hand from the school's P&C for $5-20 per item.
  • Bring your visa and address proof. To enrol, you'll need your child's passport, visa grant letter, proof of address (utility bill or rental agreement), and immunisation history.
Enrolment Document Checklist

Planning where to live?

Use our Rent Affordability Calculator to find suburbs that fit your budget.

Rent Calculator