Busting one myth at a time, implementing one method at a time—let’s talk about homeschool registration across Australia.

✨ A Quick Word Before We Dive In

If you're new here, Hi, I'm Marie! I'm a mum who never thought she’d homeschool, but here I am, years into this adventure. I started this podcast and blog five years into our homeschooling journey to offer connection, clarity, and a few laughs along the way.
Whether you’re considering homeschooling or knee-deep in curriculum choices, I know how confusing and daunting the registration part can be.

This post is here to break it down for you—one state at a time.

DISCLAIMER

This blog post is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Homeschooling requirements may change, so I encourage you to check directly with your state or territory's education authority for the most up-to-date details—or speak with a qualified education consultant if needed.

🗺️ How to Register for Homeschooling in Australia (A-Z)

🅐 Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

Authority: ACT Education Directorate
Compulsory Schooling Age: 6 to 17

  1. Submit an application with a personalised learning program.

  2. Provide proof of identity and residence.

  3. Participate in a home visit or interview.

  4. Receive a Certificate of Registration valid up to 2 years.

🔗 More info here

🅝 New South Wales (NSW)

Authority: NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA)
Compulsory Schooling Age: 6 to 17

  1. Apply through NESA.

  2. Submit a detailed education plan.

  3. Prepare for a home visit.

  4. Approval ranges from 6 months to 2 years.

🔗 More info here

🅝 Northern Territory (NT)

Authority: NT Department of Education
Compulsory Schooling Age: 6 to 17

  1. Apply with a Home Education Application.

  2. Include a learning plan and exemption from school.

  3. Expect annual reviews.

🔗 More info here

🅠 Queensland (QLD)

Authority: Home Education Unit (HEU)
Compulsory Schooling Age: 5 to 16

  1. Apply with a basic education summary.

  2. Receive provisional registration for 60 days.

  3. Submit an annual report to continue.

🔗 More info here

🅢 South Australia (SA)

Authority: SA Department for Education
Compulsory Schooling Age: 6 to 16

  1. Apply for a Certificate of Exemption.

  2. Submit a learning plan.

  3. Home visit required.

  4. Reviewed annually.

🔗 More info here

🅣 Tasmania (TAS)

Authority: Office of the Education Registrar (OER)
Compulsory Schooling Age: 5 to 17

  1. Submit a Home Education Notification.

  2. Provide a learning plan using the HELA framework.

  3. Reviewed annually.

🔗 More info here

🅥 Victoria (VIC)

Authority: Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority (VRQA)
Compulsory Schooling Age: 6 to 17

  1. Submit a simple registration form—no plan required upfront.

  2. Reviews may occur during registration period.

🔗 More info here

🅦 Western Australia (WA)

Authority: WA Department of Education
Compulsory Schooling Age: 5.5 to 17

  1. Contact your regional education office within 14 days of school withdrawal.

  2. Submit a form and prepare for annual moderator visits.

🔗 More info here

📘 Needing a bit more guidance?

Whether you're navigating forms, figuring out how to write a learning plan, or just unsure where to start—I’m here to help.

👉 Book a 1:1 session with me if you'd like guidance

Looking for clarity on homeschooling registration, rhythms, or starting points? You’ll find free guides, templates, and reflections throughout this blog. If something here resonates, feel free to reach out — I’d love to hear your story.