Homeschool Australia: FAQs

Homeschooling is a form of education where children are taught outside the traditional classroom setting. It involves a parent or guardian taking primary responsibility for a child's education.

There are lots of different types of homeschooling, including worldschooling, unschooling and methods based around replicating the school environment at home with set lesson plans, designated study areas and timetables.

Yes, homeschooling is legal in all Australian states and territories, each with its own requirements.

To register, you must apply to the education board in your state of residence.

In Australia, a clear distinction exists between homeschooling and distance education.

With distance education, you enroll through a school and are accountable to it, with the school determining the curriculum.

Homeschooled kids operate outside of this system.

Any parent or legal guardian can homeschool.

Legally, children aged 6 to 15 (5 in Tasmania) must be in school or homeschooled.

From 15 to 17, kids can leave school if they meet certain educational or vocational requirements.

Yes, unschooling is a recognized homeschooling method. However, you still need to provide an educational plan for registration.

Absolutely. You can start homeschooling at any time and can easily transition back to traditional schooling by applying as a new student.

While each state has its own guidelines, there's no specific package you must use.

Many new homeschoolers opt for purchased curricula and try to replicate school at home, but most change styles over time and find a style that is more suited their their individual child and circumstances.

Yes, you can homeschool at any educational stage, including high school.

Homeschoolers are not required to do exams to stay registered, but they can choose to take tests like NAPLAN or others.

Yes. Homeschooled students can pursue university education, including in competitive fields.

There are lots of alternative pathways to higher education.

Start by understanding your motives for homeschooling, observe your child's learning style and focus on building good family relationships.

Don’t get too caught up in the idea of “falling behind” or trying to replicate school at home and don’t waste a lot of money on resources and curricula that you will probably end up discarding.

Registration is free.

You can spend as much or as little as you like on things like curriculum, external lessons, and other activities.

We’re a bit biased, but we think travelling with other homeschoolers is one of the best ways to foster development and growth.

Check out the homeschool camps and trips we have coming up!

Homeschoolers can join various groups and community activities.

Many kids do volunteer work, are in organisations such as the Scouts, or attend homeschool camps and co-ops.

We have lots of different homeschool camps and co-ops listed on our website.

Homeschooling promotes diverse social interactions and positive peer relationships.

Many large families successfully homeschool multiple children, often finding it easier due to built-in playmates and closer sibling relationships.

Yes, homeschooling has been growing steadily in Australia, especially post-COVID, however, exact numbers are hard to determine.

Many homeschoolers are unregistered, but in 2019 there were more than 21,000 students registered for home education in Australia.

Advantages include tailored education and reduced exposure to bullying and harassment.

Disadvantages can include the need for significant parental commitment.

Socialisation is not a significant issue, contrary to common misconceptions.