School Holidays in February 2026: Australia Guide

· school holidays in february 2026

Understanding School Holidays in February 2026

February marks the start of the new school year for most Australian students, following the long summer break. While there are typically no extended school holidays during February, the month often includes the tail end of summer holidays for some regions, pupil-free days, or public holidays that create short breaks. School calendars vary by state and territory, and exact dates for 2026 are usually released 12-18 months in advance.

This guide provides an overview based on historical patterns and proposed calendars. Families must verify all dates with their state or territory education department websites, as they are subject to change. Use this information to plan family time, travel, or local outings effectively.

State-by-State School Term Overview for Early 2026

Australia’s eight states and territories set their own schedules. Term 1 generally begins in late January or early February, with summer holidays wrapping up around Australia Day (January 26). Here’s a breakdown of expected timings for February 2026:

New South Wales (NSW)

NSW schools typically resume Term 1 on the last Tuesday in January. For 2026, this could mean students return around January 27-28, leaving little to no holiday time in February. Expect a possible pupil-free day early in the term. Public holidays like the upcoming Easter long weekend fall later. Check the NSW Department of Education site for the official 2026 calendar.

Victoria (VIC)

Victorian schools often start the school year on the last day of January. In 2026, Term 1 might begin January 27 (Australia Day public holiday), with full student days from January 28. February is fully in-term, but watch for Labour Day (early March). Verify via the Victorian Department of Education.

Queensland (QLD)

Queensland follows a similar pattern, with Term 1 starting late January (e.g., January 27-28 in 2026). February holidays are minimal, though regional variations exist for non-government schools. The Brisbane Australia Day long weekend might extend into late January. Consult the Queensland Department of Education for confirmed dates.

Western Australia (WA)

WA schools usually begin Term 1 on the first Wednesday after Australia Day, potentially February 4, 2026. This leaves the first few days of February as holiday extensions for some families. Perth’s Labour Day is in March. Always cross-check with the WA Department of Education.

South Australia (SA)

SA Term 1 starts around January 28, making February a standard term month. Adelaide Cup Day (long weekend in early May) is later. Pupil-free days may occur in the first week. Refer to the SA Department for Education.

Tasmania (TAS)

Tasmanian schools resume late January (e.g., January 27-28), with February focused on Term 1. Eight Hours Day labour holiday is March. Check the Tasmanian Department of Education.

Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

ACT aligns closely with NSW, starting Term 1 late January. February has no major breaks. Verify with ACT Education Directorate.

Northern Territory (NT)

NT schools often start later, around February 2-3. This could mean a short holiday period into early February. Top End community calendars vary. See NT Department of Education.

Public Holidays in February 2026

Public holidays provide welcome breaks even during term time:

  • Australia Day: Monday, January 26 (many states shift to nearest Monday if needed, but 2026 is a Tuesday—check local proclamations).
  • No nationwide February public holidays, but state-specific ones are rare. For example:
    • WA: Foundation Day is late September.
    • Others like Labour Day fall in March.

These create long weekends ideal for day trips. Gazetted dates are set by state governments—confirm via Fair Work Australia or state sites.

Family Activities and Travel Ideas for February 2026

With schools back, focus on weekends, public holidays, or short getaways. February’s mild weather (warmer in north, cooler south) suits outdoor fun:

Local Outings

  • Beach Days: Sydney’s Bondi or Gold Coast beaches for picnics.
  • Parks and Zoos: Taronga Zoo (NSW) or Melbourne Zoo—perfect for half-day visits.
  • Markets and Festivals: February often hosts summer festivals like Brisbane’s Riverfire prep events or Perth’s Fringe World (late Feb).

Short Travel Tips

  • Domestic Flights: Book early for Australia Day extended weekends. Qantas or Virgin Australia offer family deals.
  • Road Trips: Drive to nearby regions—e.g., NSW families to Blue Mountains, QLD to Sunshine Coast.
  • Staycations: Camp in national parks like Daintree (QLD) or Flinders Ranges (SA). Book via Parks Australia.
  • International: If aligning with school start, consider quick Bali trips (3-4 hours from east coast).

Budget-friendly: Use school holiday apps like TripADeal for packages. Pack sunscreen—UV index peaks in February.

Planning Tips for Families

  1. Mark Calendars Early: Download state education apps or subscribe to newsletters for 2026 updates (released mid-2025).
  2. Childcare for Pupil-Free Days: Book before-school care via Camp Australia.
  3. Work-Life Balance: Parents, negotiate flex hours around early term.
  4. Packing Essentials: School uniforms, stationery—Kmart or Officeworks stock up sales in January.
  5. Health Checks: Ensure vaccinations are current before term starts.
  6. Budgeting: Allocate for excursions (avg. $20-50/child) and fuel.

By staying informed, February 2026 can be a smooth transition into the school year with quality family moments. For personalised advice, contact your local school principal.

Word count: 748. All dates approximate—official verification essential.