Term Two School Holidays 2026: Australia Guide

· term two school holidays 2026

Introduction to Term Two School Holidays 2026

For Australian families planning ahead, Term Two school holidays in 2026 mark the mid-year break, typically falling in late June to early July. This winter holiday period offers a chance to recharge after the first half of the school year. However, exact dates vary by state and territory due to local education policies. Always verify the official 2026 calendar with your state’s education department website, as dates can shift slightly each year based on public holidays and legislative changes.

Searching for ‘term two school holidays 2026’ highlights the need for reliable planning info. This guide provides estimated dates, state breakdowns, family activity ideas, and practical travel tips to help you make the most of the break.

Typical Structure of Australian School Terms

Australia’s school year divides into four terms with holidays in between:

  • Term 1: Late January to late March/April (Autumn break follows).
  • Term 2: Late April to late June (Term 2 holidays).
  • Term 3: Late July to late September (Spring break).
  • Term 4: Late September to mid-December (Summer holidays).

Term 2 holidays usually last 10-14 days, coinciding with the Queen’s Birthday public holiday in some states (early June, but holidays start post-Term 2). In 2026, expect the break around 27 June to 11 July, but confirm locally. Non-government schools may align or vary slightly.

State-by-State Estimated Dates for Term Two 2026

While 2026 calendars aren’t finalised yet (typically released mid-2025), here’s a guide based on historical patterns. These are estimates only—check your state education department for confirmed dates.

New South Wales (NSW)

Estimated: Saturday 27 June to Sunday 12 July 2026 (2 weeks). Public schools follow the NSW Department of Education calendar. Popular for Sydney families heading to the Blue Mountains.

Victoria (VIC)

Estimated: Friday 26 June to Sunday 12 July 2026. Victorian Department of Education sets dates; aligns with King’s Birthday long weekend.

Queensland (QLD)

Estimated: Friday 26 June to Tuesday 14 July 2026 (about 2.5 weeks). Queensland Department of Education calendar; warmer weather suits beach trips.

Western Australia (WA)

Estimated: Saturday 27 June to Sunday 12 July 2026. WA Department of Education; Perth families often plan coastal escapes.

South Australia (SA)

Estimated: Saturday 27 June to Sunday 12 July 2026. SA Department for Education; Adelaide’s festivals may overlap.

Tasmania (TAS)

Estimated: Friday 26 June to Monday 13 July 2026. Tasmanian Department of Education; cooler weather for indoor family fun.

Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

Estimated: Aligns with NSW: 27 June to 12 July 2026. ACT Education Directorate.

Northern Territory (NT)

Estimated: 26 June to 13 July 2026. NT Department of Education; Darwin’s dry season makes it ideal for outdoors.

Use official sites like education.nsw.gov.au, education.vic.gov.au, or eq.edu.au for updates.

Planning Family Activities for Term Two Holidays

Term 2 breaks are winter-focused, so plan weather-appropriate fun:

  • Indoor Options: Museums (e.g., Australian Museum in Sydney), science centres, or trampoline parks.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Bushwalks, picnics if mild, or zoo visits.
  • Winter Sports: Skiing in NSW/VIC (Thredbo, Perisher open June-July).
  • Educational Outings: Hands-on STEM workshops or historical sites to extend learning.

Create a family calendar: Balance downtime with 2-3 activities daily. Free community events via local councils add value.

Family Travel Ideas During Term Two 2026

With 1-2 weeks off, domestic travel shines:

Interstate Road Trips

Drive from Brisbane to Gold Coast (QLD families) or Melbourne to Great Ocean Road (VIC). Fuel costs ~$200-400 return; book campsites early.

Ski Holidays

VIC/NSW snowfields peak: Perisher (4-7 day packages $1,500/family). Flights to Canberra then shuttle.

Beach Getaways

QLD/NT warmer spots like Cairns or Darwin. Short flights ($200-500 pp) for reef snorkelling.

City Breaks

Sydney Harbour, Melbourne laneways, or Perth beaches. Staycations save money.

Pro Tip: Book flights/hotels 6-9 months ahead via Qantas/Virgin for deals. Use school holiday sales.

Budgeting and Practical Tips

Average family cost: $1,000-5,000 depending on travel.

  • Accommodation: Caravans/parks cheaper ($150/night) vs hotels ($300+).
  • Meals: Self-cater; markets for picnics.
  • Transport: Drive if <500km; fly for longer.

Check for subsidies: Family Tax Benefit extras or state travel vouchers. Pack thermals for south; sunscreen north.

Safety first: Download emergency apps (e.g., VicEmergency). Supervise water activities.

Staying Organised Ahead of 2026

Mark your calendar now:

  1. Mid-2025: Check state sites for calendars.
  2. January 2026: Finalise plans.
  3. Book transport/accommodation.

Join parent Facebook groups for state-specific tips. Apps like School Holidays Australia notify updates.

Term two school holidays 2026 promise family bonding time. By verifying dates early and planning smartly, you’ll create lasting memories without stress. Happy holidays!