When Are School Easter Holidays in 2026 in Australia?

· when are the school easter holidays in 2026

When Are School Easter Holidays in 2026?

Planning family time during Easter school holidays in 2026? Australia’s school terms vary by state and territory, so Easter breaks—typically part of Term 1 holidays—differ across regions. Easter Sunday falls on April 5, 2026, with Good Friday on April 3 and Easter Monday on April 6 as public holidays. These dates influence school calendars, but exact holiday periods are set by each state’s education department.

Important note: The dates below are based on typical patterns and projections. Families must verify official 2026 term dates directly with their state or territory education department website, as they are usually published 6-12 months in advance. Changes can occur due to weather, events, or policy updates.

Easter 2026 Public Holidays

Australia observes several public holidays around Easter:

  • Good Friday: April 3, 2026 (Friday)
  • Easter Saturday: April 4, 2026 (Saturday, public holiday in some states like NSW and ACT)
  • Easter Sunday: April 5, 2026 (Sunday, public holiday in some states)
  • Easter Monday: April 6, 2026 (Monday)

These create a long weekend for most families, often extending into school holidays. Schools generally align Term 1 breaks to include Easter, lasting 2-3 weeks.

State-by-State Easter School Holidays 2026

Here’s a guide to expected Easter holiday periods in 2026. These are approximate, based on historical patterns where Term 1 ends mid-to-late April.

New South Wales (NSW)

NSW public schools typically end Term 1 around April 9-10, with holidays until April 27. Easter holidays 2026: Likely April 4 to April 27 (about 3 weeks). Check: NSW Department of Education.

Victoria (VIC)

Victorian schools often finish Term 1 on April 9, holidays to April 27. Easter break: Approximately April 4 to April 27. Verify at: Victorian Department of Education.

Queensland (QLD)

QLD Term 1 usually ends April 9, holidays until April 27. Easter period: Around April 4 to April 27. Confirm via: Queensland Department of Education.

South Australia (SA)

SA schools end Term 1 about April 9-10, holidays to May 5 (longer due to Anzac Day). Easter holidays: Likely April 4 to May 5. See: SA Department for Education.

Western Australia (WA)

WA public schools typically break April 3-28. Easter aligns closely: April 3 to April 28. Check: WA Department of Education.

Tasmania (TAS)

TAS Term 1 ends around April 10, holidays to May 4. Easter break: Approximately April 4 to May 4. Visit: Tasmanian Department of Education.

Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

ACT follows NSW closely, holidays likely April 4 to April 27. Confirm: ACT Education Directorate.

Northern Territory (NT)

NT schools end Term 1 April 9, holidays to May 5. Easter period: April 4 to May 5. Check: NT Department of Education.

Private and independent schools may vary slightly—always cross-check with your child’s school.

How to Confirm Official 2026 School Dates

  1. Visit State Websites: Each education department publishes calendars by Term 3 or 4 of the previous year.
  2. School Newsletters: Individual schools send term planners.
  3. Apps and Calendars: Use tools like School Holidays Australia app or government calendars.
  4. Public Holiday Sites: Fair Work Australia lists national and state holidays.

Mark your calendar now—dates firm up around October 2025.

Planning Family Easter Holidays

Easter breaks offer prime family time. With holidays spanning late March to early May in some areas, balance rest and adventure:

Travel Tips

  • Book Early: Popular spots like Gold Coast, Sydney beaches, or Great Ocean Road fill fast. Aim for shoulder weeks to avoid peaks.
  • Domestic Flights: Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar offer family deals. Watch for Easter surcharges.
  • Road Trips: Drive to regional areas—NSW Blue Mountains, VIC Yarra Valley, or QLD Sunshine Coast. Pack for variable April weather (15-25°C most places).
  • Accommodation: Campgrounds, holiday parks (e.g., BIG4), or Airbnbs. Look for Easter packages with kids’ activities.

Budgeting

Easter sees 10-20% price hikes. Save with:

  • School holiday passes for attractions.
  • Picnics over dining out.
  • Free events like Easter shows (Sydney Royal Easter Show: March 27-April 27, 2026—dates TBC).

Fun Easter Holiday Activities

Keep kids engaged without breaking the bank:

Outdoor Adventures

  • Beach Days: Surf lessons in QLD or beachcombing in WA.
  • Bushwalks: National parks like Daintree (QLD) or Cradle Mountain (TAS).
  • Easter Egg Hunts: Local parks or festivals.

Indoor Options

  • Museums: Questacon (ACT), Scienceworks (VIC)—holiday programs.
  • Zoos: Taronga (NSW), Lone Pine (QLD) with Easter feeding sessions.

At-Home Fun

  • Baking hot cross buns.
  • DIY crafts: Easter decorations from recyclables.
  • Family movie nights with Aussie classics like Babe.

Educational Twists

Tie into school: Nature journals for hikes, history of Easter in Australia.

Weather and Safety

April 2026 forecasts: Mild across Australia, but watch QLD/NT wet season tails and southern cold snaps. Pack layers, sunscreen, hats. Road safety: Avoid fatigue on long drives—plan stops.

Easter holidays blend relaxation, chocolate, and new memories. By checking official sources early, you’ll maximise family joy. Happy planning!

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