When School Holidays 2026: Australian State Guide

· when school holidays 2026

When Are School Holidays in 2026? A Guide for Australian Families

School holidays are a highlight for Australian families, offering time for relaxation, travel, and making memories. If you’re searching for “when school holidays 2026,” you’re likely planning vacations, family reunions, or work schedules around term breaks. Australia’s school calendar varies by state and territory, with four main holiday periods each year: autumn, winter, spring, and summer.

Important note: The dates below are based on proposed or currently published schedules from state education departments as of mid-2024. These can change due to public holidays, elections, or other factors. Families must always verify exact dates directly with your state or territory’s education department website or school for the most up-to-date information. Public holidays like Easter and Australia Day may also affect schedules.

This guide covers all states and territories, helping you compare breaks and plan family travel. With holidays often aligning across states, popular spots like the Gold Coast or Great Ocean Road fill up fast—book early!

School Holiday Dates by State and Territory in 2026

Here’s a breakdown of the four holiday periods for 2026. Dates are approximate and inclusive (first day off to last day before term resumes).

New South Wales (NSW)

NSW schools typically follow these patterns:

  • Autumn holidays: 3 April – 20 April (around Easter)
  • Winter holidays: 27 June – 11 July
  • Spring holidays: 28 September – 12 October
  • Summer holidays: 19 December 2026 – 29 January 2027

NSW families often head to Sydney beaches or the Blue Mountains. Check the NSW Department of Education site for confirmations.

Victoria (VIC)

Victorian dates usually align closely with NSW:

  • Autumn holidays: 3 April – 20 April
  • Winter holidays: 27 June – 11 July
  • Spring holidays: 28 September – 12 October
  • Summer holidays: 19 December 2026 – 27 January 2027

Melbourne families love the Great Ocean Road or Phillip Island. Verify via the Victorian Department of Education.

Queensland (QLD)

Queensland has slightly different timings:

  • Easter holidays: 3 April – 14 April
  • Winter holidays: 27 June – 12 July
  • Spring holidays: 20 September – 5 October
  • Summer holidays: 12 December 2026 – 27 January 2027

Brisbane and Gold Coast are hotspots. Confirm with the Queensland Department of Education.

South Australia (SA)

SA schedules:

  • Autumn holidays: 3 April – 20 April
  • Winter holidays: 27 June – 12 July
  • Spring holidays: 28 September – 13 October
  • Summer holidays: 19 December 2026 – 6 February 2027

Adelaide’s wine regions or Kangaroo Island await. Check SA Education.

Western Australia (WA)

WA has unique dates:

  • Autumn holidays: 27 March – 14 April
  • Winter holidays: 27 June – 13 July
  • Spring holidays: 28 September – 13 October
  • Summer holidays: 19 December 2026 – 2 February 2027

Perth to Margaret River is popular. Verify with WA Department of Education.

Tasmania (TAS)

Tasmanian breaks:

  • Autumn holidays: 3 April – 21 April
  • Winter holidays: 27 June – 13 July
  • Spring holidays: 28 September – 13 October
  • Summer holidays: 19 December 2026 – 2 February 2027

Hobart’s Salamanca Market or Cradle Mountain. See Tasmanian Department of Education.

Northern Territory (NT)

NT dates:

  • Autumn holidays: 27 March – 14 April
  • Winter holidays: 29 June – 13 July
  • Spring holidays: 23 September – 6 October
  • Summer holidays: 19 December 2026 – 2 February 2027

Darwin’s Territory Day adds flair. Check NT Department of Education.

Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

ACT mirrors NSW:

  • Autumn holidays: 3 April – 20 April
  • Winter holidays: 29 June – 13 July
  • Spring holidays: 28 September – 13 October
  • Summer holidays: 19 December 2026 – 28 January 2027

Canberra’s Questacon is family-friendly. Confirm via ACT Education Directorate.

Planning Family Travel During 2026 School Holidays

With holidays spanning 2-6 weeks, interstate travel booms. Summer 2026-27 (December-January) is peak season, with families flocking to Queensland beaches or Victorian ski fields (if winter aligns with trips).

Top tips:

  • Book flights and accommodation 6-12 months ahead. Airlines like Qantas and Virgin Australia release schedules early.
  • Consider shoulder periods. Arrive just before holidays end for fewer crowds.
  • Budget for peaks. Expect 20-50% higher prices; use sites like Expedia or Wotif.
  • Road trips: Drive the Great Ocean Road (VIC) or Pacific Coast Highway (NSW/QLD). Rent caravans via Apollo Motorhome Holidays.
  • Stay local: National parks like Kakadu (NT) or Daintree (QLD) offer affordable adventures.

Watch for long weekends: King’s Birthday (June/July varies by state), AFL Grand Final (VIC, late Sep), and Labour Day.

Key Public Holidays Impacting 2026 Holidays

  • Australia Day: 26 January 2027 (extends summer break for some).
  • Easter: Around 3-6 April, boosting autumn holidays.
  • Anzac Day: 25 April (post-autumn).

State-specific: Queen’s Birthday (October in most, but varies).

How to Stay Updated on 2026 School Dates

  1. Visit your state education website (e.g., education.nsw.gov.au).
  2. Download apps like School Holidays Australia.
  3. Join parent forums on Facebook for local updates.
  4. Schools email calendars in Term 4 2025.

Why Planning Early Matters for Families

Early knowledge prevents last-minute stress. With 2026 holidays approaching, use this guide as a starting point. Whether camping in the Outback or city stays, balanced planning ensures fun for all ages.

Final reminder: These are indicative dates only. Contact your state education department or school principal for official 2026 term dates. Safe travels and happy holidays!

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