Updated 19 October 2026 · General information, not advice
Australia has a national curriculum, but schools are run by the states and territories. Moving interstate means dealing with a new department, new enrolment rules and sometimes a different year-level structure.
Before you move
- Choose your new address with the school zone in mind and check it with the state’s official tool.
- Contact the new school early, especially if you are moving mid-year.
- Ask the current school for the latest report, any learning support plans and a transfer note.
Year levels and starting ages
Cut-off dates for starting school differ between states. A child who is in the first year of school in one state may be placed in a different year in another. Schools will normally consider the child’s age, previous schooling and wellbeing when deciding the year level.
Timing the move
School terms are set by each state and do not line up exactly. Moving during the holidays reduces disruption, but most schools are used to students starting mid-term.
Senior students
Each state has its own senior certificate (for example HSC in NSW, VCE in Victoria, QCE in Queensland, WACE in WA and SACE in SA). Changing states in Years 11 or 12 can affect subject choices and credit, so talk to both schools before you commit.