- A legally recognised alternative in every state and territory, provided you register with the responsible authority.
- NSW: the NSW Department of Education, using syllabuses set by the NSW Education Standards Authority. VIC: Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority. NSW Government, home schooling registration ↗, Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority ↗
- Every state requires registration; whether you need a written learning plan, and what it must cover, differs by state.
- VIC offers 'partial enrolment' for home-schooled students to attend a neighbourhood school for agreed activities. Victorian Department of Education ↗
- NDIS does not pay for schooling or curriculum, but existing funded supports can still be used around home-based learning.
Good for your child if...
- Mainstream and specialist options have not worked or are unavailable.
- Attending school has felt too hard for a while.
- Regional or remote areas without local options, though distance education may suit better because a school provides the teaching.
- A temporary bridge while waiting for a specialist placement.
Before you decide, know this:
- In NSW, your child must stay enrolled and keep attending school until your home schooling registration is granted, which can take up to 12 weeks. Check the rule in your state before withdrawing your child. NSW Government, registration at a glance ↗, NSW Government, submitting an application ↗
- A significant commitment of parental time and energy.
- Social development needs deliberate planning.
- Some school-based supports are not available to home-schooled students.
- Contact your state registration authority for requirements before starting.
