For your children

Schools

Education is compulsory for children aged 6 to 17 years, with pre-school places available from the age of 4.

The school year starts in late January and comprises four terms (each 10 weeks in duration on average). The major holiday break is during the summer in December and January. This is a perfect time for the family to take a well earned break and explore many attractions of Western Australia
(WA).

To find out more about schools visit these external websites:

• Find a government school (external site) 
• Look at private education through the Association of Independent Schools (external site) or the Catholic Education Office (external site).

Higher education

WA has 5 universities:

• Curtin University (external site) 
• Edith Cowan University (external site)
• Murdoch University (external site) 
• Notre Dame University (external site)
• University of Western Australia (external site).

There is also a statewide Technical and Further Education (TAFE) (external site) system.

Child care

Many child care options are available in WA, including family day care centres, creches and before and after school programs. All child care centres must be licensed.

Visit the The Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority (external site) for information.

Financial assistance

You may be eligible for government-funded family assistance payments (external site).