BIG Changes: School Fees for Temporary Visa Holders in Australia – What You Need to Know in 2025

If I’m moving to Australia on a temporary visa like the Subclass 482, 491, or 494, will my children be able to attend school—and how much will it cost?

Well, great news! As of 2024, all Australian states and territories now offer significant reductions or full exemptions on public school fees for the children of temporary visa holders. This means that accessing high-quality education is more affordable than ever, removing one of the biggest barriers for skilled professionals considering a move to Australia.

In this blog, we’ll break down the latest updates on school fees for temporary visa holders, state by state, and explain how you can make sure your children’s education is well taken care of as you settle into life in Australia.

Free or Low-Cost Public Education for Temporary Visa Holders: What’s Changed?

Before 2024, school fees for the children of temporary visa holders varied significantly depending on the state or territory. Some states charged thousands of dollars per year, while others offered full exemptions—but only for certain visa types.

Now, all Australian states and territories have aligned their policies, making public education free or significantly reduced for children of temporary visa holders on the Subclass 482, 491, and 494 visas.

This is a huge win for skilled professionals like nurses and healthcare workers, who are in high demand across Australia. The removal of these school fees means that families migrating on a temporary visa can access the same education opportunities as Australian citizens and permanent residents.

How Public Schools Work in Australia

Australia’s public school system provides education for primary (Kindergarten/Prep – Year 6) and secondary (Years 7–12) students.

✅ Schooling is compulsory for children aged 6 to 16, but most students continue to Year 12 to receive their Senior Secondary Certificate of Education (SSCE).

✅ Public schools are government-funded and offer high-quality education.

✅ While education is free for Australian citizens and permanent residents, temporary visa holders previously faced high tuition fees.

With the 2024 policy changes, temporary migrants no longer need to pay these fees in most states, making migration even more affordable for skilled workers bringing their families to Australia.

State-by-State Breakdown: School Fees for Subclass 482, 491, and 494 Visa Holders

Wondering what the policy is in your future home state? Here’s how each Australian state and territory now handles education fees for temporary visa holders:

New South Wales (NSW) 📍 Sydney

✅ Public schools are now free for children of Subclass 482, 491, and 494 visa holders.

✅ Previously, families had to pay up to AUD $5,000 per year per child—this fee has now been completely removed.

Victoria 📍 Melbourne

✅ Full exemption from public school fees for children of temporary visa holders.

✅ Victoria is actively attracting skilled nurses and healthcare professionals, and this policy makes the move even more affordable.

Queensland 📍 Brisbane, Gold Coast, Cairns

✅ Queensland has long offered reduced fees, but now, all 482, 491, and 494 visa holders receive full exemptions.

✅ A great incentive for regional migration, particularly for healthcare professionals moving under the Subclass 491 and 494 visas.

South Australia 📍 Adelaide

✅ As of 2024, all public school fees have been removed for children of Subclass 482, 491, and 494 visa holders.

✅ This makes South Australia a more attractive option for skilled workers, especially in the healthcare sector.

Western Australia 📍 Perth

✅ Previously, WA had some of the highest school fees, ranging from AUD $4,000 – $6,000 per year per child.

✅ Now, public education is free for children of temporary visa holders—a huge financial relief for families moving to WA.

Tasmania 📍 Hobart

✅ Tasmania has maintained a no-fee policy for public schools for Subclass 482, 491, and 494 visa holders.

✅ Tasmania is becoming increasingly popular among migrants looking for a quieter lifestyle with excellent healthcare job opportunities.

Australian Capital Territory (ACT) 📍 Canberra

✅ Public schools in the ACT are now free for children of temporary visa holders, aligning with national changes.

✅ Canberra remains a top destination for skilled workers due to its high salaries and quality of life.

Northern Territory 📍 Darwin

✅ School fees have been completely waived for Subclass 482, 491, and 494 visa holders.

✅ NT has a huge demand for skilled healthcare workers, and lower living costs make it a great place to settle.

How to Enrol Your Child in an Australian Public School

The enrolment process for temporary migrants is similar to that for Australian citizens and permanent residents:

1️⃣ Find Your School: Many public schools have zoning requirements, meaning your child may need to attend the school closest to your home.

2️⃣ Submit an Application: Most schools require proof of visa status, address, and birth certificate.

3️⃣ Prepare for School Life: While tuition is free, you may need to purchase uniforms, textbooks, and pay for extracurricular activities.

Other Education Options: Private & International Schools

While most temporary visa holders choose public schools due to lower costs, private and international schools are also available.

✅ Private schools: Offer smaller class sizes and specialised curriculums, but charge tuition fees.

✅ International schools: Offer programs like the International Baccalaureate (IB) or British curriculum—ideal for families who may move again.

Final Thoughts: Why These Changes Matter for Skilled Migrants

These 2024 education policy updates are a massive win for skilled workers looking to migrate to Australia with their families.

For nurses, midwives, and healthcare professionals on a Subclass 482, 491, or 494 visa, this means:

✅ No more expensive school fees—saving you thousands of dollars per year.

✅ A top-quality education system for your children at no extra cost.

✅ The chance to focus on your career while knowing your family is well taken care of.

Ready to make your move? Book a consultation today for expert migration advice!

📌 Book a consultation: www.solvi.com.au/book-a-consult

📌 Nurse Registration Course: www.nurseregistration.com