Thinking about homeschooling in New South Wales?

You’re not alone. Every year, more NSW families choose home education because it offers flexibility, personalised learning, and the opportunity to tailor education to their child’s unique needs.

While every Australian state has different homeschooling requirements, New South Wales is generally considered one of the more regulated states. That doesn’t mean it’s difficult—it simply means there are a few extra steps compared to states like Queensland, including a home visit from an Authorised Person.

If you’re considering homeschooling, here’s what you need to know.

Is Homeschooling Legal in NSW?

Yes! Homeschooling is completely legal in New South Wales.

Parents can choose home schooling as a long-term educational option, but children must be registered with the NSW Department of Education before they can be homeschooled. (NSW Government)

You can find the official information about registering here:

NSW Home Schooling – Applying to Register

Step 1: Prepare an Educational Program

Before submitting your application, you’ll need to prepare an educational program for your child.

This doesn’t mean writing hundreds of pages of lesson plans. Instead, you’ll outline:

What your child will be learning.
The resources you plan to use.
How you’ll support their learning.
How your program will meet your child’s individual needs.

One of the great things about homeschooling is that learning doesn’t have to look like school. Reading together, cooking, nature walks, museums, projects and everyday life can all form part of your educational program.

Step 2: Submit Your Application

Once you’re happy with your educational program, you can apply for registration with the NSW Department of Education.

Applications can be made throughout the year.

The Department will ask for supporting documents, such as proof of your child’s identity, proof of your NSW address, and any relevant court orders if applicable. (NSW Government)

Step 3: Prepare for the Home Visit

One of the biggest differences between homeschooling in NSW and many other Australian states is the home visit.

After your application is lodged, it is allocated to an Authorised Person from the Department of Education. They will contact you to arrange a visit to your home. (NSW Government)

Many new homeschoolers worry about this step, but it’s usually much more relaxed than they expect.

The visit is designed to:

Discuss your educational program.
Ensure you understand your responsibilities.
Answer any questions you have.
Confirm that your proposed program can meet the registration requirements.

Importantly, your child is not being tested during the visit. The discussion is focused on your educational plan and how you intend to provide learning at home. (NSW Government)

If you’d like to know exactly what to expect, the NSW Government has a helpful guide:

Assessment by an Authorised Person (Home Visit)

Step 4: Receive Your Registration

If your application is approved, you’ll receive a home schooling registration certificate.

Registration is usually granted for a set period, after which you’ll apply for renewal. During renewal, you’ll discuss the learning that has taken place and provide records of your child’s educational program. (NSW Government)

What Should You Teach?

NSW home educators base their educational program on the NSW syllabuses, but you’re free to decide how you teach them.

Many families use a combination of:

Workbooks
Library books
Online learning
Unit studies
Educational games
Nature study
Excursions
Hands-on projects

Homeschooling is flexible. You don’t have to recreate a classroom at home.

Keep Records of Learning

Throughout the year it’s helpful to keep simple records such as:

Photos of projects
Writing samples
Reading lists
Artwork
Maths work
Excursion notes
Weekly learning summaries

These make renewal much easier and help demonstrate your child’s progress.

NSW vs Queensland: What’s the Difference?

One question many Australian parents ask is how NSW compares with Queensland.

While both states require children to be registered, Queensland’s registration process is generally considered simpler. Families apply with an educational program summary and submit an annual report each year, but there is no routine home visit as part of the standard registration process. (Education)

In NSW, the home visit is a standard part of the application process and gives parents an opportunity to discuss their educational program with an Authorised Person. (NSW Government)

Neither system is necessarily better—they simply provide different levels of oversight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a qualified teacher?

No. Parents do not need teaching qualifications to homeschool in New South Wales. The parent is responsible for planning and delivering the educational program. (NSW Government)

Can my child return to school later?

Yes. Many children move between homeschooling and traditional schooling throughout their education.

Is homeschooling only done at home?

While home schooling primarily takes place from your registered home address, learning can happen in many places, including libraries, museums, parks, community groups and excursions. (NSW Government)

Final Thoughts

Although New South Wales has a more structured registration process than some other states, thousands of families homeschool successfully every year.

The home visit often sounds intimidating to new parents, but it’s simply an opportunity to discuss your educational program and ensure you’re prepared to provide your child with a suitable education.

Take your time planning, remember that learning can happen in many different ways, and don’t feel like you need to recreate a traditional classroom. Homeschooling is about creating an education that works for your child and your family.

For the latest registration requirements and to begin your application, visit the official NSW Government website:

**Apply to Register for Home Schooling in NSW

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