How to Start Homeschooling in New South Wales
How to Start Homeschooling in New South Wales
How to Start Homeschooling in New South Wales — What the Process Really Looks Like (Including My AP Visit Story)
New South Wales has a reputation for being the strictest state, and in fairness, the process is more formal than VIC or QLD. But that doesn’t mean it’s unmanageable. In fact, my AP visit ended up being one of the most reassuring conversations I’ve ever had about homeschooling.
Here’s everything you need to know, step by step.
1. Who Regulates Homeschooling in NSW?
Homeschooling in NSW is regulated by the NSW Department of Education (formerly NESA’s role).
If your child is school-aged and you want to educate them at home, you must apply for home schooling registration.
2. Steps to Register in NSW
STEP 1 — Submit the Application
Every child needs:
• Their own application
• Proof of identity
• Any relevant court orders
• Details about your intended learning program
You can apply via:
• The online Home Schooling Portal, or
• Downloaded forms (if preferred)
STEP 2 — Prepare Your Learning Program
Your learning plan should show:
• What curriculum or resources you’ll use
• How you’ll deliver lessons
• How you’ll track progress
• How you’ll schedule learning time
• A scope and sequence (broad outline)
Most families use:
• A curriculum like Euka, My Homeschool, Simply Homeschool
• Worksheets, online programs, unit studies
• Books, nature study, excursions, hands-on learning
STEP 3 — The Home Visit (the part everyone worries about)
New South Wales is the only state that requires a home visit for approval and renewal.
When I did mine, I was honestly terrified.
I cleaned everything. I rewrote my learning plan.
I made piles of work samples.
But when the AP arrived — he was a retired principal, warm, calm, and genuinely interested in our family. He sat and chatted with us for most of the time. He didn’t even read my learning plan in detail because he could see just through conversation what we were doing and what our intentions were.
I know not every AP visit is identical, but most parents in the NSW homeschool groups say the same thing — the visits are kinder, more relaxed, and more supportive than they expected.
Your AP is mainly checking:
• That learning will occur regularly
• That the environment is safe and supportive
• That you have a plan and some starting resources
• That you understand home schooling responsibilities
You don’t have to “prove” you’re a perfect teacher — just that you’re actively involved in educating your child.
3. After You’re Registered
Record-Keeping (Important in NSW)
NSW expects ongoing documentation, including:
• Work samples across all required learning areas
• Notes on progress
• Evidence of hours spent learning
• Scope and sequence updates
• Photos, journals, book lists
• Your educational program with updates
This is what you’ll show at renewal.
Registration Periods + Renewal
NSW does not grant open-ended registration.
They may approve:
• 3 months
• 6 months
• 12 months
• Up to 2 years for experienced homeschoolers
To renew, you must:
• Reapply
• Prepare an updated learning plan
• Provide work samples
• Complete another AP visit
Renewals become easier once you understand how to keep records naturally as part of your homeschool routine.
4. Final Thoughts (NSW)
Yes — NSW is more structured. Yes — the home visit can feel intimidating.
But in reality, most APs are supportive, reasonable, and genuinely want to see families succeed. My visit ended up being a great reassurance that we were on the right track.
The key to homeschooling in NSW is simple:
• Keep steady records
• Create a clear learning plan
• Treat the AP visit as a conversation, not an exam
Once you get past the first registration, the process becomes much easier.
