How Long is Summer Break in Australia? School Holiday Guide for International Students

If you're planning to study in Australia or sending your child to school there, you might be wondering: How long is summer break in Australia?
The answer depends on the education level, state or territory, and type of institution. This guide breaks down Australia’s summer holiday duration, when it occurs, and what to expect as an international student or parent.

How Long is Summer Break in Australia?

In Australia, the summer break typically lasts between 6 to 8 weeks, depending on the school and state.

Most students finish school in mid-December
Classes usually resume in late January or early February

So the average summer holiday is:

6 to 7 weeks for primary and secondary school students
Up to 8–12 weeks for university students, depending on the program and exam schedule

Summer in Australia runs from December to February, opposite to the northern hemisphere.

School Term Dates in Australia

Australia's school year is divided into four terms, separated by holidays:

Term 1: Late January – early April
Term 2: Mid April – late June
Term 3: Mid July – late September
Term 4: Early October – mid December

Summer Holidays = End of Term 4 to Start of Term 1

This is the longest break of the year, usually around:

Mid-December to late January (6–7 weeks)
Some private or independent schools may offer longer breaks (up to 8 weeks)

Summer Break by State/Territory (2024–2025 Estimated)

State/Territory	Summer Break (Approx.)
New South Wales	Mid-Dec to Late Jan (6–7 weeks)
Victoria	Mid-Dec to Late Jan
Queensland	Early Dec to Late Jan
Western Australia	Mid-Dec to Late Jan
South Australia	Mid-Dec to Late Jan
Tasmania	Mid-Dec to Early Feb
ACT	Mid-Dec to Late Jan
Northern Territory	Mid-Dec to Late Jan

What Do Students Do During Summer Break?

Summer holidays in Australia are a time for:

Family vacations (domestic and international travel)
Holiday programs or summer schools
Casual or part-time work (for high school or uni students)
Relaxation and preparation for the new school year

International students can use this time to explore Australia, return home, or enroll in short-term language or academic courses.

University Summer Break: Longer and More Flexible

At universities, the summer break is often longer:

From mid-November to late February or early March
Some students finish earlier if they have no final exams in November

Universities may offer:

Summer semesters or intensive short courses
Research opportunities or internships
Optional study abroad or exchange programs

Final Thoughts

So, how long is summer break in Australia?

For school students: Around 6–7 weeks, from mid-December to late January
For university students: Up to 3 months, depending on course schedules

Understanding the academic calendar is essential when planning travel, applying for a visa, or organizing childcare.

Need Help with Your Australia Visa?

At Australian Immigration Services, we assist with visa applications, including:

e-Visa processing
Real-time updates, 24/7 assistance, and document preparation
Fast-track options for urgent or late applications

We make it easier for you to plan your education journey — even around holidays like the summer break.

Apply through our website today and let us help you study in Australia with confidence and convenience.

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