School Holidays in June 2026: Australian Family Guide

· school holidays in june 2026

Understanding School Holidays in June 2026

For Australian families searching for ‘school holidays in June 2026’, planning starts with knowing that school terms vary by state and territory. June typically marks the end of Term 2, leading into the mid-year winter holidays that extend into July. However, exact dates for 2026 are not yet finalised by all education departments, so families must verify with their state or territory’s official education website closer to the time.

This guide provides a practical overview based on historical patterns, public holidays, and family-friendly planning tips. It helps you anticipate breaks, book travel, and make the most of time off school.

Typical School Holiday Dates by State and Territory

Australian schools follow four terms per year, with Term 2 generally running from late April to late June. The holidays after Term 2 are the longest of the year, lasting about two weeks. Here’s a breakdown of expected patterns for June 2026—always cross-check with your state’s Department of Education for confirmed 2026 calendars.

New South Wales (NSW)

Term 2 often ends on the last Friday before the Queen’s Birthday public holiday (now King’s Birthday). Expect holidays starting around 27 June 2026, running until mid-July. King’s Birthday is the second Monday in June (likely 8 June 2026).

Victoria (VIC)

Similar to NSW, Term 2 closes late June, with holidays from approximately 27 June to 11 July. King’s Birthday falls on the second Monday in June.

Queensland (QLD)

Holidays typically begin 27 June, ending 11 July. No King’s Birthday holiday statewide, but local public holidays may apply in some areas.

South Australia (SA)

Term 2 ends around 26 June, holidays to 13 July. King’s Birthday is the second Monday in June.

Western Australia (WA)

Expect a late June start to holidays (e.g., 27 June to 18 July), with King’s Birthday on the last Monday in September—not in June.

Tasmania (TAS)

Holidays from about 27 June to 13 July. King’s Birthday is the second Monday in June.

Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

Aligns closely with NSW: holidays likely 27 June to 11 July, King’s Birthday second Monday in June.

Northern Territory (NT)

Term 2 ends mid-to-late June (around 26 June), holidays until 13 July. King’s Birthday is the first Monday in June.

Public holidays like King’s Birthday create long weekends, perfect for short getaways. For 2026, these dates will boost family time early in the month.

Public Holidays Impacting June 2026

King’s Birthday is a key event in June for most states:

  • First Monday: NT (likely 1 June 2026)
  • Second Monday: NSW, VIC, SA, TAS, ACT (likely 8 June 2026)

This means a three-day weekend for many families, even before full holidays. Combine it with school holidays for extended breaks. Check Fair Work Australia for exact dates, as they can shift.

Family Activities During June Holidays

June’s cooler weather suits indoor and outdoor adventures. Here’s how to fill the time:

Indoor Fun

  • Museums and Galleries: Sydney’s Powerhouse Museum or Melbourne’s Scienceworks offer holiday programs.
  • Cinema Seasons: Book family blockbusters at Event Cinemas or local spots.
  • Trampoline Parks and Bowling: Nationwide chains like Flip Out provide rainy-day energy outlets.

Outdoor Adventures

  • Bushwalks and Parks: Explore national parks like Blue Mountains (NSW) or Grampians (VIC) with shorter winter trails.
  • Skiing and Snow Play: If holidays spill into July, head to Perisher (NSW) or Thredbo for beginner slopes.
  • Beachcombing: Southern coasts like Adelaide’s Glenelg remain walkable, even in winter.

Educational Outings

  • Zoos and Wildlife Parks: Taronga Zoo (Sydney) or Lone Pine (Brisbane) run holiday workshops.
  • STEM Workshops: Many libraries and community centres host free coding or robotics sessions.

Family Travel Ideas for June 2026

With holidays aligning nationally, domestic travel peaks. Book early for deals.

Short Getaways (Long Weekend)

  • Drive to the Gold Coast from QLD/NSW for theme parks like Dreamworld.
  • Tasmania’s MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) for a cultural twist.

Interstate Trips

  • Fly to Tasmania for winter festivals.
  • Train to the Snowy Mountains for snow activities.

Budget Tips

  • Accommodation: Use Airbnb for family homes or NRMA parks for camping.
  • Flights: Qantas and Virgin offer school holiday fares; monitor via Skyscanner.
  • Road Trips: Fuel apps like FuelPrice Australia save on petrol.

Pack for variable weather: layers, rain gear, and sunscreen for sunny spells.

Planning Checklist for School Holidays

  1. Confirm Dates: Visit your state education site (e.g., education.nsw.gov.au) by late 2025.
  2. Book Essentials: Secure holiday programs, travel, and childcare if needed.
  3. Budget: Allocate for activities (aim $200-500/family/week).
  4. Health Prep: Update vaccinations; pack flu kits for winter.
  5. Screen Time Balance: Plan unplugged days with board games or picnics.

Why June 2026 Holidays Matter for Families

These breaks recharge kids after a busy Term 2. Use the time for bonding, skill-building, and creating memories. With climate change bringing unpredictable weather, flexible plans are key—have indoor backups.

By anticipating ‘school holidays in June 2026’, you’ll avoid last-minute stress. States release calendars 12-18 months ahead, so monitor updates. Safe travels and happy holidays!

(Word count: 748. All dates are indicative; official confirmation required from state education authorities.)