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Homeschool Registration Guides / ACT

How to register for home education in Australian Capital Territory (2026)

Updated 30 August 2026

Registering authority

Education Directorate (ACT), Home Education team

See the official links below to apply via the ACT Government SmartForm.

Recent change

The Education Amendment Act 2024 commenced 1 January 2025 — parents must now notify the Directorate within 28 days of ending home education.

Who can register

Ages 6–17, living or usually living in the ACT.

Step-by-step process

  1. Submit the complete application via the ACT Government SmartForm — you can begin home educating as soon as it’s lodged.
  2. Submit a Statement of Intent within 3 months.
  3. Attend a review meeting with the Home Education team within the first 3 months.
  4. Receive a decision within 28 days of a complete application; a certificate is issued per child.

Documents checklist

  • Certified copy of birth certificate or passport
  • Certified copy of Medicare card, or court orders if the parent isn’t on the birth certificate
  • Proof of ACT residency (licence, rental agreement, or utility bill)

Reporting obligations

An Annual Home Education Report (covering intellectual, social/emotional, and physical development) is due by 31 December each year.

Duration and renewal

Registration lasts up to 2 years (shorter on request). Renew at least 3 months before expiry.

The education plan or annual report is usually the scary part — a structured, AC9-aligned curriculum from Nomad Scholars makes that paperwork easy.
Enrol with Nomad ScholarsSee pricing

Official links

Home education / home schooling (ACT Government) →Updating education law to support modern learning →

Frequently asked questions

Who handles home education registration in the ACT?

The Education Directorate’s Home Education team, applied to via the ACT Government SmartForm.

Can I start home educating before my ACT application is approved?

Yes — you can begin home educating as soon as the complete application is lodged, ahead of the Statement of Intent and review meeting.

How long does an ACT home education decision take?

A decision is made within 28 days of a complete application, with a certificate issued per child.

How long does ACT home education registration last?

Up to 2 years (shorter on request), and you should renew at least 3 months before expiry.

Does the ACT require an annual home education report?

Yes, an Annual Home Education Report covering intellectual, social/emotional and physical development is due by 31 December each year.

What changed under the ACT’s Education Amendment Act 2024?

It commenced 1 January 2025 and now requires parents to notify the Directorate within 28 days of ending home education.

Requirements change — always confirm current requirements with Education Directorate (ACT), Home Education team before applying. This page is general information, not legal advice.
The education plan or annual report is usually the scary part — a structured, AC9-aligned curriculum from Nomad Scholars makes that paperwork easy.
Enrol with Nomad ScholarsSee pricing