Homeschooling Made Simple: A Parent’s Handbook

What Is Homeschooling?

Homeschooling is becoming increasingly popular in Australia, with an estimated 20,000 students now learning at home. In NSW alone, the number rose from 3,300 in 2013 to 4,700 in 2017 — a trend seen across every state and territory.

Parents who homeschool take full responsibility for their child’s education, including:

• Designing and delivering the learning program.
• Creating a suitable study environment.
• Providing all necessary resources.
• Monitoring progress and assessing learning.
• Submitting an annual report or portfolio to demonstrate achievements.

Why Families Choose Homeschooling

There are countless reasons why parents opt to educate their children at home. For some, it’s based on religious or philosophical beliefs. Others cite playground bullying, overcrowded classrooms, or dissatisfaction with traditional schooling. Homeschooling can also accommodate special learning needs, demanding sports schedules, or remote living situations.

How Aussie Edu Hub Supports Homeschooling

If you’re unsure about teaching certain subjects or simply want additional support that matches your teaching style, Aussie Edu Hub is an excellent learning partner. Our flexible online platform allows students to log in from anywhere, using video, audio, and an interactive whiteboard.

You can focus on specific areas, set personalised learning goals, and tailor the program to your child’s needs. After every session, you’ll receive a progress report — perfect for including in your homeschooling portfolio.

How to Get Started with Homeschooling

Any parent can apply to homeschool through their state’s education authority. While requirements differ slightly by location, most applications will ask for:

• Parent and student details.
• Proof of the child’s age and residence.
• Relevant legal documents (if applicable).
• An education plan showing how you’ll meet learning requirements.

Some states, such as NSW and NT, also require a home visit before approval — usually an informal meeting to review your plan and learning space.

Meeting Registration Requirements

When applying, you must submit an education plan that aligns with your state’s curriculum outcomes. You can write your own, adapt a template from your state’s website, or purchase a curriculum from a provider.

While programs can vary widely in style, they must cover the eight key learning areas of the Australian Curriculum. The most effective plans are customised to each child’s interests, strengths, and pace.

Choosing the Right Curriculum

Many parents homeschool because they believe education should be personalised. The curriculum you choose should fit your child’s needs — this makes teaching easier and ensures better long-term results.

Homeschooling Styles and Considerations

Before you begin, think about the costs, your child’s future study options, and whether they will be eligible for an ATAR. Explore different teaching methods to find the right fit for your family.

Homeschooling FAQs

Do I need to be a qualified teacher?
No. You just need to meet your state’s requirements and provide evidence of learning progress.

Can someone else homeschool my child?
Usually, parents take on the role, but you can hire a qualified tutor or teacher for support.

Can I start anytime?
It’s best to keep your child enrolled in school until you have official approval, which can take 3–12 weeks.

What subjects must I teach?
While there’s no single national curriculum, you must meet your state’s core learning outcomes — typically literacy, numeracy, and HSIE subjects.

How much time should I spend?
Some families work best with four full days, others with five shorter days. The schedule is flexible, as long as curriculum requirements are met.

Will I be monitored?
Some states require annual monitoring visits. In all cases, you must keep records showing how you’ve implemented your program.

Do we need social activities?
Yes, most states require evidence of social interaction — through excursions, group lessons, or other activities.

What if my child has special needs?
Homeschooling can be a great fit for children who learn best at their own pace. Seek support to ensure their needs are fully met.

How do I create and track my program?
You can design your own or use ready-made programs. Keep a portfolio — this might include written work, projects, maths exercises, or creative assignments.

What if I feel overwhelmed?
Homeschooling is a big commitment, but with determination and support — including outside tutoring from Aussie Edu Hub — it’s absolutely manageable.