Queensland School Holidays 2026 – Key Dates & Overview
In Queensland, Australia, the Department of Education sets the official school term and holiday dates each year for state schools. Independent and Catholic schools typically schedule holidays based on these dates, but they can vary — so it’s always best to check directly with each school.
🗓️ Term Dates 2026 (State Schools)
Queensland’s 2026 school year is structured into four 10-week terms with breaks in between.
- Term 1: Tuesday 27 January – Thursday 2 April 2026
- Term 2: Monday 20 April – Friday 26 June 2026
- Term 3: Monday 13 July – Friday 18 September 2026
- Term 4: Tuesday 6 October – Friday 11 December 2026
📌 Staff professional development days (student-free days) are interspersed within terms but do not count as school holiday periods.
School Holiday Periods in 2026
Here’s a breakdown of the QLD school holidays for 2026:
🍂 Autumn / Easter Holidays
📅 Friday 3 April – Sunday 19 April 2026
This break follows the end of Term 1 — and covers Easter and the start of autumn.
❄️ Winter Holidays
📅 Saturday 27 June – Sunday 12 July 2026
Right after Term 2 finishes, students get a well-deserved winter break.
🌻 Spring Holidays
📅 Saturday 19 September – Monday 5 October 2026
This break connects the end of Term 3 to the beginning of Term 4, and includes the King’s Birthday holiday on Monday 5 October.
🎄 Summer Holidays (End of Year)
📅 Saturday 12 December 2026 – Tuesday 26 January 2027
The longest break of the year wraps up 2026 and extends into the start of 2027.
Tips for Families & Travellers
- Plan travel early: School holidays are peak travel times in Queensland — particularly the Easter break and summer holidays — so accommodation and flights can book out fast.
- Check with your school: Independent and Catholic schools may have slightly different dates. Always confirm with the school for the most accurate schedule.
- Public holidays: Some holidays like Australia Day (26 January) and others fall within school holiday periods and can affect family plans outside term time.
Quick Reference Table
| Holiday Name | Start | End |
|---|---|---|
| Autumn / Easter Holidays | Fri 3 Apr 2026 | Sun 19 Apr 2026 |
| Winter Holidays | Sat 27 Jun 2026 | Sun 12 Jul 2026 |
| Spring Holidays | Sat 19 Sep 2026 | Mon 5 Oct 2026 |
| Summer Holidays | Sat 12 Dec 2026 | Tue 26 Jan 2027 |
(All dates based on Queensland Government school calendar.)
FAQs: QLD School Holidays 2026
1. When do QLD school holidays start in 2026?
Queensland school holidays in 2026 begin after Term 1 ends on Thursday 2 April 2026, with the first holiday period starting on Friday 3 April 2026.
2. How many school holiday periods are there in Queensland?
There are four main school holiday periods each year in Queensland:
- Autumn (Easter)
- Winter
- Spring
- Summer (end-of-year)
3. What are the QLD school holiday dates for 2026?
The main QLD school holiday periods in 2026 are:
- Autumn/Easter: 3 April – 19 April
- Winter: 27 June – 12 July
- Spring: 19 September – 5 October
- Summer: 12 December 2026 – 26 January 2027
4. Do QLD school holidays apply to all schools?
The official dates apply to Queensland state schools. Catholic and independent schools usually follow similar dates but may vary slightly.
5. When does Term 1 start for QLD schools in 2026?
Term 1 for Queensland state schools starts on Tuesday 27 January 2026, shortly after the Australia Day holiday.
6. How long is the summer school holiday in Queensland?
The summer holidays are the longest break, lasting around six weeks, from 12 December 2026 to 26 January 2027.
7. Are public holidays included in school holidays?
Yes. Public holidays such as Easter, Australia Day, and the King’s Birthday (October) may fall within school holiday periods or during school terms.
8. Are there student-free days outside school holidays?
Yes. Queensland schools have student-free days for staff development during terms. These are not counted as school holidays and vary by school.
9. Is travel more expensive during QLD school holidays?
Generally, yes. Flights, accommodation, and attractions tend to be more expensive and busier during school holiday periods, especially Easter and summer.
10. Where can I check the most accurate QLD school holiday dates?
For the most reliable and up-to-date information, always check:
- The Queensland Department of Education website
- Your child’s school newsletter or website
