Here are the Melbourne/Victoria (state public schools) school holidays and term dates for 2026.
| Term / Holiday Period | Start Date | End Date |
| Term 1 | Tuesday, 28 January 2026 | Friday, 4 April 2026 |
| Autumn / Term 1 Holiday | Saturday, 5 April 2026 | Monday, 21 April 2026 |
| Term 2 | Tuesday, 22 April 2026 | Friday, 4 July 2026 |
| Winter / Term 2 Holiday | Saturday, 5 July 2026 | Sunday, 20 July 2026 |
| Term 3 | Monday, 21 July 2026 | Friday, 19 September 2026 |
| Spring / Term 3 Holiday | Saturday, 20 September 2026 | Sunday, 5 October 2026 |
| Term 4 | Monday, 6 October 2026 | Friday, 19 December 2026 |
| Summer/Term 4 Holiday | Saturday, 20 December 2026 | Tuesday, 27 January 2027 |
Important Public Holidays (Victoria) 2026
These are some public holidays in Victoria in 2026 that may happen during school periods:
| Holiday | Date | Source |
|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | Wednesday, 1 January 2026 | Holidays with Kids [3] |
| Australia Day (observed) | Monday, 27 January 2026 | Newy with Kids [2] |
| Labour Day | Monday, 10 March 2026 | Holidays with Kids [3] |
| Good Friday | Friday, 18 April 2026 | Holidays with Kids [3] |
| Easter Monday | Monday, 21 April 2026 | Holidays with Kids [3] |
| ANZAC Day | Friday, 25 April 2026 | Holidays with Kids [3] |
| King’s Birthday | Monday, 9 June 2026 | Holidays with Kids [3] |
| Melbourne Cup Day | Tuesday, 4 November 2026 | Holidays with Kids [3] |
| Christmas Day | Thursday, 25 December 2026 | Holidays with Kids [3] |
| Boxing Day | Friday, 26 December 2026 | Holidays with Kids [3] |
When do the Melbourne school holidays start in 2026?
The first school break of 2026 begins in early April, right after Term 1 ends. It’s the perfect time to enjoy things to do in the autumn weather and take a short trip around Victoria before winter sets in.
How long are the summer holidays in Melbourne?
The summer holidays start in mid-December and stretch into late January. Families usually take this time to travel, spend lazy days by the beach, or just enjoy a slower pace before school starts again.
Are the school holiday dates the same across Victoria?
Yes, for government schools, they are. However, some Catholic and independent schools may have slightly different term dates, so it’s always best to double-check with your child’s school.
What’s the best time to plan a family getaway in Melbourne?
That depends on your family’s style! Summer is perfect for beach trips and outdoor festivals, while winter is great for cozy weekends in the mountains or visits to museums and indoor attractions. Spring and autumn bring ideal weather for road trips, hiking, and picnics.
Are there public holidays during the school year?
Yes, Victoria has several public holidays scattered throughout the year, including Labour Day in March, ANZAC Day in April, and the King’s Birthday in June. There is also the famous Melbourne Cup Day in November, giving locals a midweek break to enjoy the event.
For more information visit australiacityguide.com.au.
