How to enrol your child in school in Victoria
For: Aboriginal parents in Victoria enrolling children in school
Enrolling children in primary or secondary school in Victoria — your rights, how to enrol, what support is available for Aboriginal families.
Your child’s right to education
All children in Victoria have the right to free public education from Prep to Year 12. No child can be refused enrolment because of residency status, disability, or Aboriginality.
How to enrol
Contact your local school directly. For Swan Hill: Swan Hill Primary School: (03) 5032 1244. For Mildura: Mildura South Primary School: (03) 5023 1222. You need: your child’s birth certificate (or passport), immunisation records, proof of address.
Ask for an Individual Education Plan
If your child has a disability or learning needs, ask the school to create an Individual Education Plan (IEP). Schools must make reasonable adjustments for children with disability under the Disability Discrimination Act.
Request an Aboriginal Education Worker
Every school should have access to an Aboriginal Education Worker (AEW). Ask the school who their AEW is and how they can support your child. VACCA also has education support programs.
ABSTUDY for secondary school students
If your child stays in school after Year 10, they may qualify for ABSTUDY — a Centrelink payment for Aboriginal students. Ring Centrelink Indigenous line: 132 316. Swan Hill Neighbourhood House can help with the application.