Moving to Australia as a UK-trained dentist is an exciting opportunity, but if you are relocating with children, one of the biggest questions is often:
What are the schooling options available in Australia?
The good news is that Australia has a highly regarded education system, with a range of public, private and independent schooling options to suit different family needs and budgets. Understanding how the system works before you move can help make the transition smoother for both you and your children.
What Types of Schools Are Available in Australia?
Australian families generally choose between three main schooling options:
Public Schools (Government Schools)
Public schools are funded by state and territory governments and are attended by the majority of Australian children.
Benefits include:
- Lower overall costs compared to private education
- High educational standards
- Strong local community networks
- Access to sports, arts and extracurricular activities
For many UK dentists moving to Australia on employer-sponsored visas or permanent residency pathways, public schools are often the most practical and cost-effective option.
Independent Schools
Independent schools operate privately and often offer specialised educational
approaches, such as:
- Academic excellence programmes
- International Baccalaureate (IB) curricula
- Alternative teaching philosophies
- Enhanced extracurricular opportunities
These schools charge tuition fees, which can vary significantly depending on location and reputation.
Faith-Based Schools
Australia also has a large number of faith-based schools, including Catholic, Anglican and other religious institutions.
These schools often offer:
- Strong academic performance
- Values-based education
- Lower fees than many independent schools
Catholic schools are particularly popular and can be found across metropolitan and regional Australia.
Can My Children Attend Public School If I Am on a Visa as a UK trained Dentist?
Yes, although eligibility and fees depend on your visa type and the state or territory where you live.
If you move to Australia on:
- Skilled Migration Programs
- Permanent Residency
- Australian Citizenship
- Certain employer-sponsored visas
Your children may be eligible for government schooling, although some states charge fees for temporary visa holders.
School fee policies differ between states, so it is important to check the requirements for the area where you plan to live and work.
What Is the Australian School Structure?
The Australian education system is broadly similar to the UK system.
| Contents | Australia | UK Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
|
Early Years |
Kindergarten / Prep |
Reception |
|
Primary Education |
Primary School (Years 1–6) |
Primary School |
|
Secondary Education |
Secondary School (Years 7–12) |
Secondary School |
|
School Qualifications |
Year 12 Graduation |
A Levels equivalent pathway |
Children generally start school between the ages of 5 and 6 and complete Year 12 at around age 17 or 18.
How Much Does Schooling Cost in Australia?
Costs can vary considerably depending on the type of school.
Public Schools
For permanent residents and citizens, public schooling is generally free, although parents should budget for:
- Uniforms
- School excursions
- Books and stationery
- Technology requirements
Temporary visa holders may be required to pay annual tuition fees in some states.
Catholic Schools
Annual fees typically range from approximately AUD $3,000 (£1570.64) to AUD $10,000 (£5235.47) per child, depending on the school and location.
Independent Schools
Private school fees can range from AUD $15,000 (£7853.21) to more than AUD $40,000 (£20,941.89) per year, with some elite schools charging significantly more.
Which Australian Cities Are Popular for Families of UK trained dentists?
Many UK dentists relocating to Australia choose family-friendly locations that offer strong employment opportunities and excellent schools.
Popular destinations include:
Regional locations can also offer excellent schooling options while providing a lower cost of living and, in many cases, attractive incentives for healthcare professionals.
What Support Is Available for Children Moving from the UK?
Australian schools are experienced in welcoming international families and often provide support to help children settle into their new environment.
This may include:
- Orientation programmes
- Student wellbeing services
- English language support where needed
- Buddy systems for new students
- Counselling and pastoral care
Many UK families find that children adapt quickly thanks to the shared language, similar cultural values and outdoor lifestyle.
Should I Research Schools Before Accepting a Dental Role?
Absolutely.
Before committing to a dental position, it is worth considering:
- School catchment areas
- Waiting lists for popular schools
- School fees and associated costs
- Commute times between home, school and work
- Availability of extracurricular activities
Prospect Health’s Dentistry team can provide guidance on family-friendly locations and local schooling options as part of your relocation planning.
Is Australia a Good Choice for UK Dentists With Families?
For many UK dentists, Australia offers an excellent balance of career progression and family lifestyle. With high-quality education, a variety of schooling options and strong support networks for relocating families, it is a destination that continues to attract healthcare professionals from the UK.
Whether you choose a bustling city, a coastal town or a regional community, taking the time to understand your schooling options can help ensure a smooth and successful move for the whole family.
Next Up: What Are the Licensing and Work Permit Options to Move to Australia as a Dentist?
Australia remains one of the most attractive destinations for UK trained dentists looking to advance their careers overseas. With strong demand for dental professionals, competitive earning potential, and an excellent quality of life, many dentists consider Australia a natural next step.
However, before you can begin practising, you must understand both the licensing requirements and the visa options available. While the process can seem complex at first, a structured approach can help you navigate registration and immigration successfully.
In this guide, we explore the key licensing pathways, registration requirements, and work permit options available to dentists looking to move to Australia.
Start your journey to working as a Dentist in Australia
Whether you are exploring dentist jobs in Queensland, dentist opportunities in New South Wales, dental roles in Victoria, or relocation options in Western Australia and South Australia, we are here to support you every step of the way.
Discover current opportunities, access relocation resources and watch our webinars for international dentists planning a move to Australia.
Whether you’re just starting to research or ready to begin your application, our team can help guide you every step of the way.
Contact our expert recruitment team for an informal chat on 01423 813 455, or you can send them an email at [email protected].
View all our Dentist Jobs in Australia
Watch the webinar
If you would like to watch Anoush and Dhruvi chat about their experience you can request to get a copy of the webinar they recorded for us, in which they talked through the process of moving over to Australia.
Register to access the full webinar
Talk to a specialist
Frances Sevenster
Specialist Recruitment Consultant
As a dedicated Dental Recruitment Specialist I specialize in fostering professional growth and connecting passionate dental professionals with exciting career opportunities.
Whether you’re looking for guidance, support, or new roles within the dental field, you’ve come to the right place!