If you’re on a Temporary Skills Shortage visa (subclass 482) and living in New South Wales, exciting changes to the school enrolment policies could positively impact your family. This post breaks down the new rules for 482 visa holders and how to navigate them.
What’s New for 482 Visa Holders?
Starting from Term 1, 2025, the NSW Department of Education is implementing several updates to the enrolment policy. One key highlight for families on temporary visas is the removal of enrolment fees for children of regional 482 visa holders.
If you’re based outside Greater Sydney and Wollongong, you will no longer need to pay fees to enrol your child in local public schools.
This is part of NSW’s efforts to make education more accessible for families contributing to the economy, especially in regional areas facing skills shortages.
How to Enrol Your Child in a Local School
If you’re currently on a 482 visa and need to enrol your child for the 2025 school year, here’s what you need to do:
- Find Your Local School:
Use the NSW Department of Education’s tool to identify your local public school based on your residential address. Find a public school. - Submit the Enrolment Application:
Contact the school and fill out the paper enrolment form they provide. Alternatively, you can complete the online enrollment if the school offers that option. - Check Eligibility and Fees (If Applicable):
If you’re unsure whether your family qualifies for the fee waiver, contact the Temporary Residents Program (TRP) team at [email protected] or call 1300 300 229. You’ll receive confirmation regarding changing your child’s enrolment status or school.
Siblings and Non-Local Enrolments
The updated policies also make it easier for siblings of already enrolled students to apply for non-local enrolment. Although acceptance depends on the capacity of the school, siblings of current students will receive priority in most cases.
These changes are significant for families on the 482 visa, as they remove financial and logistical hurdles to accessing public education. With the fee waiver for regional residents and easier enrolment for temporary visa holders, your family can benefit from the diverse, high-quality education NSW public schools offer without additional financial stress.
About Rocket & Ash Immigration Law
At Rocket & Ash Immigration Law, we specialise in helping partners, graduates, and professionals navigate the complexities of Australian immigration law. Our expertise in visa applications ensures that you receive tailored advice and support throughout your immigration journey.
If you require assistance with your Subclass 482 Work Visa application or have any other immigration-related queries, our experienced team can help.
Please book a free 15-minute discussion with our team if you have further questions.
Written by Ines Jusufspahic, LPN: 5511366
This article does not constitute legal/financial advice or create an attorney-client relationship. For up-to-date information, please consult an immigration professional. Furthermore, please note that we do not receive any benefit or commission for the referral to Prime Partners.