Planning ahead for the school holidays is essential for families, educators, and students in Brisbane.
Below is a detailed guide to the Brisbane school holiday dates and term schedules for 2025, specifically for state schools.
Please note that these dates do not account for block exams or early finishing dates for students in years 10, 11, and 12.
School Term Dates and Holidays in 2025
Term 1, 2025
📅 Start Date: Tuesday, 28th January
📅 End Date: Friday, 4th April
🌿 Easter School Holidays: Saturday, 5th April – Monday, 21st April
The first term of the year sets the foundation for students as they return to school after the summer break.
This term typically involves orientation sessions, early academic assessments, and various school events.
Families may want to plan short getaways during the Easter holidays, ensuring a refreshing break before Term 2.
Public Holidays During Term 1
Good Friday:
Friday, 18th April – A significant Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
Easter Sunday:
Sunday, 20th April – A celebration of the resurrection of Jesus, observed with religious services and family gatherings.
Easter Monday:
Monday, 21st April – A public holiday observed across Australia, often spent with family or engaging in community events.
Term 2, 2025
📅 Start Date: Tuesday, 22nd April
📅 End Date: Friday, 27th June
❄ Winter School Holidays: Saturday, 28th June – Sunday, 13th July
Term 2 brings colder months and mid-year assessments. It is also a time for winter sports, extracurricular competitions, and school excursions.
Many families choose to take advantage of the mid-year break for travel within Australia or overseas.
Public Holidays During Term 2
ANZAC Day:
Friday, 25th April – A Day of national remembrance honoring Australian and New Zealand soldiers who served and sacrificed their lives in wars and conflicts.
Labour Day:
Monday, 5th May – Celebrating workers’ rights and the eight-hour workday movement, this public holiday offers a long weekend for families.
Term 3, 2025
📅 Start Date: Monday, 14th July
📅 End Date: Friday, 19th September
🍁 Spring School Holidays: Saturday, 20th September – Monday, 6th October
The third term is crucial for academic progress, especially for students preparing for their final exams.
Schools may organize career fairs, mock exams, and preparatory sessions for senior students.
The spring holidays provide an excellent opportunity for relaxation before the final stretch of the school year.
Public Holidays During Term 3
Ekka Wednesday (Brisbane Only):
Wednesday, 13th August – The annual Brisbane Exhibition (Ekka) public holiday, allowing families to visit the Ekka fair for rides, entertainment, and agricultural showcases.
Pupil Free Day:
Friday, 5th September – A designated day for teachers’ professional development, meaning students get an extended weekend.
Term 4, 2025
📅 Start Date: Tuesday, 7th October
📅 End Date: Friday, 12th December (Prep – Grade 9)
☀ Summer School Holidays: Saturday, 13th December – Monday, 26th January 2026
The final term of the year is typically shorter and packed with end-of-year events, including graduations, report card distributions, and celebrations.
For senior students, this term often involves final exams and early finishing dates before transitioning to post-school pathways.
Public Holidays During Term 4
King’s Birthday:
Monday, 6th October – Celebrating the birthday of the reigning monarch, this public holiday provides a welcome break before the final term assessments.
Australia Day:
Monday, 26th January 2026 – Marking the anniversary of the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788, Australia Day is celebrated with public events, fireworks, and barbecues.
Plan Ahead for a Smooth Year
With these dates in mind, parents can plan vacations, childcare, and family activities well in advance.
It is also a great opportunity to schedule extracurricular activities, tutoring sessions, or enrichment programs to support children’s academic and personal development.
Make sure to check with individual schools for any additional pupil-free days or variations in finishing dates for older students.
Happy planning!