Training in Schools
The school leaving age in Australia has been reviewed as a result of international research findings which found that young people benefit overwhelmingly from staying at school or in training beyond Year 10. The research also found that an increased leaving age enhances young people's chances of achieving long term employment and better long term financial rewards.
Below is a summary of the current school leaving age requirements in each state and territory in Australia.
New South Wales
From 1 January 2010 students will be required to remain at school until the completion of Year 10; and after completing Year 10 students will be required to remain in some form of education, training or employment until they turn 17 years old.
www.schools.nsw.edu.au
Australian Capital Territory
15 years of age; changes to the school leaving age are being considered.
www.det.act.gov.au (direct link to consultation paper)
Queensland
Compulsory participation' means that students must participate in earning and learning for 2yrs after schooling i.e. completion of Yr 10 or 16 yrs old, or 17 yrs old, or Until they complete a Queensland Certificate of Education (or Queensland Certificate of Individual Achievement), Senior Statement or a Certificate III or IV vocational qualification.
www.education.qld.gov.au
Northern Territory
15 years of age; changes to the school leaving age is being considered.
www.vet.nt.gov.au
Western Australia
An Australian Apprenticeship is an approved training option, or they may remain at school until the end of the year they turn 17.
www.det.wa.edu.au
South Australia
From 1 January 2009 the compulsory school leaving age is 17 years old. School students may undertake a full time Australian Apprenticeship under 16yrs old. The student must have an Exemption from DECS, on the approved form, signed by the school principal and be undertaking education or training until they turn 17 or gain a qualification.
www.educationage.sa.gov.au
Victoria
The student must be 16 yrs old to leave school. Australian Apprentices under 16 yrs old on commencement of their Apprenticeship must have a school exit form. If under 15 years old on commencement, they must have a Child Employment Permit.
www.business.vic.gov.au
www.education.vic.gov.au
Tasmania
School leaving age is 17 years old. Exemptions are available for students who undertake appropriate employment for more than 25 hours per week. If their employment ceased before they turned 17, they would be required to show what they intend to do for the rest of the time until they do turn 17 years old.
http://www.education.tas.gov.au
