Bringing your family
Perth is a safe, multicultural city on the Indian Ocean with reliable public transport and a well-developed education system.
Student Visa Reforms to study in Australia effecting family members:
From 2 October 2026, there are new rules for Student visas (subclass 500). Some of the rules change whether family members can be included in a Student visa application. Before you make any visa, study, travel or relocation plans, check how the new rules affect you. Visit the Department of Home Affairs website and select the Eligibility tab to see if an exemption allows you to include family members in your Student visa application.
It is important to note that if you are eligible to include family members in your Student visa, they must apply for their visas at the same time and in the same place as you. You are no longer able to add family members to your visa after it is granted under any circumstances.
If you are eligible to bring family members, the information below covers schooling, childcare and family life in Perth.
Children’s schooling
Perth has a mix of government (public) schools, non-government (private) schools, including co-educational, single gender schools, schools with a religious focus, and schools that offer specialty programs such as music or sport. Children attend primary school from pre-primary level (aged five) through to year 6. They then attend high school from year 7 through to year 12, when they turn 18.
If your school-aged children can join you, you can enrol them in public or private schools, provided the school has the capacity to accept them. Schools normally require you to pay international tuition fees. These fees will be listed on your Confirmation of Placement (CoP) letter. The CoP letter is a required document for obtaining a dependent visa and enrolling your children in school.
If your school-aged children require extra English language support, there may be additional fees and we recommend they have some English language training before arriving in Perth. Additionally, if your child has special needs or a disability, there may be extra fees so that your child can learn in an inclusive environment that meets their needs.
For more information regarding visa processing, obtaining a CoP letter, school fees, enrolments and a list of schools, view the updated Curtin Dependent Schooling information sheet, (PDF available soon).
Childcare
If you have a dependent child under the age of five and require childcare, Curtin University’s Early Childhood Centre provides a warm and caring environment for young children to grow and learn. Find out more about the childcare centre services.
Visa eligibility and conditions
Student visa rules for family members changed on 2 October 2026. Most new applicants are no longer able to include a partner or children, unless an exemption applies. You are no longer able to add family members to your visa after it is granted. Visit the DHA website to check your eligibility.
Eligible families must apply together with the student. Conditions include enrolling children over the age of five in school and making sure your Overseas Student Health Cover covers all family members travelling with you.
Things to do in Perth
Perth offers family-friendly attractions and activities, catering to different interests. Some of Perth’s attractions are listed below, but there are many other things to see and do in Perth.
Take your family to see some native wildlife at Perth Zoo, AQWA – The Aquarium of WA or Caversham Wildlife Park, ride the thrill rides at Adventure World or expand your mind with interactive science experiences at Scitech.
Disclaimer
Information on this page is current as of October 2026. Visa rules are subject to change. Check the Department of Home Affairs website for current requirements. This page provides general guidance only and does not constitute migration, legal or other professional advice.
© Curtin University 2026