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School Holidays Budget (Australia)
Plan the school holidays without blowing the budget: activities, care, food and day trips, in A$.
School holidays come around four times a year, and the costs add up: holiday care, outings, extra food at home. A simple plan before the holidays start keeps it fun and affordable.
What to budget for
- Vacation care or OSHC holiday programs
- Activities and day trips
- Extra groceries and snacks at home
- Fuel or transport
- Any travel
Cheap and free ideas
Libraries, council holiday programs, parks, beaches and free museum days. Check your local council's website for holiday events.
Save for it in advance
Put a little aside each pay in a 'school holidays' jar so the money's there when the break starts.
Related guides
- Family Budget Planner (Australia)
- House Deposit Savings Plan (Australia)
- Small Business Expense Tracker (Australia)
- Kids' Birthday Party Budget (Australia)
General information only, not financial or tax advice.
FAQ
Does the Child Care Subsidy cover vacation care?
It can for approved services. Check Services Australia for your situation.
How far ahead should I plan?
A term ahead gives you five or six pays to save.
What about summer holidays?
Summer is the longest break, so budget for it with Christmas.
Try it in an app
Holiday Budget (A$19, one-off): Plan the trip, save for it each pay, and track spending on the road with currency conversion.
Sinking Funds (A$19, one-off): Save a little each pay for the big bills you know are coming: rego, insurance, Christmas, school fees, holidays.
Back to School (A$19, one-off): Every kid’s list, estimated vs actual cost, a shopping checklist and how much to put aside each pay.