In 2027, the department will begin the staged roll out of free school camps for all year 7 government school students. Once fully implemented, around 12,000 children and young people will benefit each year.

These camps are a chance for every student to enjoy a universal, phone-free experience, where they can learn new skills, make friends, and be active in a safe, supportive setting.

Information for parents, guardians, and carers

Eligibility

Free school camps will be provided on a per school basis. All year 7 students at a participating school are eligible. Your school will receive information about eligibility for 2027 camps in term 3, 2026.

As the camps are rolling out in stages, not all government schools will participate in 2027. Your school will inform you directly if it is providing a free year 7 camp.

Information about future rollouts will be shared when available.

Location and activities

Schools are empowered to plan and deliver year 7 camps that are relevant to their local context and the needs and interests of their students.

All camps will include the opportunity to learn through active experiences - giving every child a chance to be active, build confidence, and connect with others outside their home and school. Camps foster resilience, independence, teamwork, social skills, and help children make new friends.

Support for children with additional needs or accessibility requirements

Schools actively plan to make camps inclusive for all students, including those with disabilities or specific needs.

If you have questions about your child’s needs or accessibility, please talk to your school - they are ready to help.

Transport, meals, and accommodation

All transport, meals, and accommodation will be organised by your child’s school.

Supervision

All schools have clear camp and excursion policies that include staff-to-student ratios, duty of care, safety requirements, and parental involvement. For further information, contact your child’s school or review the department’s camps and excursions policy.

Further information

Contact your school directly to ask any questions about your child’s participation in camp.

Information for providers

Become a provider for free year 7 school camps

Eligible schools will be able to plan and deliver the year 7 free camp appropriate to their local needs, in line with department policies and procedures.

For more information, complete the online form. We will contact you with more information as it becomes available.

Expected camp activities and programs

Schools plan and design camps that suit their local context and the needs of their students. Camps will offer experiences that are linked to clearly identified learning objectives and include opportunities for students to be active, build confidence, and connect with others outside their home and school environment.

Safety, accessibility and inclusion requirements

All schools must follow department policies and procedures—including staff-to-student ratios, duty of care, and safety standards. Providers are expected to support inclusive, accessible and safe camps for all students. For details, review the department’s camps and excursions policy (PDF 664 KB) .

Timeline for camp rollout

Eligible schools for the 2027 rollout will be advised in term 3, 2026. Information about future rollouts will be shared when available.