The Ultimate Back to School Checklist for Australian Parents (2025)

The back to school rush in Australia hits every January and late January as kids prepare for a new school year. Whether your child is starting kindy for the first time or heading back to Year 5, this checklist covers everything they need — and what is actually worth spending on.

Essential items for every Australian school kid

Lunch and hydration

• —Personalised stainless steel lunch box (bento-style for kindy, larger single box for older kids)
• —Insulated water bottle (at least 500ml, BPA-free stainless steel recommended)
• —Insulated lunch bag (keeps food at safe temperature in Australian heat)

School bag and organisation

• — School backpack appropriate to age and size (padded straps, adjustable)
• — Pencil case and stationery supplies
• — Name labels for all belongings (clothing, books, bag)

Clothing and uniform

• — School uniform (at least 3 sets — allows for washing mid-week)
• — Broad-brimmed hat (required at most Australian schools, Term 1)
• — Sports shoes and PE kit
• — Raincoat or windbreaker for cooler months

Kindy and daycare starter checklist

If your child is starting kindy or long daycare for the first time, there are a few extra items to consider beyond the basics.

• — Small backpack sized for kindy (not full primary school size)
• — Spare change of clothes in a named bag
• — Named sleep bag or rest mat for daycare
• — Sunscreen (SPF 50+ — many centres require it to be provided)
• — Small comfort toy or book for rest time

Our Kindy Starter Pack covers the lunch box, water bottle, lunch bag, and name labels in one order — all personalised with your child's name.

Why personalisation is worth it

Schools and kindy centres are full of identical items. Lunch boxes, water bottles, and bags all look the same unless they have your child's name on them. Items without names get lost regularly and often end up in the lost property pile for weeks before being claimed.

Laser-engraved personalisation (as opposed to stickers or printed labels) is the most durable solution. It does not peel off in the dishwasher, fade in sunlight, or rub off with daily use. At Kids Decor Australia, all personalisation is free.