Is this family checklist free for schools to share?

Yes. Schools, P and C groups, employers and community organisations are welcome to link to or print this checklist for new and enrolling families. It is independent, free to use, and contains no advertising.

What is the single most important step before moving with children?

Confirm the school catchment for your exact address in writing with the school office before you sign a lease or contract. Catchment boundaries can split a single street, and popular Sunshine Coast schools manage enrolments tightly.

How far ahead should we start planning a family move?

Start three to six months ahead if you can. That leaves time to contact schools, join before and after school care waiting lists, gather enrolment documents and test the school run before committing to a suburb.

Free printable for families

Moving to the Sunshine Coast with children - checklist

A one-page printable covering school enrolment and catchment checks, before and after school care, healthcare, the school run and the first month of settling in. Print it, save it as a PDF, or share the link.

3 to 6 months out

Choose the area and the school

Shortlist two or three suburbs based on work location, school preference and budget.
Check each candidate address on the Queensland Government EdMap catchment tool.
Contact school offices about enrolment availability, catchment status and waiting lists.
Join outside school hours care and day care waiting lists for your shortlist.
Request school reports, immunisation history and any support or medical plans.

1 to 3 months out

Confirm housing and enrolment

Confirm the address with the school in writing before signing a lease or contract.
Lodge enrolment applications with proof of address, birth documentation and immunisation records.
Drive or map the school run at drop-off and pick-up time, including wet-weather options.
Check Translink school bus routes and whether a go card is needed.
Book removalists around term boundaries where possible.

The move

Set up the practical details

Keep enrolment confirmation, birth certificates, immunisation records and reports in carry-on luggage.
Arrange uniforms, book packs and any device requirements with the school.
Connect electricity and internet before arrival so the first night is calm.
Pack a separate essentials box for each child: bedding, medication, chargers and comfort items.

The first month

Settle in

Register with a local GP clinic and transfer dental and specialist records.
Meet the school office in person; ask about parent groups and volunteering.
Join one club, team or library program per child in the first few weeks - nippers, sport or arts.
Locate the nearest medical centre, pharmacy and after-hours options.
Revisit the suburb and school choice after a term before committing to a purchase.

Reviewed 10 September 2026. General planning information only - always confirm catchments, enrolment requirements and deadlines directly with the school and the Queensland Department of Education. Source: https://www.movingtosunshinecoast.com.au/family-checklist

For schools and community groups

Free to share with new and enrolling families

This checklist is independent, free to use and free to link to. Schools, P and C groups, employers and community organisations are welcome to share it with families arriving on the Sunshine Coast - no registration, no paywall, no advertising.

Printable family checklist: https://www.movingtosunshinecoast.com.au/family-checklist
Family relocation guide: https://www.movingtosunshinecoast.com.au/moving-with-children
School catchments explained: https://www.movingtosunshinecoast.com.au/school-catchments

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Direct answers

Quick answers

Is this family checklist free for schools to share?: Yes. Schools, P and C groups, employers and community organisations are welcome to link to or print this checklist for new and enrolling families. It is independent, free to use, and contains no advertising.
What is the single most important step before moving with children?: Confirm the school catchment for your exact address in writing with the school office before you sign a lease or contract. Catchment boundaries can split a single street, and popular Sunshine Coast schools manage enrolments tightly.
How far ahead should we start planning a family move?: Start three to six months ahead if you can. That leaves time to contact schools, join before and after school care waiting lists, gather enrolment documents and test the school run before committing to a suburb.

Keep planning

Use the checklist with these guides and tools

Family relocation guide School catchments explained Compare the suburbs Commute and school checker Full relocation checklist

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