What is an Enrolment Management Plan (EMP) in Queensland?

An EMP is a set of criteria used by high-demand QLD state schools to manage enrolments. Schools with EMPs prioritise students living within the catchment area and may restrict or refuse out-of-catchment applications.

How are QLD school catchment boundaries determined?

QLD uses an equal-distance-point method, where each address is assigned to its nearest state school. This means boundaries sit at the midpoint between neighbouring schools and can change when new schools open.

How do I check my school catchment zone in Queensland?

Use EdMap (qgso.qld.gov.au/maps/edmap), the official QLD catchment map, or SchoolRank's catchment lookup tool. Enter your address to see your local state primary and secondary school.

Can I send my child to a QLD state school outside our catchment?

Yes, if the school has capacity and doesn't have an EMP restricting enrolments. Apply directly to the school. Schools with EMPs prioritise in-catchment students, so out-of-catchment approval is not guaranteed.

When did QLD move Year 7 to high school?

QLD transitioned Year 7 from primary to secondary school in 2015. Primary school in QLD now runs from Prep to Year 6, and secondary from Year 7 to Year 12.

QLD Catchment Zones Updated June 2026

School Catchment Zones in Queensland

Everything Queensland parents need to know about school catchment areas, Enrolment Management Plans, and how to find your zoned state school. Whether you are enrolling your child in Prep for the first time or moving to a new suburb, understanding how catchment zones work in QLD will help you plan ahead and avoid surprises.

Enter your street address

Check your address

Free, no signup. Official QLD boundary data on an interactive map.

Primary catchment · Junior secondary catchment

Real catchment boundaries: Mansfield SS and Mansfield SHS, Brisbane. One of Queensland's most-watched catchments, managed with an Enrolment Management Plan.