What is the difference between zoned and unzoned schools in SA?

Zoned schools have a defined geographic boundary giving nearby families guaranteed enrolment. Unzoned schools use proximity-based catchment areas. The nearest students get priority, but there's no formal zone boundary.

How do I find my school zone in South Australia?

Use the Location SA MapViewer at location.sa.gov.au to view school zones by enrolment year, or use SchoolRank's catchment lookup tool for schools in our database.

Does South Australia go to Year 7 in primary school?

Yes. SA primary school runs from Reception to Year 7, and secondary school from Year 8 to Year 12. This differs from NSW, VIC, and QLD where Year 7 is part of secondary school.

Can I enrol my child at a school outside our zone in SA?

For zoned schools, you can apply but in-zone students have priority. For unzoned schools, the school uses a placement procedure based on proximity and other criteria. Contact the school to discuss availability.

How often do SA school zones change?

The Department for Education reviews zones regularly. Changes are most common when new schools open or existing schools reach capacity. Updated zone maps are published for each enrolment year.

SA Catchment Zones Updated June 2026

School Catchment Zones in South Australia

South Australia's school zoning system is unique among Australian states because it formally distinguishes between "zoned" and "unzoned" schools. Whether you are buying a home in Adelaide, relocating to a regional town, or planning ahead for your child's schooling, understanding this distinction is essential. This guide explains how school zones and catchment areas work in SA and helps you find your local school.

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

Primary school zone · High school zone

Real school zones: Linden Park Primary School and Glenunga International High School, Adelaide.