Australian School Handwriting
Many parents are surprised to discover that Australian children do not all learn handwriting using the same font.
Unlike some countries that use one national handwriting style, Australian schools use different handwriting styles depending on the state or territory.
This means the handwriting resources children use at home should match the style taught at school. Practising with the wrong handwriting font can create confusion and make learning letter formation harder.
Australian Schools Use Five Different Handwriting Styles
Across Australia, schools use five main handwriting styles:
- NSW & ACT – NSW Foundation Font
- QLD – QLD Modern Cursive
- VIC, NT & WA – VIC Modern Cursive
- SA – SA Modern Cursive
- TAS – TAS Modern Cursive
Each handwriting style has its own rules for letter shapes, joins, starting points and formation patterns.
Which Handwriting Style Does My Child's School Use?
Why The Correct Font Matters
Handwriting is a movement skill. Children are not just learning what letters look like — they are learning how to create each letter correctly.
Using the correct handwriting font helps children practise:
- The correct starting points
- The correct stroke direction
- The correct letter shapes
- The same style used in the classroom
Consistency between home and school helps children build confidence and avoid unnecessary confusion.
The Problem With Generic Handwriting Resources
Many handwriting resources available online are created using generic fonts that do not match Australian school requirements.
A worksheet may look similar to the style your child learns at school but still have differences in letter formation.
- Different starting points
- Incorrect letter shapes
- Different joins
- Styles not used in Australian classrooms
For young children learning handwriting, these small differences matter.
Match Practice To Your Child's School
The best handwriting practice is the practice that reinforces what children are already learning in the classroom.
Before purchasing handwriting worksheets or flashcards, check which style your child's school uses.
- Ask your child's teacher
- Check your school's handwriting information
- Choose resources made for your state
Australian Handwriting Styles Explained
You can learn more about each handwriting style used across Australia:
Our handwriting worksheets and School Starter Kit are designed specifically for Australian children and support the handwriting styles used in Australian schools.
You can also explore our School Starter Kit or contact us for help choosing the right handwriting resources.
