Maximise your time, minimise your stress — without spending a cent.

Whether you’re studying for exams, managing client projects, or juggling remote work tasks, the right productivity apps can transform how you get things done. And the best part? Many of them are free — and packed with features perfect for busy Aussie lifestyles.

From time-blocking tools to distraction busters, here are 10 free apps that students and professionals across Australia rely on daily to stay organised and on track.

✅ 1. Notion – Your Digital Brain

Best for: Notes, databases, dashboards, student planning

Notion is an all-in-one workspace where you can write, plan, and collaborate.
Aussie uni students love using it to manage assignments, create class dashboards, and track habits.

💡 Free for individual use with unlimited pages.
🌐 notion.so

✅ 2. Google Keep – Sticky Notes for the Cloud

Best for: Quick notes, to-do lists, reminders

Super simple and integrated with Google Calendar, Keep is great for capturing thoughts on the go. Shareable checklists make it ideal for group projects or household planning.

💡 Syncs across all Android & Google accounts.
🌐 keep.google.com

✅ 3. Trello – Visual Task Manager

Best for: Project planning, Kanban boards, study tracking

Create boards for each subject, project, or work task. Trello is popular in Australian startups and classrooms alike for its drag-and-drop simplicity.

💡 Unlimited personal boards in the free plan.
🌐 trello.com

✅ 4. Forest – Focus, Don’t Scroll

Best for: Distraction-free deep work using the Pomodoro method

Plant a virtual tree that grows while you stay focused — exit the app and it dies. It’s a gamified, eco-friendly way to fight phone distractions.

💡 Free on Android, low one-time fee on iOS.
🌐 forestapp.cc

✅ 5. Microsoft To Do – Clean Task Management

Best for: Daily planning, shopping lists, task tracking

Part of Microsoft 365, but totally free to use. Simple, fast, and integrates with Outlook — perfect for Aussie office workers and TAFE students.

💡 Syncs seamlessly with your desktop & mobile.
🌐 todo.microsoft.com

✅ 6. Clockify – Track Where Your Time Goes

Best for: Freelancers, students, remote workers

See how long tasks really take and identify time-wasters. Essential for billing, assignment tracking, and exam prep routines.

💡 Unlimited time tracking and projects — free forever.
🌐 clockify.me

✅ 7. Canva – Easy Visual Creation, Made in Australia 🇦🇺

Best for: Quick graphic design, reports, resumes, social media

Created in Sydney, Canva is a go-to tool for students and small business owners. Use it to design flashcards, event posters, or beautiful to-do lists.

💡 Free forever with access to thousands of templates.
🌐 canva.com

✅ 8. Focus To-Do – Pomodoro Timer + Task List Combo

Best for: Structured work sessions with breaks

Based on the 25/5 Pomodoro technique, it helps boost concentration with scheduled breaks. Great for exam cram sessions or work sprints.

💡 Free version includes timer, checklist, and basic stats.
🌐 Available on Android, iOS & desktop

✅ 9. Slack (Free Plan) – Workplace & Group Collaboration

Best for: Team chat, file sharing, project threads

Used by Australian startups, nonprofits, and uni teams. Share updates, pin tasks, integrate with Google Drive, Trello, and more — all in one place.

💡 Free for up to 90 days of message history and integrations.
🌐 slack.com

✅ 10. Habitica – Gamify Your To-Dos

Best for: Habit tracking with a twist

Turn your to-dos into role-playing game challenges. Build streaks, earn points, and unlock rewards. Ideal for kids, teens, and adults who need extra motivation.

💡 Free on mobile and web.
🌐 habitica.com