Independent Schools Australia

13/10/2026

NO SINGLE SCHOOL. NO SINGLE FAMILY.

Families choosing Independent schools are not a single economic or social group.

The Great Education Shift report found that 49% of parents say they would be less likely to vote for a representative who described private or Independent schools as mainly for the wealthy or elite.

The research highlights the diversity of families choosing Independent schools and the importance of describing schools and families accurately rather than relying on stereotypes.

Learn more in The Great Education Shift report: https://schoolchoicecounts.isa.edu.au/research/thegreateducationshiftreport/

06/10/2026

06/10/2026

CHOICE STRENGTHENS THE EDUCATION SYSTEM

Australian families have different needs, priorities and aspirations for their children.

Independent schools reflect that diversity. The sector includes schools in metropolitan, regional and remote communities, faith-based schools, boarding schools, Special Assistance Schools, majority Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander schools, and schools with a wide range of educational approaches.

A diverse schooling system gives families more opportunities to find the learning environment that best meets their child's needs.

Learn more in The Great Education Shift report: https://schoolchoicecounts.isa.edu.au/research/thegreateducationshiftreport/

02/10/2026

29/09/2026

AFFORDABILITY IS THE PRESSURE POINT

Families value school choice, but rising costs remain a significant concern.

The Great Education Shift report shows many parents are concerned about possible fee increases, with inflation and running costs identified as the leading driver of rising school costs. Families also point to staffing, technology, compliance and reduced government funding as contributing factors.

The findings highlight why affordability matters, not only to individual families, but to maintaining access and choice across Australia's schooling system.

Learn more in The Great Education Shift report: https://schoolchoicecounts.isa.edu.au/research/thegreateducationshiftreport/

27/09/2026

22/09/2026

FAMILIES MAKE REAL SACRIFICES

Families are making school decisions within the same economic conditions affecting the wider community.

The Great Education Shift report shows that cost of living is the dominant issue for many Independent school families, with 66% identifying it as the most important issue they want governments to address. More than half (53%) say they are currently under significant financial pressure.

The research also found that many families plan years in advance for school fees, with 57% saving for at least three years and 10% saving for more than a decade. Three in four (75%) have adjusted their household budget to afford current school fees.

These findings highlight the long-term financial commitment many families make to access the education they believe best meets their child's needs.

Learn more in The Great Education Shift report: https://schoolchoicecounts.isa.edu.au/research/thegreateducationshiftreport/

17/09/2026

Discover how The Avenue School is expanding its Years 7–10 offering in 2027 to create greater continuity, support re-engagement and help students thrive.