Monday 13 January 2025 - New research from Compare Club reveals the staggering cost of education across Australian states, with total annual education expenses reaching $23.5 billion*. The analysis shows significant variations between public and private education costs across different states, with technology expenses emerging as a substantial burden for all parents.
"Our comprehensive state-by-state analysis reveals that education costs vary dramatically across Australia, with even public school education carrying significant expenses that many parents might not anticipate," says Kate Browne, Head of Research at Compare Club.
"What's particularly concerning is that beyond the basic school fees**, families on average face additional costs of $1,555 per public school student and $2,100 per private school student just for essential items like uniforms, bags, and stationery - with technology and devices accounting for nearly a third of this expense at $496".
The research highlights stark contrasts between public and private education costs across states:
Queensland shows the highest private education costs at $13,449 per student annually
South Australia follows with private education costs of $11,918 per student
NSW private education averages $10,622 per student
WA private education costs on average are $8,326z
"Parents need to be particularly mindful of the cost progression from primary to secondary education," Browne advises. "This dramatic increase means families need to plan ahead and potentially adjust their financial strategies as their children progress through their educational journey."
Key findings from the research include:
Technology and BYOD devices represent the highest single expense at $496
Uniform costs average $229 annually
Mandatory excursions add $255 to yearly expenses
Practical subjects can cost up to $160 per course in senior years
Compare Club's Bill Stress Index reflects these rising costs' impact. "We're seeing concerning trends across all age groups," notes Browne. "Young parents aged 25-34 are reporting double the stress levels regarding school fees compared to our previous report. Meanwhile, parents in the 45-54 age bracket are showing a 30% increase in anxiety over educational expenses. This suggests the financial burden of education is affecting families across all life stages."
"For parents navigating these rising education costs, strategic planning is absolutely essential," says Browne. "My strongest advice is to start planning early, especially if you're in a high-cost state like Queensland or South Australia. Parents often focus on the immediate costs, but it's crucial to factor in how expenses will jump when your child moves from primary to secondary school. We're also seeing significant variations between regions – sometimes thousands of dollars – so it's worth researching both public and private options in your area. Don't forget to budget for those hidden costs too – technology requirements, uniforms, and excursions can add thousands to your annual expenses."
- ENDS-
Notes for editors:
*Cost of education in Australia per student returning to school, excluding the cost of devices and excursions.
**On average across primary and public schools
For media enquiries:
Erin Carley
Media + Capital Partners
0439 724 230
About Compare Club
Compare Club is one of Australia’s fastest-growing personal finance marketplaces. It helps Australians save money by navigating complicated and important financial decisions. Compare Club’s panel of experts offers bespoke advice to over 3.6 million members making 1 million product enquiries per year on key financial decisions, including health insurance, electricity and gas bills, and personal, car, and home loans. Compare Club is locally owned and employs 350 passionate staff across Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane and another 50 staff in Indonesia and the Philippines.
