It will cost an average of $102,807 to send a child starting school this year to a public school from prep to 12 – 17 per cent above the $87,528 national average.
Last year, Melbourne’s average was $88,906.
In contrast, Melbourne’s Catholic schools were among the most affordable, averaging $184,399.
Futurity Investment Group executive Kate Hill said extra costs could be accruing for Melbourne parents because they were trying to make up for time spent remote learning during the pandemic lockdowns.
“School fees, outside tuition, school camps, transport, uniforms, electronic devices and sports equipment are demanding a far greater share of the family budget than in the past,” Ms Hill said.
“More than ever, the costs associated with education are placing more of a burden on Australian families, who are already stretched by the spiralling cost of living and rising interest rates.”
Top Education Costs – Government Schools (Prep – Year 12)
National average (metro areas) – $87,528
Melbourne – $102,807
Sydney – $89,500
Perth – $85,701
Adelaide – $83,306
New South Wales (regional and remote) – $82,823
South Australia (regional and remote) – $81,824
Brisbane – $80,419
Canberra – $77,002
National (regional and remote) – $75,795
Victoria (regional and remote) – $75,217
Western Australia (regional and remote) – $70,774
Queensland (regional and remote) – $68,597
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