Back-to-school costs rising as parents stress over school fees
Parents around Australia are growing more stressed about rising back-to-school costs, after new research revealed families spent $23.5 billion a year on annual education expenses.
Compare Club found back-to-school costs, including uniforms, stationery, bags, and tech, averaged $1555 for public school students, and $2100 for private school students.
"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," Compare Club's head of research Kate Browne said.
READ MORE: Boy charged with attempted murder after Coles worker stabbed
School children running away. They are wearing uniforms and carrying backpacks. They are having a race. Multi ethnic group with Asian, Caucasian and Aboriginal children. Rear view Getty
Browne said technology and devices accounted for nearly a third of back-to-school costs, averaging $496.
Uniform costs average $229 annually, while mandatory excursions cost parents another $255 a year, and practical subjects can cost up to $160 per course for senior students.
Around the country, Queensland averaged the highest private education costs of $13,449 a year per student, followed by South Australia at $11,918, and New South Wales at $10,622.
READ MORE: Family pay tribute to Melbourne DJ after tragic death in Bali
Education costs around Australia by state and territory. Compare Club
"Parents need to be particularly mindful of the cost progression from primary to secondary education," Browne said.
"This dramatic increase means families need to plan ahead and potentially adjust their financial strategies as their children progress through their educational journey."
Browne said stress levels were rising among parents from multiple age groups.
READ MORE: At least 100 dead after being trapped in illegal gold mine
Tech and device costs are the biggest back to school expense. Getty
"Young parents aged 25-34 are reporting double the stress levels regarding school fees compared to our previous report," she said.
"Meanwhile, parents in the 45-54 age bracket are showing a 30 per cent increase in anxiety over educational expenses."
She said strategic planning was "absolutely essential".
"My strongest advice is to start planning early, especially if you're in a high-cost state like Queensland or South Australia," she said.
IN PICTURES: TV show house left standing as LA neighbourhood burns
"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."
DOWNLOAD THE 9NEWS APP: Stay across all the latest in breaking news, sport, politics and the weather via our news app and get notifications sent straight to your smartphone. Available on the Apple App Store and Google Play.
Share a tip-off, video or photo with us
