New research has delivered welcome news for families in Western Australia, revealing that public schools in Perth are the most affordable in the entire country. The latest Cost of Education Index, compiled by Futurity Investment Group, provides a comprehensive look at the expenses parents face from the start of primary school through to the end of secondary education.
Perth Tops the Charts for Public School Affordability
The data presents a clear picture: the total estimated cost for 13 years of public schooling in Perth sits at $92,224. This figure is notably lower than the national average for public education, which is calculated at $102,837. This positions Perth's government schools as the most budget-friendly option in Australia.
In contrast, the cost scenario shifts dramatically when looking at the private education sector within the same city. The index shows that a 13-year private school education in Perth carries a hefty estimated price tag of $402,582. This vast difference underscores the significant financial commitment families make when opting for non-government schooling.
How Western Australia Compares to the Eastern States
The national breakdown highlights a substantial cost divide between the west and east coasts of Australia. Sydney claims the unfortunate title of the most expensive city for education, regardless of sector. For parents in New South Wales' capital, the total cost for public schooling reaches $133,514, while a private education soars to a staggering $569,981.
Melbourne follows as the second most expensive city. The figures show a 13-year public education in Melbourne costs around $128,388, and private schooling averages $458,755. Brisbane also records costs above the national average, with public education estimated at $110,326 and private at $323,419.
Kate Hill, a senior executive at Futurity Investment Group, pointed out that the cost disparity is largely driven by higher tuition fees and additional charges in the eastern states. She noted that while all families face considerable expenses, those in Perth and wider Western Australia are managing a relatively lower financial burden for core public education.
Breaking Down the Costs for Families
The Cost of Education Index doesn't just look at school fees. It provides a detailed annual estimate of what parents are spending across several key areas. For a typical child in a government primary school, annual costs are broken down into:
- Tuition and other school fees
- Uniforms and textbooks
- Extracurricular activities and sports
- School camps and excursions
- Technology requirements, including devices
- Transportation to and from school
These expenses naturally increase as a child progresses into secondary school. The index serves as a crucial planning tool for families, helping them forecast and budget for the long-term financial journey of their children's schooling.
The report arrives at a time when many Australian households are feeling the pressure from rising living costs. For WA families, the data offers a silver lining, confirming that the public education system in Perth provides a high-quality, yet more accessible, pathway compared to other major cities. This affordability factor is likely to be a key consideration for parents making one of the most important decisions for their children's future.
