In an unprecedented move, this will be the third consecutive year that Catholic Education SA has not raised tuition fees.
In 2024, school fees will remain unchanged at:
- 59 Diocesan Catholic primary schools
- 22 Diocesan secondary and combined colleges
- 2 special schools – St Patrick’s and Our Lady of La Vang
- 1 special assistance school – Compass Catholic Community – remains fee-free
“We recognise that cost-of-living increases are putting significant pressure on families,” says Dr Neil McGoran, Executive Director, Catholic Education SA.
The bottom line is families matter. At a time when South Australians are experiencing high inflation, increasing interest rates and mortgage pressure, families need affordable school fees more than ever.
“Growth in enrolments across the State in our 101 Catholic Schools, together with prudent financial management, puts us in a position where we are able to hold tuition fees at this year’s level.”
The announcement comes as the sector continues to grow, with 1,400 Reception students starting at Catholic Schools in Term 3. Over 52,300 students now attend the 101 Diocesan and separately governed Catholic schools in South Australia. The sector’s August census shows enrolments have risen over 4% since last year’s census.
Dr McGoran said the fee-freeze will provide welcome relief to families and will not impact the quality of education.
“We’re genuinely committed to keeping school fees as low as possible and ensuring a Catholic education is affordable and accessible to all.”
Making Catholic Education more affordable
Since 2019, Catholic Education SA has been implementing the Making Catholic Education More Affordable Initiative to ensure our schools are accessible to any family who wants their child to have a Catholic education.
“We’ve introduced a range of initiatives, including widespread fee reductions, a low-income fee for families on modest incomes, and a free midyear intake for Receptions.”
In 2021, all diocesan Catholic primary schools reduced fees by an average of 15%.
In 2022, all diocesan Catholic primary schools froze their fees and diocesan secondary and combined colleges reduced fees by 1% to 7%.
In 2023, all diocesan Catholic primary, secondary and combined colleges froze their fees.
In addition to these measures, further fee remissions and reductions are available to any family who is struggling to pay school fees due to financial pressures. Families should contact their school for more information.
For more information or to find your local Catholic school:
08 8301 6600
cesa.catholic.edu.au
