Public school fees for non residents in Melbourne
14 September 2011
Hi. Im looking to understand what the cost for Public schools are in Melbourne for non residents. Can anybody help me ?? Thanks Ian
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Stephanie's Website
Can you be more specific about the visa you'll be on in Melbourne. Those expats who hold a 457 visa don't need to pay school fees in Victoria for public schools, they're treated just like citizens and permanent residents.
That said, you'll still need to make a "volunatary contribution" and pay for things like uniforms, excursions, visiting performers, extra lessons, end of year events, charity events etc etc so nowhere is going to be totally free.
For more information, read the Expat Arrivals Education and Schools in Melbourne page.
If you have further questions you can always email: international@education.vic.gov.au
Stephanie
Thank you very much for the information on school fees…
Would you know an average cost for the "voluntary contribution" ??
A ball park figure would help.
Thanks again
Living in:
From:
Stephanie's Website
Voluntary contributions in Melbourne are very much a grey area, and tend to vary from institution to institution, and also according to the age of your child.
A while ago the Herald Sun reported that, "Parents were being hit for 200 AUD to 400 AUD at primary schools and up to 1000 AUD at secondary schools."
Schools often say that voluntary contributions are necessary to pay for materials and resources, even though parents are responsible for paying for textbooks and stationary separately.
Remember that you are not obligated to pay these contributions, so if the fee is exorbitant and you cannot afford it, don't be afraid to question the institution seemingly enforcing it. They cannot legally deny your child his/her free education.
Let me know what other questions you may have on the matter, and if trying to plan a budget for your relocation, be sure to check out our article on contract negotiation.
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