INDEPENDENT BOARDING

31 May 2022

INDEPENDENT BOARDING: A NATIONAL PERSPECTIVE is an In-depth analysis of the state of boarding in the Independent school sector and the prospects for Independent school boarding in Australia.

Boarding schools are a critical component of educational provision in Australia. They are located in metropolitan, regional and remote areas right across the country, are large and small, single sex and co-educational, and care for a diversity of students from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to international boarders. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students constitute an important and growing cohort of boarders in Independent schools.

This report was developed by ISA with the support of Associations of Independent Schools, school leaders, heads of boarding and families, providing a research-led, in-depth analysis of the state of boarding in the Independent school sector and the prospects for Independent school boarding in Australia. Analysis shows the economic and social benefits of boarding schools to the Australian economy and community are considerable.

The report describes concerns exist over the adequacy of available funding to ensure boarding schools thrive, particularly for regional and remote and Indigenous boarding schools.

Related information

Highlights of the Independent boarding school data on one page.

Boarding schools infographic 

(PDF download)


A report developed by ISA with the support of Associations of Independent Schools, school leaders, heads of boarding and families, providing a research-led, in-depth analysis of the state of boarding in the Independent school sector, and a detailed view on the current and future prospects of Independent schools boarding in Australia.

Independent Boarding School Data review

(PDF Download)


A report commissioned by ISA and undertaken by the AEC Group that provides an independent, evidenced-based assessment of the economic and social impact of boarding-related services and activities at Independent schools in Australia.

AEC Report – Socio-Economic Benefits of Boarding Schools

(PDF Download


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Independent boarding schools serve families right across Australia