Independent Schools Australia (ISA) has welcomed the Federal Government’s decision in tonight’s Budget to continue funding for the Indigenous Boarding Provider grants program but warned long-term certainty is still urgently needed for schools, students and communities.
ISA CEO Graham Catt said the Budget reinforced the need for governments to continue ensuring that policy settings reflect changing enrolment trends and family expectations across Australian education.
“Independent schools are the fastest-growing part of the Australian education system because parents are looking for the environment that best suits their child,” Mr Catt said.
“Families are making deeply personal choices about their children’s education, often making significant financial sacrifices to do so.”
“At a time when cost-of-living pressures remain significant for many families, education affordability continues to matter enormously.”
“Government policy must continue to support affordability, accessibility and parental choice in education.”
Mr Catt said the $23.8 million until the end of 2027 in continued funding for Indigenous boarding schools was an important recognition of the critical role these schools play in supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students from remote Australia.
“These schools are changing lives and providing educational opportunities for thousands of young people from some of the most remote parts of the country,” he said.
“They provide cultural connection, pastoral care, stability and support for students who otherwise may not have access to ongoing secondary education.”
Mr Catt said Indigenous boarding schools would be relieved to see the extension of grants, following concerns about funding uncertainty and strong advocacy for continued support.
“Tonight’s announcement is a good first step, but it is challenging for schools to plan effectively when they are constantly facing funding cliffs and short-term extensions.”
“These communities deserve a sustainable long-term funding model that allows schools to plan, invest in staff and continue supporting students with confidence.”
Mr Catt said ISA was also seeking further clarification around the Budget’s projected $472.1 million savings through schooling compliance measures, including a focus on the students with a disability loading.
“The Independent sector supports some of the most vulnerable students in Australia with complex needs, including through more than 100 Special Assistance Schools,” he said.
“We support accountability and proper oversight of public funding, but it is important that any compliance measures are carefully designed and do not create unintended consequences for students genuinely requiring additional support.”
Mr Catt also noted the Budget did not provide certainty beyond 2029 for Choice and Affordability Funding, which supports school accessibility, affordability and vulnerable students across the Independent and Catholic sectors.
“The Choice and Affordability Fund has played an important role supporting low and middle-income families, First Nations students, and school communities impacted by events such as floods and drought,” he said.