The national peak body for Independent schools says that parents, educators and schools around the country have been alarmed by the Victorian Government’s decision to remove payroll tax exemptions on some non-government schools.
The national peak body for Independent schools says that parents, educators and schools around the country have been alarmed by the Victorian Government’s decision to remove payroll tax exemptions on some non-government schools.
Independent Schools Australia (ISA) Chief Executive Officer, Mr Graham Catt said today, “this remarkable decision to impose a tax on learning has caused anxiety and confusion for school communities right across Australia.”
“Parents make real sacrifices so they can use their after-tax income to send their children to a school that matches the needs of their children, their aspirations for them and the values of their family.”
“Now these parents feel that their contribution is at risk of being used as a source of government revenue”.
“These concerns aren’t just being felt in Victoria,” said Mr Catt. “If one state can take this ill-considered action, then there’s concern that others might follow, and there are also implications for the way the Commonwealth Government funds non-government schools.”
“This policy shows a lack of understanding about the consequences imposing this tax will have for schools, families, teachers and their communities. Those consequences extend far beyond the school gates.”
“We urge the Victorian Government to reconsider this tax on learning and its unintended consequences.”
ISA is the national peak body representing 1,209 Independent schools with 688,638 enrolled students (full time equivalent), accounting for approximately 17 per cent of Australian school enrolments. Independent schools employ 115,000 staff and 19 per cent of all teachers in Australian schools.