MEDIA RELEASES

ISA Media Release – Indigenous Boarding Schools Receive Critical Funding Extension

23 October 2024

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) is pleased to welcome today’s announcement by the Federal Government to extend the Indigenous Boarding Schools Grants Program for an additional two years.

ISA Media Release – Government Capital Grants a Positive Step But More Support Needed for Indigenous Boarding Schools

17 October 2024

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) has welcomed today’s announcement by the Federal Government of capital grants funding for three Indigenous boarding schools in the Northern Territory, describing it as a significant step towards improving school infrastructure.

Media Release – New Report Highlights Urgent Need for Long-Term Support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Boarding Schools

1 October 2024

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) has released a new report, Supporting Their Futures: A Sustainable Model for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Boarding, which highlights the critical role of boarding schools in the education of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students from remote communities and the urgent need for stable, long-term funding.

ISA Media Release – Urgent Action Needed to Close The Gap for Indigenous Boarding

12 September 2024

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) is urgently calling on the Federal Government to provide immediate and sustained funding to Indigenous boarding schools, many of which are now at serious risk due to discontinued government grants.

ISA Media Release – ISA Calls for Fair Funding Across All School Sectors, and an End to the Blame Game

6 September 2024

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) today expressed disappointment to see, yet again, the AEU using the complexity of school funding as a smokescreen to launch misguided and misleading attacks on individual non-government schools and their communities.

Media Release – Independent Schools Australia Welcomes Tim Bullard as New CEO of AITSL

20 August 2024

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) is pleased to welcome Tim Bullard as the newly appointed CEO of the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL).

Media Release – Schools Agreement must support all Australian students for reform to succeed

31 July 2024

All Australian students, in all schools, must be supported to benefit from school reforms, Independent Schools Australia (ISA) said following the release today of the Better and Fairer Schools Agreement (BFSA) by the Albanese Government.

ISA Media Release- Philanthropy Inquiry final report a bitter blow for families, schools and communities

18 July 2024

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) today expressed grave concerns that the Productivity Commission’s Future Foundations for Giving Inquiry Report has recommended that activities related to early childhood education and care, and primary and secondary education should be excluded from Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status.

Innovative education model puts First Nations culture first

11 July 2024

Dynamic approach to teaching improves student outcomes at Independent school

Independent Schools Australia Welcomes Rachel Holthouse as New Chief Executive of Independent Schools Victoria

5 July 2024

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) congratulates Rachel Holthouse on her appointment as the new Chief Executive of Independent Schools Victoria (ISV).

Caboolture School at Capacity as Demand For Independent Sector Rises

17 June 2024

A special assistance school in Caboolture is at capacity and in desperate need of new premises, highlighting the growing demand for Independent schools that provide inclusive and relevant education for young people who have not suited mainstream schooling.

Full and Fair Funding For All Won’t be Achieved Through Attacks on Schools

7 June 2024

Independent Schools Australia said that the common goal of ensuring all Australian students, in all school sectors, are fully and fairly funded is undermined when non-government schools are demonised and school funding levels misrepresented.

Media Release – ISA Snapshot 2024 – More Parents Are Choosing Independent Schools

6 June 2024

ISA's Annual Snapshot shows enrolments grew 3.8 per cent in 2023, and now makes up 17.6 percent of all Australian students, compared with 4.1 per cent in 1970.

Media Release – Schools Funding Agreement Remains The Main Game Following Budget

14 May 2024

Independent Schools Australia says that there is little news for school education in tonight’s Budget, as States, territories and the Australian Government continue to negotiate funding and the next national schools agreement.

Media Release – Schools For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Students Will Close Without Ongoing Support

13 May 2024

Independent Schools Australia has warned that large numbers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students attending boarding schools are at risk of their schools closing, removing the only secondary school option for many from remote communities, if the Budget does not secure ongoing funding

Media Release – Budget Should Fully and Fairly Fund All Schools

13 May 2024

Independent Schools Australia said any initiatives in tomorrow’s Budget should fully and fairly fund all schools, and support parents who want to choose from a diverse range of schools to find the best education option for their child.

Growth in Independent School Enrolments Shows Families Want Choice

9 May 2024

More and more families are benefiting from the choice and diversity that middle- and low-fee Independent schools such as Maronite College of the Holy Family, in Parramatta, offer their communities.

Media Release – Early Years Strategy Is Key For Every Child To Reach Their Full Potential

7 May 2024

Independent Schools Australia welcomes the Early Years Strategy’s vision that all children have the opportunity from birth to reach their full potential and be nurtured, as well as have a sense of connection and belonging as part of a strong community.

Media Release – Independent Schools Welcome Additional Government Support for Future Educators

6 May 2024

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) today welcomed the Australian Government's announcement of the new Commonwealth Prac Payment, which will see student teachers across all school sectors receive much needed financial support during their mandatory workplace placements.

Independent Schools Play a Vital Role in the Northern Territory

1 May 2024

Independent schools are a vital part of educating Northern Territory students, particularly those in remote locations, ISA Chief Executive Graham Catt said. Mr Catt, visiting Darwin for the Association of Independent Schools Northern Territory Leadership Forum, said growing student enrolments in the Territory reflected parents wanting to take advantage of the choice that Independent schools provided.

Media Release – New report identifies ten innovative practices that improve student outcomes in schools

16 April 2024

Independent School Australia (ISA) today released a landmark report, Improving Outcomes for All: Leading Reform Through Innovation, that shows how Independent schools can actively improve student outcomes through innovative practices.

Media Release – Independent schools welcome the announcement of copyright reforms to facilitate remote learning

12 April 2024

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) has welcomed the announcement of copyright reforms to facilitate remote learning by the Attorney-General, the Hon Mark Dreyfus KC MP.

New data highlights surging demand for Independent schools across Ryde, Eastwood and Epping despite cost-of-living pressures

8 April 2024

Independent Schools Australia launches new data at Northcross Christian School highlighting the growing demand for choice of schooling across the electorate.

Media Release – Independent Schools Highlight Innovation with Minister Clare

21 March 2024

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) and principals and teachers from Independent schools in Western Australia, South Australia and Queensland highlighted innovation in priority areas for reform including equity, wellbeing and workforce in a meeting with Minister for Education the Hon Jason Clare MP.

Media Release – Every NT School Should Be Fully and Fairly Funded

13 March 2024

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) has welcomed the announcement of additional funding for Northern Territory public schools to get them to 100% of the Schooling Resource Standard (SRS) by 2029, but reiterates that every student should be fully and fairly funded, regardless of which school they attend or where they are located.

Media Release – National Conversation Needed on Capital Works to Ensure Student Outcomes and Safety

23 February 2024

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) has called for a national conversation on increased funding and support for capital works in all schools to improve student outcomes and to provide a safe environment.

GOVERNMENT MUST RULE OUT PARENT TAX CHANGE

16 February 2024

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) has welcomed comments confirming that the Federal Government is not considering a tax change that would punish parents and school communities and families who want to donate towards new classrooms and support scholarships.

Media Release – ABS data highlights school enrolment growth across all sectors

14 February 2024

Figures released today by the Australian Bureau of Statistics show that for the first time in several years all school sectors are recording positive enrolment growth.

Media Release – Tax change could jeopardise scholarships

13 February 2024

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) has warned student scholarships, many of which go to Indigenous Australians and students from low socio-economic backgrounds, may be axed if the government took away the ability for parents and communities to make tax-deductible school donations.

Tax Change Would Ground Student Buildings

31 January 2024

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) has warned students would suffer if the Government took away the ability for parents and communities to help build their classrooms and canteens.

Media release: ‘Improving Outcomes For All’ will need genuine commitment to supporting all schools

11 December 2023

National peak body Independent Schools Australia (ISA) has welcomed the release of ‘Improving Outcomes for All: The Report of the Independent Expert Panel’s Review to Inform a Better and Fairer Education System.’

Media release – New national AI framework will help schools with approach to generative AI

1 December 2023

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) welcomes the Australian Government’s release of the Australian Framework for Generative Artificial Intelligence in Schools.

Media release – Focus on education, not division

20 November 2023

Media release – Forum on schools that re-engage students

7 November 2023

Independent Schools Australia hosts a forum on 7 November 2023 at Australian Parliament House on how special assistance schools re-engage students in education.

Media release – Commonwealth’s teacher bursaries should be available to teachers in all school sectors

6 November 2023

The Commonwealth Government’s new teaching bursary program is a welcome investment in addressing teacher shortages, but Independent Schools Australia (ISA) has called on the Commonwealth Government to review the decision to exclude teachers who find employment in non-government schools around the country.

Media release – ‘Be That Teacher’ campaign highlights contribution of teachers

31 October 2023

The new government campaign ‘Be That Teacher‘ to attract more talented people to the teaching profession shows just how important a teacher can be to a student’s life.

Media release – Independent schools celebrate World Teachers’ Day

27 October 2023

We can all remember a teacher who inspired us, or helped us navigate through a difficult situation in our lives.

Media release: Independent Schools welcome the Disability Royal Commission report

4 October 2023

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) welcomes the release of the Disability Royal Commission’s final report.

Media release – Independent schools back calls for better funding

2 August 2023

With submissions to the Australian Government’s Review to Inform a Better and Fairer Education System closing tomorrow, the national peak body for Independent schools is backing calls for Australian government schools to be funded to 100 per cent of their Schooling Resource Standard.

Media release – Issues and opportunities presented by generative AI in education

28 July 2023

ISA has made seven recommendations in its submission to help to chart a safe and ethical path that maximises opportunities and minimises potential risks for schools.

Media Release – On-Country learning funding welcomed by Independent schools

27 July 2023

ISA has welcomed additional Commonwealth funding to Central Australian schools next year.

Media release: Collaboration critical to national reform

7 July 2023

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) congratulates the Federal Minister for Education, Jason Clare MP, state and territory education ministers, and the National School Reform Agreement Expert Panel for convening today’s Ministerial Reference Group meeting.

Media release: Independent school peak welcomes Teacher Education Expert Panel report

7 July 2023

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) has commended the Teacher Education Expert Panel on the release of the Strong Beginnings report today.

Media release: Victoria’s tax on learning will hurt families and schools

30 June 2023

The Victorian Government’s announcement that it will impose payroll tax on non-government schools with fees of $15,000 or more will hurt dozens of schools and thousands of Victorian families.

Media release: Focus on education, not division

28 June 2023

With the review of the National School Reform Agreement underway, the national peak body for Independent schools is calling for a focus on education and collaboration following recent publicity about school funding. 

Media release – National body for Independent schools urges Victoria to reconsider tax on learning

9 June 2023

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.

Media release – Independent Schools Australia welcomes Dr Michele Bruniges as AITSL Chair

7 June 2023

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) welcomes the appointment of Dr Michele Bruniges AM as the new Chair of the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) by Education Minister Jason Clare.

Media release – New report shows social contribution of Independent schools

2 June 2023

A new report launched today by Independent Schools Australia (ISA) and McCrindle Research describes the significant contribution that Independent schools make to our communities.

Media release -Victoria’s shock schools tax

25 May 2023

Victoria's shock schools tax will hurt Independent schools, parents and teachers

Media release: Nationwide snapshot of Independent schools released

18 May 2023

Media release: Budget provides certainty for Independent schools

9 May 2023

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) welcomes the Federal Budget released tonight, which confirms commitments already made by the Australian Government that support continuity of funding for Independent schools.  

Media release: Re-engaging students in education – New report released

3 May 2023

Independent Special Assistance Schools Showcase released today

Media release – Independent Schools Australia announces new CEO

24 February 2023

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Graham Catt as Chief Executive Officer.

Media release – ABS data shows parents continue to choose Independent schools

15 February 2023

Figures released today by the Australian Bureau of Statistics show that more children are enrolled in Independent schools than ever before.

Media Release: ISA congratulates new Secretary of the Department of Education

7 February 2023

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) warmly welcomes the appointment of Mr Tony Cook PSM as Secretary of the Department of Education.

Media release: ISA congratulates new AHISA CEO

7 December 2022

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) congratulates Dr Chris Duncan on his appointment as CEO of Heads of Independent Schools of Australia (AHISA).

Media release – Independent schools welcome Minister’s decision on deeming

3 December 2022

The Minister for Education has promised to avert funding shock for schools that serve some of the most disadvantaged students in Australia.

Media release: Early Childhood education and care – Environmental scan released today

24 November 2022

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) has released its environmental scan of the early childhood education and care sector today.

Media release: Independent schools are accountable to parents, communities and the public

10 November 2022

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) responded strongly today to comments challenging the financial accountability of non-government schools.

Media release: ISA welcomes consultation on draft plan for teacher workforce

4 November 2022

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) is pleased to see the Australian Government’s National Teacher Workforce Action Plan has been released for consultation.

Media release: What the Federal Budget means for Independent schools

26 October 2022

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) welcomes the Australian Government’s Budget last night, which affirmed election commitments of continued support for the wellbeing of students, to take steps towards addressing the shortage of teachers and early childhood educators, and to broaden access to childcare subsidies.

Media release: Budget commitments for early childhood services will help

25 October 2022

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) welcomes the Australian Government’s Budget commitment to increase the number of early childhood educators.

Media release: More teaching places at universities welcomed

24 October 2022

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) welcomes the Australian Government’s announcement of more university places for students under-represented at Australian universities including those from poorer backgrounds, Indigenous Australians and students from rural and remote Australia to become educators.

Media release: ISA welcomes announcement of Teacher Education Expert Panel

23 September 2022

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) welcomes the announcement yesterday by the Minister for Education that an expert panel will review how teaching is taught at universities.

Media release: ISA congratulates new Education Minister

1 June 2022

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) welcomes the appointment of the new Minister for Education, Jason Clare MP, following the recent Federal Election.

Media release: Boosting investment in teachers is good for education

9 May 2022

ISA welcomes the major parties’ commitments to invest in teachers if elected. Plans to boost teacher education will benefit students and Australia.

Media release: Seeking assurances from Federal Election candidates

22 April 2022

Independent schools call on Federal Election candidates to support families’ choice in education.

Media release: Federal Budget provides certainty for Independent schools

30 March 2022

The Independent school sector is reassured by Federal Budget, which provides for wellbeing programs, educational reforms and more access for those in regional areas to boarding school places and childcare.

Media release: Welcome support for Indigenous boarding students

25 March 2022

ISA welcomes the announcement of greater support for Indigenous students to attend boarding schools.

Media release: Non-Government schools impacted by floods receive additional funding

23 March 2022

The Australian Government has provided an additional $5 million to support flood affected Independent and Catholic schools in NSW and Queensland.

Media release: ISA releases annual snapshot of Independent school sector

18 March 2022

ISA released its annual snapshot of the Independent school sector at yesterday’s National Education Forum

Media release: National Education Forum in Canberra today

17 March 2022

Representatives of the Independent schools will hear presentations by the Education Minister, Shadow Education Minister and other leaders in the sector.

Media release: Respectful relationships start in childhood

8 March 2022

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) supports Labor’s pledge today to invest $77 million in teaching students what respectful relationships look like. Teaching students about respectful relationships is a key component of the cultural shift Australia needs.

Media release: ABS data shows significant growth in Independent school enrolments

23 February 2022

The ABS reports significant growth in Independent school enrolments as families increasingly turn to Independent schools.

Statement: All students deserve protection against unfair discrimination

9 February 2022

ISA upholds the principle that no student, regardless of the school they attend, should be subject to unfair discrimination on any grounds, including sexuality or gender identity.

Media release: ISA welcomes Labor policy for schools

25 January 2022

ISA commends the Leader of the Opposition, the Hon Anthony Albanese announcement of a fund of $440 million for schools to invest in facilities and services that will support students’ wellbeing if Labor is elected.

Media release: Additional funding will support students in remote areas

13 January 2022

ISA welcomes the announcement by the Minister for Indigenous Australians and the Minister for Regional Education, of additional funding for boarding schools in remote areas.

Media release: Australia’s first Regional Education Commissioner

6 December 2021

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) congratulates the Hon Fiona Nash on her appointment as Australia's first Regional Education Commissioner.

Media release: Understanding school choice

11 October 2021

The 2021 School Choice Research Report was released today by ISA.

Media release: National code for boarding schools

20 September 2021

The new National Code for boarding school student is a welcome relief for students and families during the pandemic.

Media release: NAPLAN results reflect the resilience and commitment of students and teachers

25 August 2021

Independent Schools Australia congratulates students, their families, teachers and school leaders for their resilience and commitment to learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Media release: ISA welcomes additional support for parents in early years of learning

12 May 2021

Independent Schools Australia (ISA) welcomes the 2021-22 Budget funding of $1.6 billion for preschools over the next four years as part of a new four-year funding agreement with the states and territories.

Media release: Independent schools educating one in six Australian students

21 April 2021

Independent schools now educate 1 in 6 Australian students, according to Independent Schools Australia’s (ISA) newly released Independent Schools at a Glance 2021.

Media release: Resources to support respectful relationships welcomed

20 April 2021

ISA welcomes announcement of investment in respectful relationships in schools

Media release: ISA supports recommendations of Disability Standards for Education Review

12 March 2021

Independent sector says recommendations of Disability Standards for Education Review will benefit students with disability, families and schools.

Media release: Increasing confidence in Independent schools

19 February 2021

New ABS statistics show parents continue to show confidence in Independent schools.