Contact your school

Public schools

School fees are not compulsory in public schools. If you cannot afford to pay the fees do not pay them. You are not required to pay them. If the public school demands fees get advice.

If you want to contribute, pay what you can afford. Explain to the school that you can afford the full expenses but will contribute what you can and when you can.

You can also ask the school for financial assistance when you cannot afford basic compulsory items like a uniform, school excursion and basic school supplies. Many schools have funds set aside to cover expenses for families in financial hardship

Independent and Private Schools

Contact your school as soon as possible and ask to speak to the principal or school financial manager. Explain that you’re having difficulty paying fees.

If you are behind in fees, the school can ask your child to leave and/or pursue any outstanding debt from you. Aim to keep paying what you can afford and put an agreed payment plan in place.

When talking to the school ask about:

Hardship policies

If the school has a hardship policy, try to negotiate a payment plan that you can afford and confirm it in writing.

Student assistance schemes

In most states and territories there’s some form of student assistance scheme that can help families on a low income. Ask your school if they have access to such a scheme.

Waiving the debt

In some cases the school might waive the debt. A school may waive or reduce your fees or debt if:

• you have had a long association with the school; or
• your child brings some academic, sporting or other curricular prestige to the school.

You might even suggest performing a professional or other service for the school in exchange for the fees or debt being reduced or waived.

Changing schools

If you can’t afford the fees for the foreseeable future you might need to change schools. Try to negotiate this so it is as painless as possible for your child.