Labor believes that access to public education is a fundamental right and that a quality education should be available to everyone, regardless of their background, postcode or family income. By investing in our public education system, we are supporting the next generation to achieve their full potential.

The current average annual materials and services charge is $382 for primary students and $723 for secondary students. We know this creates pressure on family budgets, especially alongside other school costs such as uniforms and laptops. Labor wants to make it easier for South Australian families, because school fees should not get in the way of receiving the best education.

That is why a re-elected Malinauskas Labor Government has a bold, nation-leading plan to abolish public school fees, starting from the 2027 school year and making public education free for all South Australian children.

This means that each South Australian family with a child in public schooling will save more than $8,000 per child over 13 years of schooling. This money will go straight back into the pockets of families, providing immediate cost-of-living relief.