The following information on parent voluntary contributions and school curriculum and materials charges includes guidelines to assist school councils and principals with the implementation of the Department of Education, Employment and Training's policy. It also provides details of those materials and services which parents may be expected to provide or pay the school to provide.
Instruction is defined as the action of imparting knowledge through the teaching process.
There has been a significant increase in funding for schools since the end of 1999. Government funding is provided to schools through the school global budget for the operating costs associated with the education of students. Further funding is provided for the capital costs of providing and maintaining school facilities as well as the provision of furniture and equipment. The Government has commenced the process of providing additional resources to schools in line with its commitment to ensure that all students are provided with educational programs of the highest quality. Given the substantial extra funds provided to schools, the Government directs that schools not charge parents for the essentials of education.