Brace yourselves, parents: private school fees are skyrocketing, and it’s not just about education anymore.
In a move that’s leaving families across Melbourne reeling, some of the city’s most prestigious private schools are hiking tuition fees by thousands of dollars, far outpacing the current inflation rate of 3.2%. But here’s where it gets controversial: is this about maintaining educational excellence, or is it a calculated strategy to maintain exclusivity? Let’s dive in.
St Kevin’s College has led the charge with a staggering 16% increase in Year 12 tuition for 2026, pushing fees from $30,360 to $35,360—plus an additional $1,200 building levy. Despite this jump, the school claims it will remain more affordable than its peers like Geelong Grammar, which retains the title of Victoria’s priciest school with Year 12 fees surpassing $55,000—a 5.2% increase. Wesley College follows closely behind, charging just under $50,000. And this is the part most people miss: these hikes aren’t isolated. Schools like Loreto Mandeville Hall (up 8.5% to nearly $43,000), Ruyton Girls’ School (6.4%), and St Michael’s Grammar (6.1%) are all following suit.
School officials cite rising costs, including a 7% pay increase for Catholic school teachers and the state government’s controversial payroll tax, expected to cost St Kevin’s $3.3 million next year. But is that the full story? Education economist Adam Rorris argues that these fee increases are less about financial pressures and more about prestige—a way to exclude those who can no longer afford the escalating costs. “It’s an exclusionary system,” he says, “and it’s working exactly as intended.”
Bhavika Unnadkat, from the Australian Parents Council, paints a grim picture of families struggling to cope. Some are taking on extra jobs, while others are forced to choose which child remains in private education. In extreme cases, parents are moving younger children to the public system to keep older siblings in private schools. “It’s incredibly distressing,” Unnadkat notes, highlighting the emotional and financial toll on families.
Meanwhile, schools like St Kevin’s defend their fees by pointing to their academic success, claiming the increases are necessary to maintain resources for senior students. But Rorris counters that many schools are funneling funds into lavish projects—think underground swimming pools and elaborate sports facilities—rather than core educational needs. “They’re manufacturing exclusivity,” he says, raising questions about whether taxpayer funding for private schools is justified.
Independent Schools Australia reports that despite these fee hikes, enrollments have risen for eight consecutive years, now accounting for 18% of Australian students in 2024. Victoria leads the charge with 23.2% of students in independent schools, second only to NSW at 32.8%. But at what cost?
Here’s the burning question: Are private schools prioritizing education or exclusivity? As fees continue to climb, who gets left behind, and is it fair? Share your thoughts in the comments—this is a conversation that needs your voice.
