Independent Schools Queensland (ISQ) has welcomed the ongoing capital funding for non-state schools, and a boost to the Non-State Schools Transport Assistance Scheme, outlined in the 2022-23 State Budget.

Eligible Queensland independent schools will have access to the second tranche of a three-year, $180 million capital funding allocation to the non-state school sector.

This $60 million allocation is in addition to the ongoing baseline capital funding program of $55 million per annum.

ISQ CEO Chris Mountford [pictured below right] said the funding would be used to help fund capital projects, which are predominantly funded by a growing base of independent school parents.

“Enrolment figures for Queensland independent schools are at an all-time high, with more than 140,000 students enrolled at independent schools now representing 15.9% of all school enrolments across the state,” he said.

“ISQ thanks the Queensland Government for this ongoing funding commitment which, coupled with substantial parent contributions, will help ensure the facilities at Queensland independent schools are able to adequately suit this increased demand.”

Transport and school zones funding

The 2022-23 State Budget also saw funding allocated to transport and school zones for all schools, including the independent sector.

The Non-State Schools Transport Assistance Scheme will receive an increase of $565,000, taking this funding to just over $7 million.

The scheme provides assistance for eligible families transporting students to and from non-state schools in Queensland through two programs – the Bus Fare Assistance Program and the Students with Disability Transport Assistance Program.

Meanwhile, two key programs to deliver safety improvements around schools have received more than $40 million as part of the Palaszczuk Government’s Budget.

The programs will fund more school crossing supervisors and transport infrastructure projects such as car parks, pedestrian crossings and “stop, drop and go” zones.

Mr Mountford said the increase in funding for these programs would be welcomed by families, with more than 70 Queensland independent schools accessing the Non-State School Transport Assistance Scheme since it was introduced.

“As many families face rising cost of living pressures, this additional funding will give eligible parents the assurance that their children will enjoy a safe, reliable and cost-effective commute to school regardless of where they live in the state,” Mr Mountford said.

“Schools have a responsibility to ensure children are safe from the moment they arrive at school to the moment they leave, and this funding will help schools meet that duty of care.”

More information

This story was originally published as Independent Schools Queensland welcomes 2022-23 State Budget on the ISQ website.