Labor’s new payroll tax on independent schools announced in the state budget is a tax on families,
Nationals MP Gaelle Broad said today.
Independent schools have historically been exempt from payroll tax.
“The increased cost of this tax on independent schools will flow through to families who are already
struggling with rising living costs,” Ms Broad said.
“In many families both parents are working and making sacrifices to provide a quality education for
their kids. With the rising cost of living and higher interest rates, they simply cannot afford higher
school fees.
Ms Broad has contacted independent schools, who were devastated by the news and concerned
about the financial impacts of the new payroll tax.
“Schools operate as not for profits and already have tight budgets. They put every dollar back into
school programs, teachers, and facilities to provide the best outcomes for students.
“They are not sure yet how they will pay for the new tax, if they need to cut programs and reduce
staff, or raise fees.”
“I’ve spoken with a school that has developed a masterplan for the next 20 years, and may need to
pay $500,000 in payroll tax. They just don’t know how they are going to pay for it and what they
need to cut.
Ms Broad said if independent schools closed there would be a massive problem as other schools in
the region are already full.
“We need independent schools as they reduce the pressure on the public education system.”
“Independent schools are still in limbo, waiting on details from the Government.”
“Labor’s style of government is to announce changes without consultation and without any details.”
“They just announce changes and expect people to come along for the ride,” Ms Broad said.
“Our students, families and schools deserve better. We want to see this tax on schools scrapped.”
“The Nationals and Liberals oppose the tax and will repeal it if elected to government in 2026.”
Caption: Gaelle Broad MP explains the fallout from Labor’s new schools tax.
Media Contact: Linda Barrow 0484 303 764 linda.barrow@parliament.vic.gov.au
