School fees and voluntary contributions

In NT Government schools, all the resources your child needs for the standard curriculum are free.

This includes:

• materials
• services
• instruction from teachers
• access to facilities.

You will not be charged a school fee for these.

There are optional extras and activities that can be charged as a school fee.

These extras are not required for the standard curriculum, and your child will not be disadvantaged if they don’t have access.

Back-to-School payment scheme

You may be able to use your Back-to-School entitlement to pay for extra curricular activities or resources.

Read more about the Back-to-School payment scheme.

Extracurricular activity fees

You may need to pay a fee for non-compulsory activities.

These are not part of the standard curriculum and might include:

• excursions
• camps
• sports gala days
• performances
• music or language lessons
• graduations and formals.

Your child will not be disadvantaged if they cannot participate in these activities.

Optional extra items

Your child will have the resources they need to fully participate in the standard curriculum.

You will own any items you decide to purchase for your child.

Additional items might include:

• their own textbooks and calculators (the school must provide these if you decide not to buy)
• extra stationery items
• headphones
• USB sticks
• school photos
• fitted safety wear, such as steel-capped boots.

These items are generally available to purchase from the school.

School uniform fees

It is a requirement for all school-aged children Transition to Year 9 to wear a school uniform.

Uniforms are charged as a school fee.

Read more about school uniforms for NT Government schools.

Financial hardship

Your child has the right to access all educational services provided by the school.

If you are experiencing financial hardship, your school will have equity provision processes to help you purchase optional extras and activities for your child.

Your school must advise you of any equity provisions they offer.

Contact your school for more information.

Your confidentiality, privacy and dignity will always be maintained.

Voluntary contributions

Voluntary contributions are parent or caregiver donations to the school.

They provide your school with extra funding for a specific purpose, such as new laptops or a new school bus.

The school must advise you of the specific purpose so you can decide if you want to contribute.

Your child will not be disadvantaged if you don't make a contribution.

If your child's school has gift recipient status, your voluntary contribution may be tax deductible.

School fees and voluntary contributions policies

For more information about school fees and voluntary contributions policies, go to the Department of Education and Training website.