PRIVATE SCHOOLS AID ECONOMY
TOWNSVILLE’S independent schools are pumping more than $160 million into the region’s economy and supporting almost 1200 jobs.
Independent Schools Queensland-commissioned modelling has revealed the 10 independent schools in Townsville support more than a thousand direct and indirect full-time jobs worth almost $100 million in wages and salaries.
There are more than 4380 students at Townsville-region independent schools, according to 2020 enrolment data.
Statewide, the independent school sector contributes almost $4.9 million to the economy.
ISC executive director David Robertson said the modelling showed the influence and impact of independent schools – which educated 15 per cent of school-age Queenslanders – extended beyond strong academic and civic outcomes.
“As communities and governments grapple with the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic, this new modelling reveals the critical role independent schools must continue to play to support jobs, build new social infrastructure, welcome fee-paying international students and build human capital,” Mr Robertson said.
“In the current environment, every dollar and job generated by independent schools is vital to the region’s economic recovery.”
The report finds Townsville independent school students represent more than $32 million in taxpayer funds freed for other uses.
This is an annual saving equivalent to building 19 new classrooms and employing 341 new teachers.
“This report shows that encouraging private investment in education pays enormous dividends,” Mr Robertson said.
“The private-public partnership between taxpaying independent school families and governments is a successful and enduring partnership which must continue with the support of ongoing public investment.”
The report
2017-2018 data. is based on