A public school in Elanora Heights has drawn attention after reportedly requesting parents to provide communal classroom supplies. Although the school announced that contributions are purely voluntary, an Education directive has previously been issued instructing schools to avoid such requests amid cost-of-living pressures.
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Elanora Heights Public School allegedly asked each kindergarten student to bring a box of tissues, two packets of wet wipes, and a packet of whiteboard markers in 2025. The request comes despite previous warnings from the Department of Education for schools to use their allocated budgets for such items.
NSW Education Department Secretary Murat Dizdar previously instructed principals not to use language suggesting that voluntary contributions were mandatory. Schools were also advised to avoid terms such as “fee,” “charge,” or “levy” when discussing contributions.
On its website, Elanora Heights Public School stated that all contributions are voluntary. The website reads:
“Like all NSW public schools, we can request contributions to enhance our educational and sporting programs including elective subjects. School contributions help provide additional educational resources for the benefit of students. Payment is voluntary.”
It further advised parents to consider costs associated with school attendance, including uniforms, books, equipment, excursions, and co-curricular activities.
Some NSW public schools have reportedly stopped requesting communal classroom supplies or additional payments in line with the department’s directive. However, questions remain about why some schools continue to ask for such contributions.
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A spokesperson from the Education Department reiterated that financial contributions remain entirely voluntary but did not directly address why some principals continue to request communal supplies.
The spokesperson also said that while public schools are allowed to request voluntary contributions from families, such payments are entirely optional and will remain so.
Published 10-February-2025
