482 Visa Dependent Child School Fees

The Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa, commonly known as the 482 visa, is a temporary work visa that allows Australian employers to sponsor skilled overseas workers to fill positions where there is a labour shortage. This visa is crucial in addressing skill gaps in various industries across Australia. One significant aspect for families relocating under this visa is the impact on school fees for their dependent children. Understanding these fees is essential for effective financial planning.

Below, you’ll learn everything you need to know about 482 visa dependent child school fees.

Impact of 482 Visa on Dependent Child School Fees

For families on a 482 visa, public school fees for dependent children can vary significantly depending on the state or territory. These fees are implemented to support the additional resources required to educate international students. Below, we provide a comprehensive overview of the school fees for 482 visa holders across different regions in Australia.

School Fees for 482 Visa Holders New South Wales (Annual)

State/Territory	Education Level	Annual Tuition Fee (AUD)
NSW	Primary School (KG-6)	5,600
NSW	Junior High School (7-10)	5,600
NSW	Senior High School (11-12)	6,400

School Fees for 482 Visa Holders Western Australia (Annual)

State/Territory	Education Level	Annual Tuition Fee (AUD)
WA	Pre-primary to Year 12	4,000

Fee Waivers and Reductions

Families experiencing financial hardship can apply for a fee waiver, but the application must be made within the year the fee is incurred. There are two types of financial hardship applications:

1. Income-Based Waiver: Families with a combined gross income of AUD 75,000 or less per year can apply for a fee waiver. This waiver is not automatic and must be reapplied for each year with supporting evidence.
2. Unforeseen Financial Hardship: Families facing unexpected financial difficulties, such as illness, unemployment, changes in employment conditions, family breakdown, or death, can apply for a fee waiver within six months of the event. Each application is assessed on a case-by-case basis and requires supporting documentation.

School Fees for 482 Visa Holders Victoria (Annual)

Dependent children of 482 visa holders are not required to pay tuition fees at government schools in Victoria. It’s important to note that other fees specific to the school may need to be paid. 

School Fees for 482 Visa Holders Queensland (Annual)

State/Territory	Education Level	Annual Tuition Fee (AUD)
Queensland	Primary School (Prep to Year 6)	8,000
Queensland	Secondary School (Year 7 to Year 12)	12,000

School Fees for 482 Visa Holders South Australia (Annual)

State/Territory	Education Level	Annual Tuition Fee (AUD)	Notes
South Australia	Primary School Students	5,400	Fees apply to the eldest child; 10% discount for siblings. Only the three youngest children are charged for families with four or more children.
South Australia	High School Students	6,500	–

Families on a 482 visa with children attending government schools in the greater Adelaide region are subject to tuition fees. However, as of January 2019, students in some country areas of South Australia are exempt from these fees. The fees are determined annually based on the family’s combined income while residing in Australia.

School Fees for 482 Visa Holders Northern Territory (Annual)

No fees are applicable to dependents of 482 visa holders in the Northern Territory.

School Fees for 482 Visa Holders ACT (Annual)

State/Territory	Education Level	Annual Tuition Fee (AUD)
ACT	Preschool	4,200
ACT	Years K-6	11,100
ACT	Years 7-10	14,500
ACT	Years 11-12	16,200

The Education Directorate in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) welcomes dependents of temporary residents to enrol in public schools from Preschool through to Year 12. However, Preschool enrolment is not mandatory and is subject to availability.

Fee Exemptions

Dependents of 482 visa holders whose occupation is listed on the Medium and Long Term Strategic Skills List or the Regional Occupations List may qualify for a fee exemption. To be eligible, families must provide a copy of the employment contract in the ACT, including start and end dates, ensuring the contract aligns with the approved occupation stated in the visa grant notification.

School Fees for 482 Visa Holders Tasmania (Annual)

State/Territory	Education Level	Annual Tuition Fee (AUD)	Notes
Tasmania	All Levels	No tuition fees	School levy of AUD 300 – 750 per year. Financial assistance available through STAS.

The Temporary Resident Program (TRP) facilitates the enrolment of school-aged children on temporary visas at any time during the academic year. Children must start school at the age of five by 1 January.

School Levels and Terms

The school year in Tasmania is divided into four terms and includes the following year groups:

• Primary School: Kindergarten to Year 6
• Secondary (High) School: Years 7-10
• Senior Secondary: Years 11-12

Tuition Fees and School Levies

Dependents of 482 visa holders are exempt from paying tuition fees at Tasmanian Government Schools. However, they are required to pay a school levy, which ranges from approximately AUD 300 to AUD 750 per year. This levy is charged directly by the school.

Financial Assistance

Families with low incomes who meet the eligibility criteria for the Student Assistance Scheme (STAS) will not be required to pay school levies. Grandparents raising grandchildren may also qualify for STAS. For those who do not meet STAS criteria but face financial hardship, it is advisable to discuss payment arrangements and other forms of financial assistance with the school. 

Discover More About the 482 Visa with Immagine Immigration

Understanding the school fees for 482 visa-dependent children is crucial for families planning to relocate to Australia. The fees can vary significantly across different states and territories, and it’s important for parents to be well-informed about the costs involved. By contacting the relevant educational authorities and departments, parents can ensure they have the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding school fees for 482 visa holders.

For more information and assistance with your immigration needs, visit Immagine Immigration. Our trusted team of immigration agents Melbourne is here to help you navigate the complexities of relocating to Australia and ensure a smooth transition for you and your family.

Contact us today to arrange a consultation on the 482 visa. 

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