AISSA

The Association of Independent Schools of South Australia (AISSA) has launched SA Independent Schools – A Choice That Matters, outlining the sector’s key ‘Asks’ ahead of the 21 March State election.

The campaign highlights that Independent schools are the fastest-growing school sector, with more South Australians choosing a high-quality education that aligns with their values, beliefs and child’s needs.

Enrolments in SA have increased by 2.5%, with growth particularly strong in outer-suburban, regional and low-fee Independent schools.

AISSA’s Chief Executive Anne Dunstan says Independent schools play a key role in improving education outcomes for all South Australian children, while contributing $3.2 billion annually to the State’s economy.

“The AISSA works with government and Catholic schools to drive innovation and improved outcomes for all students,” Anne says.

“The Independent school sector’s 2026 State Election ‘Asks’ support a commitment to every child’s success and reinforce the importance of giving families genuine choice in education.”

The 2026 State Election ‘Asks’ by the SA Independent school sector include a commitment to:

No New Taxes or Fees for Non-Government Schools
Long-term Equitable State Government Recurrent Funding Commitment
Inclusive Education and Disability Support Funding Equity
Universal Access to Government-Funded Allied Health Student Support
Transport equity for Regional Students
Capital Infrastructure Support
Workforce Strategy Partnership
VET and Pathways Expansion
Early Childhood Investment and Reform Collaboration
Funding Parent Engagement Strategies
Cyber Security and Digital Resilience Investment
Collaborative Education Reform Advisory Group
Early Notification of State Government Education-Zone Sites for Sale

Did You Know?

The AISSA represents 105 schools with diverse religious, secular, values-based, and philosophical affiliations, that educate 55,000+ students and employ 10,000+ staff
The median annual fee for SA Independent schools is $4,498
Independent school enrolments reduced government and taxpayer expenditure by $500 million
State and Federal governments spend around $13,080 to educate an Independent school student, compared to $24,860 for a government school student

Strong Support. Great Outcomes. For Every Student.

AISSA Media contacts:

Anne Dunstan

Chief Executive

Association of Independent Schools of South Australia

(08) 8179 1400

AISSA Bulletin No.1: 4 February 2026

Please read the latest AISSA Bulletin:

AISSA Bulletin No. 1: 4 February 2026

MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENT: AISSA and Data#3 announce a new Priority Partnership

The Association of Independent Schools of South Australia (AISSA) is delighted to announce a new priority partnership with Data^#3, one of Australia’s leading technology solutions providers.

This collaboration marks an exciting step forward in supporting Independent schools and Early Learning Centres across South Australia as they navigate an increasingly complex digital landscape.

By working together, the AISSA and Data#3 aim to strengthen digital capability, enhance cybersecurity resilience, and empower school leaders with access to contemporary technology insights and solutions.

“Our partnership with Data#3 strengthens our ability to support schools in that work. Data#3 brings deep expertise in education technology, cybersecurity, and digital transformation – areas where many schools are seeking guidance and clarity.”

“Our member schools are deeply committed to providing students with the best possible educational experience, and that includes ensuring their digital ecosystems are secure, contemporary, and resilient,” says Mrs Dunstan. “This partnership strengthens our ability to support schools in that work.”

Data#3 National Practice Manager for Education, Mr David Wain, says, “Data#3 and AISSA share a commitment to strengthening the digital foundations of Independent education in South Australia. This partnership reflects our ongoing focus to support schools to thrive in a rapidly evolving environment.”

We look forward to working closely with Data#3, and keeping members informed as new initiatives roll out.

For more information about this partnership contact:

Contact AISSA
Anne Dunstan
Chief Executive
(08) 8179 1400

Contact Data#3
David Wain
National Practice Manager – Education
0413 442 668

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MEDIA RELEASE: SA Independent schools announce 2026 State election priorities

The 2026 State Election ‘Asks’ by the SA Independent school sector include a commitment to:

Did You Know?

AISSA Media contacts:

AISSA Bulletin No.1: 4 February 2026

MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENT: AISSA and Data#3 announce a new Priority Partnership

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