School sectors

Schools throughout Australia belong in one of three main sectors:

• Government
• Catholic
• Independent

Government schools provide an educational opportunity for all students in the local area at a minimal cost (usually just voluntary contributions). Catholic schools generally admit students of Catholic faith and are governed by the state or territory's Catholic education department. Independent schools are governed by their own individual board and may have a religious affiliation or abide by a particular teaching philosophy. These schools typically have much higher fees. For many people, choosing a sector is the first and most fundamental step towards choosing a school.

Other options include:

• Selective and comprehensive schools
• Special interest schools