Some of Western Australia's most prominent private and independent schools have amassed financial reserves worth tens of millions of dollars in recent decades, with endowment fees supporting the ongoing investments of their associated foundations.
The cost of year 12 tuition at private schools in Western Australia rose by an average of 1.6 per cent for 2019, the lowest hike in fees among any state in Australia.
Long-serving leaders of three of Perth's most prestigious boys schools have announced their departure during the past fortnight, marking a shake-up for the education sector.
SPECIAL REPORT: Several high-profile schools have announced plans for restrained fee changes, including some freezes and reductions, in order to stay competitive after several years of weak economic performance in Western Australia.
A faltering economy and an increase in the number of people leaving the state compared with arrivals has failed to halt growth in enrolments at both local Catholic and other private schools, and public schools.
Independent schools across the state are benefiting from the experience some of Perth's most prominent business leaders have brought to their boards, providing greater diversity and structure to the decision-making process.
