Australian public school voluntary fees surge almost 40% in two years

Voluntary contributions, while optional, go towards sporting and music programs, stationery, out-of-school care and excursions. Photograph: Dean Lewins/AAP

The average amount paid in voluntary fees and contributions by parents with children at public schools has surged by almost 40% in two years, new data shows.

While government schools in Australia are free, they can request parents pay voluntary contributions or donate funding towards the curriculum or extracurricular activities.