The persistent chirp of ‘back to school’ ads this time of year forms the soundtrack to life and prompts parents around the nation to fumble absently for their wallets.
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It is a costly time of year, especially if there are several children in the uniforms.
But the cost is particularly stark for parents in regional Australia, who are paying on average $7000 more than their city counterparts.
For children starting school in regional NSW this year, the ASG Planning for Education Index estimates it will cost $73,808 by the time they finish year 12.
Nationally, it comes to $57,994. In Sydney, parents will be paying $66,470 by the end of the 13 years.
Data takes an average of costs associated with fees, extra curriculum tuition, excursion, camps, uniforms, supplies (including connected devices), transport, sport and musical instruments.
The contrast in regional Australia remains sharp for parents who choose to send their children to Catholic schools too.
Over 13 years, the total comes to $112,248 compared to $109,877 in the metropolitan areas.
Similarly for independent schools it is $203,654 compared to $201,210.
Costs are on the rise as well, and in some cases, it is a sharp increase.
The ASG estimates education has doubled the rate of inflation over the past decade.