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  • Why has the Government increased the minimum school leaving age?

    The minimum school leaving age has been raised to ensure that school leavers have the opportunity to maximise their preparation for further education, training, employment or a combination of these.

    There is compelling Australian and international research which demonstrates that people with higher levels of schooling are more likely to make a successful transition to further education, training, or work. The research also demonstrates that early school leavers are two and a half times more likely to be unemployed, earn lower wages and have poorer quality of life outcomes; and that those who do not leave school early generally enjoy enhanced life choices and better economic and social outcomes.

    The ongoing negative effects from leaving school early affect not only the individual, but also the economy and society as a whole.

  • Is the school leaving age changing in other states?

    Yes. All states and territories in Australia are making similar changes to make sure that young people stay at school longer and gain skills to help them in their future lives.