Gold Coast school uniforms pricey — but sending to school in free dress even more expensive

A Gold Coast Bulletin analysis of local school uniform price lists has revealed just how much parents are shelling out each year — and the results may surprise you.

A GOLD Coast Bulletin analysis of local uniform price lists shows that families are spending on average $82.70 for a single basic primary school outfit and $126.31 for a single basic senior school outfit.

A basic uniform which includes only a top, bottom and hat has been revealed to jump an average of $40 when a student progresses from primary to high school.

On the Coast parents are forking out the most for private school students with a single basic uniform costing an average of $154.53 for seniors and $97.21 per primary student.

The costs of dressing children in school uniforms can be expensive.

GOLD COAST SCHOOLS RAISING FEES

Accessories like compulsory bags, socks, blazers, shoes, sports uniforms and ties run in addition to these costs.

The average Gold Coast state primary school uniform runs at just $70.77 and high school sits at just $96.44.

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In most cases girls are marginally cheaper to dress for school because they are given the option of the dress as an alternative to shorts and a shirt which can save parents an average of $10 per outfit.

Pictured at the Stevens St Community Op Shop in Southport Mr Rene Perrin, who sells cheap uniforms. Pic Mike Batterham

The most expensive senior uniform could be found at Tamborine Mountain College with the average basic outfit running to $216.

This is attributed to the cost of the school’s Akubra hats priced at $130 each for grades 3-12.

The cheapest basic high school uniform was found at Palm Beach-Currumbin State High school with a basic formal uniform costing $85.00.

GOLD COAST’S CHEAPEST SCHOOL FEES REVEALED

For primary schools Tallebudgera came in at the cheapest with a basic uniform costing $58.

Parents however say they are paying far more as they purchase at least three basic uniforms per child and a new set of shoes each term.

Parents are buying more than just one uniform though, making it more expensive.

Gold Coast mum Hazel Ridgway, who sends her son to Helensvale High School, said she estimates she spends at least $500 each year, with year seven being the most expensive.

“I bought all new uniforms from the high school shop for my son starting last year and it was insanely expensive — over $500 plus shoes at $80,” she said.

“As he grew so much in a year, we have to start again this year!”

Ms Ridgway who supports wearing uniforms said online marketplaces for second-hand clothing can help keep the budget in check.

“Having the set wardrobe is awesome for organisation of kids at any age. Free dress would be more expensive especially for teens. It just doesn’t feel like it because we don’t purchase the volume of free dress all at the same time,” she said.

“I like uniforms because the kids are not judged on quality of clothes,” says Ms Ridgway. Picture: John Appleyard

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“I like uniforms because the kids are not judged on quality of clothes. Making lower income families survive school years.”

Jennifer who sends her two sons to an exclusive Gold Coast private school said it is the smaller compulsory items that add up.

“A new full uniform would cost us around $800,” she said.

“We have prescribed belts, socks and bags, bags alone are $70 and it is not like they are made of leather.”

P & C Queensland president Kevin Goodworth said schools make every effort to ensure uniform prices remain affordable.

“It is true to say public education is free in terms of teaching but it certainly is not a cost free exercise,” Mr Goodworth said.

“That is why the work being done by P & C is so critical,” he said.

“The main pain area for parents is technology where children are asked to bring their own laptops, but this is often a once off cost.”

“Most school do have active second hand stores or discounts available to those in need to ensure no one goes without.”