The equity loading must be used to address the additional learning needs of English as an additional language or dialect (EAL/D) learners, including Aboriginal EAL/D learners.

In 2026, the English language proficiency equity loading will support approximately 203,000 students in 1,746 NSW public schools.

How is the equity loading calculated?

Student data reporting in the EAL/D data collection in June is used to calculate a school's equity loading allocation for the following year. It is moderated for:

• international students
• scholastic year
• refugee students
• length of time in an Australian school.

Schools receive the equity loading as a staffing allocation and/or a flexible funding.

School planning, reporting and accountability

Schools must show how they will address the needs of their EAL/D learners in their School Excellence Plan (SEP). Accountability for the use and impact of the equity loading occurs through the school’s annual report and the annual reflection of needs-based funding.

The equity loading must be used in the year for which it is provided.

More information