This equity loading must be used to implement evidence-based practices that have a high impact on increased student engagement and improved learning outcomes for students from low socio-economic backgrounds.

In 2026, the socio-economic background equity loading is provided to support approximately 392,000 students in 2,182 NSW public schools.

How is the equity loading calculated?

The loading is based on a combination of student and school needs using the Family Occupation and Education Index (FOEI). The FOEI is a school-level index of educational disadvantage related to socio-economic background.

The school’s FOEI score is calculated from information on parent/carer level of school education, highest non-school qualification and occupational category. This data is collected on enrolment forms and recorded through the Enrolment Registration Number (ERN) system. Data is extracted from ERN in early Term 2 each year.

The socio-economic background equity loading is determined by the school's average FOEI score for the past 2 years. The equity loading is allocated to schools by need as identified by their FOEI score. A school with a high FOEI score is a school with a higher level of need.

In addition to the overall school FOEI score, students are also identified as being in a FOEI quarter based on parent/carer education and occupation information. The FOEI quarters for each student are calculated based on data for all NSW public school students.

The socio-economic background equity loading is based on students identified in quarter 1 and quarter 2 of the FOEI. Quarter 1 students are funded at double the rate of quarter 2 students, as research shows they have a higher level of additional learning needs.

Schools receive program funding and/or an entitlement staffing allocation. entitlement.

School planning, reporting and accountability

Schools must show how they will address the needs of their students from low socio-economic backgrounds 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.

Schools must use the equity loading in the year for which it is provided.

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