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.

Schools receive funding 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 flexible funding and/or staff entitlement. Schools that receive staff entitlement under this loading are schools with existing positions associated with former equity programs.

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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