Sector · 33 schools
Independent (Non-denominational) schools in Australia (2026)
Non-denominational independent schools have no religious affiliation. This includes some of Australia's most prestigious schools (Sydney Grammar, Geelong Grammar Senior, Pembroke) plus newer co-educational independents. Fees range $20k–$55k. They emphasise academic excellence + co-curricular breadth without religious framework.
Characteristics
What sets Independent (Non-denominational) schools apart
- ›Mid- to top-tier fees ($20k-$55k Year 12)
- ›No religious framework or chaplaincy
- ›High proportion of co-educational schools
- ›Academic excellence + co-curricular breadth focus
- ›Often more progressive curriculum and pedagogy
Decision frame
Choose a Independent (Non-denominational) school if...
You want strong academics and full co-curricular breadth without religious framework. Often the choice for non-religious families seeking elite outcomes.
Schools in this sector
All 33 Independent (Non-denominational) schools, sorted by ICSEA
Sydney Grammar School
Darlinghurst, Sydney
Ascham School
Edgecliff, Sydney
Ascham School
Edgecliff, Sydney
Brisbane Grammar School
Spring Hill, Brisbane
Ruyton Girls' School
Kew, Melbourne
Lauriston Girls' School
Armadale, Melbourne
Reddam House
Bondi, Sydney
Hills Grammar School
Kenthurst, Sydney
Somerville House
South Brisbane, Brisbane
Pembroke School
Kensington Park, Adelaide
International Grammar School
Ultimo, Sydney
Wilderness School
Medindie, Adelaide
Haileybury
Keysborough (also Brighton, Berwick, Melbourne CBD), Melbourne
Scotch College Perth
Swanbourne, Perth
St Michael's Grammar School
St Kilda, Melbourne
Brisbane Boys' College
Toowong, Brisbane
St Leonard's College
Brighton East, Melbourne
Oxley College
Burradoo, Sydney
Wesley College Perth
South Perth, Perth
Frensham School
Mittagong, Sydney
The Friends' School
North Hobart, Hobart
Somerset College
Mudgeeraba, Gold Coast
Fahan School
Sandy Bay, Hobart
Methodist Ladies' College Perth
Claremont, Perth
Penleigh and Essendon Grammar Senior
Keilor East, Melbourne
Toowoomba Grammar School
East Toowoomba, Brisbane
Penleigh and Essendon Grammar (PEGS)
Essendon, Melbourne
Hunter Valley Grammar School
Ashtonfield, Newcastle
Kardinia International College
Bell Post Hill, Geelong
Presbyterian Ladies' College Perth
Peppermint Grove, Perth
Haileybury Rendall School
Berrimah, Darwin
Brisbane Girls Grammar School
Spring Hill, Brisbane
The Essington International Senior College
Nightcliff, Darwin
Common questions
FAQs about Independent (Non-denominational) schools
What is a Independent (Non-denominational) school?
Non-denominational independent schools have no religious affiliation. This includes some of Australia's most prestigious schools (Sydney Grammar, Geelong Grammar Senior, Pembroke) plus newer co-educational independents. Fees range $20k–$55k. They emphasise academic excellence + co-curricular breadth without religious framework.
How many Independent (Non-denominational) private schools are in Australia?
Our database currently profiles 33 Independent (Non-denominational) private schools across 10 Australian cities. Nationally there are more (especially Catholic systemic where ~700 parish schools exist); we focus on schools where 2026 fees + ICSEA are publishable.
What do Independent (Non-denominational) schools cost in 2026?
2026 Year 12 fees for Independent (Non-denominational) schools in our database range from $16,645 to $52,410. The median is around $31,890. Most also charge levies (technology, capital, camps) adding 8-15%.
Do Independent (Non-denominational) schools offer boarding?
15 of 33 Independent (Non-denominational) schools in our database offer boarding. Boarding fees add $25,000-$45,000/year on top of tuition.
When should I choose a Independent (Non-denominational) school?
You want strong academics and full co-curricular breadth without religious framework. Often the choice for non-religious families seeking elite outcomes.