Mansfield State High, a large state school in Brisbane, attracts families from far and wide. Nearly a third of its students travel outside the local area to attend.
High Demand for State Schools
The popularity of state schools like Mansfield State High and Brisbane State High School (BSHS) is changing the property market in certain Brisbane suburbs. In West End, the area linked to BSHS, real estate agents often highlight the school’s catchment zone in property advertisements.
This demand has pushed housing prices, with the median house price in West End reaching $1.65 million. Families are renting in the area simply to gain access to the school, despite the strict enrolment policies in place to prevent those who do not live within the catchment from enrolling. These policies require substantial proof of residency, including lease agreements and utility bills.
Capacity and Overcrowding
Despite having a maximum capacity of 3,000 students, BSHS had 3,521 students enrolled last year. Mansfield State High, which can hold 3,252 students, also exceeds its capacity with 3,651 students. This overcrowding concerns local community groups, who worry that planned high-density developments in areas like the Kurilpa peninsula will put even more pressure on schools and local infrastructure.
The P&C groups from both BSHS and West End State School have raised concerns about the impact of increased residents on schools, green spaces, and transport.
Alternative Schooling Options
While state schools are popular in areas like West End and Mansfield, other suburbs prefer private education. Suburbs such as Sandgate, Ashgrove, Kedron, and Camp Hill have more students attending Catholic high schools. Ascot, Gumdale, Chelmer, Bulimba, and East Brisbane have more students attending independent schools.
Interestingly, the median income of families in West End, who prefer state schools, is higher than that of some of the suburbs, which favour private schools. This shows that school choice is not solely based on income.
Planning for the Future
The Queensland school planning reference committee has indicated that a new primary school may be required in the South Brisbane, West End, Highgate Hill area within the next ten years. The government opened Brisbane South State Secondary College in Dutton Park in 2021 to relieve pressure on BSHS.
This new school has a capacity of 1,524 and currently has 968 students. 62% of its students live outside its catchment area. Brisbane’s ongoing population growth means careful planning is needed to ensure all students have access to quality education.
Published Date 25-March-2025
