Opposition Leader Tony Abbott has announced that a Coalition Government would make school fees an allowable deduction in an expansion of the Education Tax Refund. 

In a policy released today entitled "Real Help for Families" Mr Abbott undertook to expand and increase the existing scheme.

Under the policy rebates would be increased to $500 per Primary School student, and $1,000 per Secondary student. 

The list of items that can be claimed would, for the first time, include fees for parents who choose non-government schools. Under the Coalition plan the list would include: 

• School fees
• School camps and excursions
• Special education costs for children with disabilities, like dyslexia
• Extra-curricular activities such as music, dance or drama lessons
• Tutoring costs
• Musical instruments required for lessons
• School photos
• Sporting fees and equipment

Mr Abbott said the new rates would take effect from January 2011.

 Opposition Policy on the Education Tax Rebate