Teacher Attrition Lower Than Most Think

Australia’s teaching workforce is stronger than many believe. Recent research shows that only 5% to 6% of teachers leave the classroom each year, which is significantly lower than in most other industries. This consistent retention rate supports classroom stability and challenges assumptions of widespread dissatisfaction among teachers.

Public concerns about teacher retention have grown, largely due to reports of burnout, pay issues and rising student needs. However, a recent study by the economics group e61 found that most teachers stay, and many who leave end up returning. In fact, 40% of teachers who leave come back within a decade, and 25% of those who leave to pursue further study eventually return to teaching.

Private schools, especially those in wealthier areas, tend to see higher exit rates than public or Catholic schools. Teachers in private schools are about 20% more likely to leave the profession, which may be linked to access to more career options outside education. While these schools may offer what appear to be better teaching environments, they may also expose teachers to opportunities that draw them out of the classroom.

One major finding that challenges common beliefs is the idea that teachers leave primarily for higher pay. On average, those who switch careers earn $21,000 less after ten years than teachers who stay. This suggests that financial motivations may not be the main reason for leaving.

Nationally, the number of teaching positions continues to rise. Full-time teaching roles increased by 2.8% since 2023 and by 11% since 2019. At the same time, more people are seeking teaching careers. Applications for teacher education programs rose by 7% for 2025, and the number of offers increased by 14%.

Federal initiatives such as the National Teacher Workforce Action Plan and scholarships up to $40,000 for those who agree to work in public schools may be playing a role in these positive shifts. The plan includes changes to teacher training that are built around how students learn, which may help better prepare new educators for the demands of the classroom.

Challenges remain, especially for early-career teachers in tough settings, but the overall picture is more balanced than many headlines suggest. Teacher attrition is not simply about burnout or poor conditions. Many teachers leave only briefly or move into other roles within education, and new teachers are showing renewed interest in entering the profession.

Source: Australian Financial Review, Australian Government Department of Education, Taylor & Francis Online, SAGE Journals