The principal of a Government school may set fees for materials and services provided to students. A materials and services charge may consist of a compulsory component and a voluntary component. Only the compulsory component portion of the fees is recoverable as a debt due to the school council. However, a student cannot be refused materials or services if these fees are not paid [Education and Children's Services Act 2019 (SA) s 129].

If the student is under 18, their parents are liable for the debt. If the student is an independent adult then they are liable themselves. An adult student dependent on their parents is liable together with their parents.