Early interventions ‘missed’ as NSW struggles with shortage of school counsellors

Figures show there is one counsellor for every 650 students, despite inquiry recommending ratio of 1:500

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A dire shortage of school counsellors means New South Wales students are going without disability assessments and early interventions as staff scramble to triage the most serious cases, including suicide risks, sexual assaults and teen pregnancies.

Department of Education figures obtained by Guardian Australia reveal there was one counsellor for every 650 students across the state in August, not accounting for staff on uncovered leave - meaning the reality was far worse.

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