Parents could be forced to pay thousands of dollars if they repeatedly refuse to ensure their children attend school.
Associate Education Minister David Seymour's announced the change as part of a firmer approach the Government's taking on school attendance.
Seymour told Mike Hosking schools will alert the ministry to possible prosecution cases and ultimately decide whether to take the parents to court.
He says they could be fined up to $300 initially, but for repeat offenders, it could be $3,000.
Parents of students who are absent because of health conditions, or who are genuinely engaged with the school, won't be prosecuted.
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The Mike Hosking Breakfast