The Andrews Labor Government is supporting families doing it tough, with more than 21,000 government school students provided uniforms through the Affordable School Uniforms Program this year alone.
Delivered through State Schools Relief, the program provides uniforms and other essential school items for families that need an extra helping hand and ensures that all students, regardless of their circumstances, can attend school feeling valued and included.
Families can receive support for individual school uniform items, school shoes, swimwear, stationery items, STEM calculators, textbooks, work boots for vocational students and school bags – ensuring every kid has the basics to excel in school. On average the program can save families more than $100 per application.
Since 2015, more than $42 million has been invested in the program which has supported more than 459,900 students with more than 1.72 million uniforms and other essential school items.
Families affected by short-term crisis and long-term chronic need are encouraged to contact their local school, with students affected by refugee status, homelessness, family violence, house fire, natural disaster, financial hardship, illness and emergency among those eligible for support.
Financial support for schools is also provided through the Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund, which gives students from disadvantaged backgrounds the ability to participate and attend a range of school events and activities which may not be possible due to the cost.
Government school students entering Prep and Year 7 who are eligible for this fund are automatically eligible to apply for a uniform pack from State Schools Relief.
The Victorian Budget 2019/20 delivered $27.1 million for the Affordable School Uniforms program up until 2023, adding to the previous four-year investment of $15.7 million, with $160.9 million invested over four years for the Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund since 2020.
As stated by Minister for Education Natalie Hutchins
“Through this initiative we’re ensuring every Victorian student is provided an equal chance to have a quality education and participate in school activities, regardless of their background or family circumstances.”
“Wearing a school uniform helps to create an important sense of belonging for children, and every student should feel valued and included throughout their educational journey.”
“With the rising cost of living, we know this program offers some relief for many families right now across the state.”
