As the cost of living continues to bite, Queensland families are set to receive a welcome helping hand with back to school costs from 2026.
Under a new initiative announced in the Queensland Budget, families with children in primary school will receive a $100 voucher for each child from Prep to Year 6 to help cover school essentials, such as uniforms, stationery, books, and even extracurricular activities like sports and the arts.
Premier David Crisafulli said the Back to School Boost is a practical, ongoing measure designed to offer meaningful cost relief year after year.
“We are delivering a Back to School Boost, each and every year, to deliver ongoing cost of living relief for Queensland families,” he said.
“The start of school is an expensive time, and we’re delivering support where and when it’s needed to help cover the cost of back-to-school essentials.”
The new scheme will begin from the start of the 2026 school year and will apply to all Queensland primary school students, including those in state, Catholic, and independent schools. It will be delivered directly through schools for students who are enrolled and attending.
With school costs often adding up to hundreds of dollars per child before Term 1 even begins, the $100 boost is a timely response to growing community concerns. Parents are facing higher prices for groceries, rent, energy and fuel – and the cost of sending kids to school is no exception.
The cost-of-living crisis
Treasurer David Janetzki acknowledged the financial pressure on families, saying the Back to School Boost is part of a broader strategy to deliver long-term relief.
“Queensland families have been doing it tough, which is why the Back to School Boost will deliver help where and when it’s needed,” he said.
“Families deserve certainty, and we are delivering structural cost-of-living relief, just like we promised.”
The funding for the program – $250 million – has been locked into the state budget as an annual commitment. The aim is not only to provide financial relief but also to increase student attendance and strengthen ties to local school communities.
Education Minister John-Paul Langbroek said the new initiative would help remove barriers to learning.
“We want all children to receive a world-class education and this payment will apply to state, independent and Catholic schools to ensure no one misses out,” he said.
“Supporting families to obtain the stationery, books and resources needed will set their kids up for success and have them looking forward to starting the school year.”
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