Reducing back-to-school costs

Planning ahead can help you stay on top of back-to-school costs.

Ways to spend less on school uniforms and supplies

Uniforms, bags, stationery, fees, lunches, excursions and computers — the costs of sending kids to school soon adds up. Uniforms and stationery can be big up-front costs. But there are ways to reduce how much you spend.

Spread the costs

Only buy uniform items that your child needs for the first term. Put off buying extra sets or warmer clothes until the season changes.

Find out when your child needs different books and stationery supplies. Don't buy all of the stationery items at once. Wait until your child needs them, which may be later in the year.

Go second-hand

Most school uniform shops or parent associations sell second-hand uniforms at reduced prices.

For books and calculators, check second-hand bookshops, noticeboards or online marketplaces. Or ask parents with older kids if they have any used items.

At most schools, you don't need to upgrade your child's laptop or tablet every year. When you do need to upgrade, find out if you can buy computers through the school at a discount.

Label everything

Put your child's name on every uniform and stationery item. You can order cheap customised labels online or through a stationery supplier. Labelled items are more likely to be returned if they get lost.

Buy at sales

Make a list before you go shopping. Stick to your list and only buy what you need, when you see sales and clearances. This could be after the school year starts. Find out if your school has any deals with local businesses to offer discounts to school families.

Look for value

Go for durable and quality items, if you can. Look for sales and discounts at stores known for good-value products and fair prices.

And you can use buying school items as a way to teach your kids about money. If your kids are older, agree on a budget and get them to do the shopping.

Do an advance budget for the school year

Ideally, do a budget before the year starts. Estimate any extra costs that might come up during the year. Things like excursions, camps, sporting events, music lessons and project supplies. You can use our budget planner to record all your costs and tally up the total.

Get help with school costs

No Interest Loan

If you need help to cover education costs for your child, consider a No Interest Loan. You could get a loan of up to $2,000 for things like a laptop, school fees or uniforms. You don’t pay any fees or interest on the loan.

Ask Good Shepherd about No Interest Loans (NILs).

Saver Plus

If you’re on a tight budget, the Saver Plus program can help you pay for education costs. You set a savings goal and for every dollar you save up to $500, you will have your savings matched. Eligible costs include text books, uniforms, computers, TAFE and VET fees. 

To be eligible for Saver Plus you must receive a Centrelink payment. 

Ask the Brotherhood of St Laurence about Saver Plus.

Financial hardship support through your school

If you're experiencing financial hardship and struggling to meet school costs, speak to the school principal. Most schools have financial assistance programs for families.

Where to get support from the government

Services Australia

Services Australia has payments and services to help with your child's education and health care. To find out more, see raising kids on the Services Australia website.

State governments

Each state government offers financial assistance to school students to help cover education costs.

Public transport

If your child catches public transport to school, apply for a student concession card. Some states offer subsidies to support school students to travel to and from school.

If you're struggling, there's always help available! Learn more about financial counselling services you can use.