As the cost of living continues to rise across Australia, many families are feeling the pressure. To provide relief, the New South Wales (NSW) government has introduced a valuable program aimed at easing the financial burden. The Active and Creative Kids vouchers are a great way for eligible families to access financial support, but with just a few weeks left to apply, parents and guardians should act quickly.
This program offers a $50 voucher, available twice a year, to assist with the cost of their children’s participation in various sports, creative arts, and cultural activities. For eligible families, these vouchers can help reduce the financial strain, allowing children to engage in enriching experiences that contribute to their development.
Key Details of the Active and Creative Kids Vouchers
In 2024, approximately 600,000 children in NSW are eligible for these vouchers, with the program receiving an annual allocation of $28 million in funding. However, this year, the vouchers are means-tested, meaning they are now only available to families receiving the Family Tax Benefit. This adjustment ensures that the support goes to those who need it the most, helping children access extracurricular activities, regardless of their family’s financial situation.
Voucher Breakdown:
- Voucher 1: Available since Term 1, 2024. Must be used by December 31, 2024.
- Voucher 2: Available since Term 3, 2024. Must be used by July 14, 2025.
Parents can apply for both vouchers at the same time and combine them to receive a total of $100 worth of support for their child’s activities.
How to Claim the Active and Creative Kids Voucher
Claiming the voucher is simple, but there are a few steps you’ll need to follow:
- Eligibility Check: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria, such as receiving the Family Tax Benefit (Part A or B) and being a NSW resident.
- Create an Account: If you haven’t already, create an account on the Service NSW website, which is where you’ll apply for the voucher.
- Log In: Once you have an account, log in to the Service NSW portal.
- Complete the Application: Locate the Active and Creative Kids Voucher section, fill in the details for you and your child (including age and eligible activities).
- Upload Documents: Upload necessary documents, such as your Centrelink CRN, Medicare card, and identity documents for both you and your child.
- Review and Submit: Double-check everything to make sure it’s correct, then submit the application for approval.
- Voucher Approval: After your application is reviewed, you’ll receive confirmation once the voucher is issued.
- Use the Voucher: Once approved, the voucher can be redeemed at any registered activity provider offering eligible programs.
Where Can the Voucher Be Used?
The Active and Creative Kids vouchers can only be redeemed with registered activity providers. These providers offer a range of creative, educational, and physical activities that children can participate in.
Eligible Activities Include:
- Sports: Soccer, basketball, rugby, tennis, gymnastics, netball, yoga, martial arts, and more.
- Creative Arts: Dance, music, drama, visual arts, choreography, circus arts, creative writing, and coding.
- Cultural Engagement: Activities like learning languages, singing, and exploring other cultural expressions.
Keep in mind that the voucher cannot be split across multiple providers; it must be used in full with one registered provider for an eligible activity.
Act Quickly to Secure Your Voucher
With the deadline for Voucher 1 quickly approaching, now is the time for families to apply and secure their $50 Active and Creative Kids voucher. This initiative is a valuable resource for eligible families in NSW, helping children access a wide variety of extracurricular activities that promote their physical, mental, and creative development.
With $28 million allocated annually, the NSW government’s commitment to supporting families is clear. If you meet the eligibility criteria, don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your child’s opportunities and give them the chance to explore new skills, activities, and interests.
By claiming this support, you can make a positive impact on your child’s quality of life and help them grow through engaging experiences that could shape their future.