To help families in Victoria manage the rising cost of living, the state government is offering a one-time payment of $400 per child. This initiative, called the School Saving Bonus, is designed to assist parents with school-related expenses for the 2025 school year, including costs for textbooks, uniforms, camps, excursions, and other essential school activities.
With a total allocation of $280 million, this initiative will benefit approximately 700,000 families across the state, providing financial relief as they prepare their children for the upcoming school year.
Key Details of the $400 School Saving Bonus
The $400 payment will be provided automatically to families whose children are enrolled in Victorian government schools. Below are the essential details of this initiative:
- Amount: $400 per child
- Total Fund: $280 million
- Eligibility: Parents or carers of children attending Victorian government schools from Prep to Year 12 (excluding full-fee international students, home-schooled students, and TAFE students).
- Special Criteria: Families with children in non-government schools may qualify if they receive the Camps, Sports, and Excursions Fund (CSEF).
- Payment Method: The bonus will be paid automatically, and families will be notified via email.
- Funds Validity: Vouchers will be valid until June 30, 2025. Any unspent funds will be transferred to the school’s account for future activities.
Who is Eligible for the School Saving Bonus?
The $400 payment is available to parents and carers of students enrolled in Victorian government schools from Prep to Year 12. However, there are some exclusions:
- Not Eligible: Full-fee international students, home-schooled children, and TAFE students.
- Non-Government Schools: Families whose children attend non-government schools may still be eligible if they are receiving the Camps, Sports, and Excursions Fund (CSEF).
How Families Can Use the $400 Payment
The $400 per child can be used for a variety of school-related expenses, providing families with flexibility. The payment can be spent on:
- Uniforms and Textbooks: The bonus can be used for vouchers redeemable at local school-approved suppliers or school-operated second-hand stores.
- School Activities: Funds can be used for school activities such as camps, excursions, and extracurricular programs. Any payments for activities will be credited directly to the school’s account.
Any unused funds at the end of the year will be transferred to the school’s account to support future school activities.
No Application Required for the Bonus
A key benefit of the School Saving Bonus is that families do not need to apply for the payment. The bonus will be distributed automatically to eligible families, and they will receive an email notification detailing how to access the funds. This streamlined process is designed to make it as easy as possible for families facing financial strain.
Relief for Families Facing Rising Costs
The escalating cost of living has become a major concern for many families, particularly when it comes to the costs associated with education. Premier Jacinta Allan emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating that all families deserve access to quality education and the resources necessary to support their children’s learning.
Education Minister Ben Carroll also highlighted the timeliness of the initiative, noting that no parent should have to worry about their child missing out on school supplies or activities due to financial limitations. This measure is part of a broader effort by the government to ease the financial pressures on families and ensure that all children have the tools they need to succeed in their education.
How to Receive the $400 School Saving Bonus
Eligible families can expect an email from the Department of Education with details on how to access their $400 per child. This payment will be automatically processed, allowing families to begin budgeting and preparing for the school year without delay.
For families with multiple school-aged children, the bonus will be multiplied by the number of eligible children. For example, a family with three children will receive a total of $1,200.
