Over a third of parents across Australia are concerned they can’t afford school essentials for their kids this year compared to other years, with 29 per cent saying they may not be able to afford school uniforms or shoes.
The new research was conducted by leading charity Good360 Australia of 500 parents of school-aged children.
Digital tools such as laptops and reliable internet access are the most significant affordability issue for families (30 per cent), followed closely by uniforms and school shoes, and the cost of books, stationery and backpacks at 21 per cent.
Access to digital tools comes out on top, with 43 percent of families reporting that digital tools have become a major burden, and parents of Upper Secondary students (16–18 years old) more likely to be burdened by the increasing cost of these digital tools (50 per cent).
For many, these challenges mean sacrificing other essential household items, with more than 1 in 5 families (22 per cent) reporting they have had to forgo other necessities to cover education essentials. Nearly 1 in 8 parents (12 per cent) have turned to credit cards or loans to pay for essential education items.
“Nobody should be forced to choose between essentials for their child’s education and basic family necessities such as food and clothing,” Good360 Australia founder and managing director Alison Covington AM.
The impact of these financial struggles extends beyond the household budget, with 16 per cent of parents reporting that difficulty affording school supplies has caused stress or worry at home.
One in 10 parents say their child’s participation in education - such as attending activities or completing homework - has been negatively affected. Additionally, 9 per cent of parents note that their child’s wellbeing, including confidence, social interaction, and self-esteem, has suffered.
In the digital space, Good360 reported it is taking action to address the growing digital divide in Australia. Since 2023, Good360 has received requests for more than 19,000 laptops and digital items to support charities and disadvantaged schools. Demand has significantly increased this financial year, rising 43 per cent compared to last year.
Covington praised the support of over 30 product and financial donors contributing to Good360’s Digital Divide program but emphasised the urgent need for additional support and partners to meet the growing demand.
"We’re incredibly grateful for the support Good360 has received so far. In 2024 alone, we connected over $1 million worth of digital devices to communities in need, but we need to double the number of donors to address the growing need in our community,” Covington said.
“By redirecting surplus devices, we can help bridge the digital divide while also reducing waste. Businesses and retailers have a huge opportunity to support students' education, bridge education inequality and improve sustainability.”