Queensland Launches $100 'Back to School Boost' Scheme for Primary Students
The Queensland state government has introduced the "Back to School Boost" scheme, an initiative providing $100 to parents of every primary school student from prep to year six. This annual credit aims to assist families with essential school-related costs.
The $100 credit is specifically intended for items such as uniforms, books, stationery, and school excursions, directly supporting students' educational needs.
Scheme Administration
For state school students, the $100 credit will be automatically applied to their individual school accounts. Non-state schools, including Catholic and independent institutions, are responsible for administering this credit to their eligible students.
It is important to note that the funds are not issued as vouchers or direct cash payments. Instead, they are applied directly to reduce charges levied by schools on parents and guardians. The credit cannot be used to reimburse purchases made from external or third-party suppliers.
Eligibility and Rules
The scheme operates with specific eligibility criteria and rules to ensure fair distribution:
- Each eligible student is entitled to one $100 credit per year, irrespective of any school changes within that academic year.
- Parents or guardians have the option to request a refund for any unspent funds when a student leaves the school or graduates at the end of year six.
- Any unspent funds remaining on a student's account will automatically carry over to the subsequent year, provided the child remains enrolled at the same school.
- Students attending special schools are eligible for the boost. Home-educated children are also eligible but must apply directly to the Department of Education to receive their credit.
- Families living interstate whose children attend a Queensland school are eligible. Conversely, families residing in Queensland whose children attend an interstate school are not eligible.
- For students enrolling late in the academic year, the credit amount is proportionally reduced: $75 for term two, $50 for term three, and $25 for term four.
Political Commentary
The scheme has drawn contrasting views from political leaders.
Premier David Crisafulli described the initiative as:
"small in quantum" but significant in "forming a connection," emphasizing its focus on acknowledging parents' sacrifices.
In response, Opposition leader Steven Miles criticized the initiative as a:
"token amount," suggesting $100 is insufficient, for example, for school shoes, and indicating a lack of understanding regarding family financial pressures.