By Steff WillisFriday 24 Jan 2025Station NewsReading Time: 2 minutes
New research from Finder highlights the staggering expenses families face in returning to school, with supplies alone expected to cost $3.7 billion nationwide this year.
On average, parents will spend $694 on primary school students and $1,149 on secondary students for textbooks, stationery, uniforms, and devices. When additional expenses such as tuition fees, technology, camps, and transportation are factored in, the yearly cost jumps to $2,671 per primary school child and $5,043 for secondary students.
In response to these challenges, we’ve launched a special edition of our long-running SOS program on the Brissy Brekky show that’s been bringing hope to people across Brisbane for over a decade.
This year’s Back to School SOS was designed specifically to help families who are facing significant challenges along with navigating the mounting costs associated with the start of the school year.
Bek thinks she’s nothing special, but we disagree. Along with dealing with her husband’s cancer diagnosis and other health battles, she’s also looking after 5 foster children with high needs.
“It’s very challenging but you just take each day as it comes. You’ve got no idea how much this will help, I really appreciate it” Bek, Back to School SOS recipient
It’s our privilege to come alongside Bek and others who need a little love and support. Listen to their stories below.
We would like to thank our anonymous donor who provided these $250 Back to School vouchers for each recipient. As a listener funded station, we couldn’t do this without your support!
If you would like to support our SOS program or you know of someone who could do with a dose of love and support, nominate them now!