Back to school help requests reach new high during cost-of-living pinch

Queensland families struggling with the rising cost of living have an uphill battle ahead for 2024, with Vinnies Queensland revealing it’s received a record number of requests for support for back-to-school supplies.

The state charity’s Children’s Education Fund, which provides school supplies and essentials to families in financial difficulty, saw more than 2,220 applications for the 2024 school year.

This is the highest number of applications received since the Fund started in 1988, and more than 25 per cent higher than last year’s record.

In Brisbane alone, Vinnies received nearly 700 applications for help with school supplies, up by 14 per cent from last year.

Mother-of-three Jacqueline* said times have gotten tougher and affording even basic uniforms had become a struggle.

“Before support from Vinnies and the fund, my children were wearing second-hand uniforms full of holes. They were extremely embarrassed turning up to school,” she said.

“I know things have to improve one day, but it feels like it’s getting harder and harder, and it’s not just me – it seems like everyone is really struggling right now.”

A recent study from Officeworks found school supplies in 2024 will cost Queensland parents on average up to $1100 per child..

Vinnies Queensland CEO Kevin Mercer said the charity had seen a 15 per cent average increase in requests for help across the state in 2023 and expected that number to continue to grow in 2024.

“Queensland families are facing another year of financial struggles – with many not even able to afford a roof over their head and food on the dinner table each night,” he said.

“While we are encouraged by new social and affordable homes being developed, we expect the cost-of-living crisis to continue to be a big issue this year.

“Until it’s resolved, it’s the most vulnerable in our communities who will suffer the most.”