Families Struggle to Afford School Needs

A Smith Family survey finds most supported households find children's school costs hard to meet this year.

Updated on Nov. 7, 2026 in Scholarships

Families Struggle to Afford School Needs

Live Poll

Is it harder for your family to afford school supplies than last year?

A survey by The Smith Family found that 53 per cent of the families it supports found it hard or very hard to afford their children's school needs this year. The charity has launched a Christmas appeal aiming to raise $5 million to support children's education.

Why it matters

Rising costs of groceries, rent and petrol are squeezing household budgets, leaving less room for school uniforms, books and devices. Essentials that children need to participate fully in school are becoming harder for struggling families to afford.

A Smith Family survey of supported households found 53 per cent struggle to afford school needs, with 48 per cent blaming rising living costs and one quarter needing more or pricier items this year. The survey does not report whether these shares have changed from earlier years.

The players

The Smith Family

An Australian charity that supports disadvantaged children and families, particularly through education programs.

The details

Families supported by The Smith Family report pressure from uniforms, shoes, books, stationery, excursions and digital devices. The charity's Christmas appeal aims to help 11,904 children and young people access educational support.

This year: families report difficulty affording school needs.
Christmas: The Smith Family runs its appeal to raise funds.

Season Trajectory

The Smith Family's survey of supported households records school-cost strain alongside a broader rise in grocery, rent and petrol prices. Its Christmas appeal shows the charity responding to these pressures each year as families prepare for the school term.

Families facing high school costs may look for charity support and budgeting help before the new school year. Parents can plan ahead for uniforms, books and devices to spread the expense across the year.

The takeaway

Planning school costs early and seeking support from charities such as The Smith Family can ease the financial strain on families. Households facing these costs should not hesitate to ask schools and community organisations about available help.