- Published:
- Monday 11 May 2015
Children from disadvantaged families will get a brighter and healthier start to the school day thanks to a $13.7 million breakfast program in the 2015-16 Victorian Budget.
The Andrews Labor Government’s Breakfast Clubs program will feed up to 25,000 kids in 500 of Victoria’s most disadvantaged government primary schools.
Premier Daniel Andrews and Minister for Education, James Merlino, toured Richmond West Primary School this morning to launch the new program.
One in seven children arrive at school with an empty stomach. Without breakfast, growing kids struggle to pay attention throughout the day, affecting their ability to learn and do their best.
The Labor Government is tackling disadvantage and making sure every student, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to reach their potential.
Breakfast clubs will help improve student learning and attendance while also building connections between families, schools and their local communities.
The 500 breakfast clubs will be up and running from the first day of the 2016 school year.
The Labor Government will partner with Foodbank – the largest welfare food agency in Australia – to establish and lead the state-wide program, using their existing warehousing, storage and freight network.
In making Victoria the Education State the Government is ensuring every child, regardless of their postcode, has access to a first-rate education.
Quotes attributable to Premier, Daniel Andrews
“Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, it helps you concentrate, learn and be your best.”
“Kids from struggling families shouldn’t be put at a disadvantage. We’re making sure they start the school day on a full stomach, allowing them to do their best.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Education, James Merlino
“Going to school on an empty stomach really affects a child’s ability to concentrate and learn.”
“This is the biggest education Budget ever, because Victorian students deserve nothing less.”