Cutting Uniform Costs For Government Schools

A plan to change the government uniform policy to drive down costs for families across the state is underway, thanks to the Allan Labor Government.

Minister for Education Ben Carroll today announced that the Labor Government is consulting on ways the statewide school uniform policy can keep uniforms affordable for families – in addition to existing supports like the Affordable School Uniform Program and the School Saving Bonus.

The consultation process will speak to stakeholders like schools, parents, students, principal peak bodies and social and community sector organisations – making sure efforts to reduce costs considers the needs and various perspectives of different school communities.

The consultation process is key to understanding the scale and nature of the issue around uniform affordability and finding the right solution. Following consultation, the Student Dress Code Policy will be updated, and schools will look at their current uniform arrangements and make changes as needed.

This is yet another move to help to tackle cost-of-living pressures following the Labor Government’s School Saving Bonus as part of the Victorian Budget 2024/25, which provides $400 in support for every child at government schools, and eligible concession card holders at non-government schools.

Delivered through schools, the boost will help up to 700,000 students with uniforms, camps, excursions and sporting events at school – to make sure no child misses out on school activities due to financial stress.

The once-off Bonus will be applied for each child but can be spent per family. For instance, a family with three school children will receive $1,200 in support to spend on school costs.

The Labor Government has previously allocated $70.3 million to State Schools Relief to support families with the cost of uniforms through the Affordable School Uniform Program which has supported more than 23,000 government school students in 2024.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Ben Carroll

“We understand how school costs can add up, and the cost of living is rising - that’s why we’re moving ahead with a plan to minimise the amount families have to spend on uniforms each year.”

“Every student deserves access to a great education and that’s why we’re ensuring all students can continue to fully participate in schooling, despite the cost-of-living pressures that we know many families are experiencing.”

“We’re proud to deliver the School Saving Bonus – which builds on our record support to make sure kids have every opportunity to participate and shine at school.”