Back To School Bites Budget Under Labor

NSW Nationals

New inflation data confirms what parents already know – the cost of sending kids back to school is out of control under Labor.

From school supplies and uniforms to lunchbox staples and after-school snacks, families are being hit with shocking double-digit price hikes.

Federal Nationals Member for Page Kevin Hogan said families are struggling to keep up, with many forced to cut back on essential expenses just to make ends meet.

"Parents are telling me they will need to cut out sport, dance classes, and excursions just so they can afford the basics," Mr Hogan said.

"But it's not just extracurricular activities that families are struggling with; it's the everyday essentials like a healthy breakfast and lunchbox."

With the cost of packing a school lunch up by more than 20% in some cases, food charities are reporting record levels of demand from hardworking Australian families.

"The fact that parents in a country like Australia are turning to food charities just to ensure their kids have breakfast is simply not good enough."

"Labor has no plan to fix this historic collapse in Australians' living standards. Families cannot afford another three years of Labor."

This year, families will be forced to pay an average of $2,761 per primary school student and $5,043 per secondary student – putting enormous strain on household budgets.

Key price increases under Labor (March 2022 - December 2024):

Back to School Essentials:

  • Education: +12%
  • Sports participation: +17%
  • Stationery: +16%
  • Technology: +17%
  • Kids' clothing: +9%
  • Haircuts: +18%

Healthy Breakfast Costs:

  • Cereal: +21%
  • Milk: +18%
  • Bread: +25%
  • Spreads: +12%
  • Eggs: +36%
  • Juice: +15%

Healthy Lunchbox Costs:

  • Drinks (water, juice, soft drinks): +15%
  • Fruit: +16%
  • Cheese: +20%
  • Ham (pork): +10%
  • Chicken (poultry): +12%
  • Cakes & biscuits: +22%

Mr Hogan said only a Nationals Government will fight cost-of-living pressures, build a stronger economy, and get Australia back on track.

"Labor's failure to manage inflation means every trip to the supermarket, every school fee invoice, and every extracurricular activity comes with more pain for families," he said.

"The Nationals understand that parents are stretched to their limit. We are committed to delivering real relief for Australian families."

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