Media Coverage
February 12, 2026; Third Sector
For many Australian families, education is increasingly accompanied by a growing list of hidden costs.
While public schooling is often described as free, new national research shows that essentials such as laptops, uniforms and stationery are placing sustained pressure on household budgets — particularly as broader cost-of-living pressures persist.
A survey of 500 parents of school-aged children found that 37 per cent are worried about affording essential education items this year. Nearly one in three parents (31 per cent) say they are more concerned than last year about meeting these costs, and almost half (48 per cent) report that the ‘hidden costs’ of education are adding to their overall cost-of-living stress.
More than one in three parents (34 per cent) believe education-related expenses are “out of control”.
The Digital Divide and Uniform Fatigue
The days when a pencil case and a notepad were sufficient are long gone. The research shows that digital tools now top the list of parental anxieties, with one in four parents (24%) worried about affording laptops, tablets, or reliable internet access.
Following closely behind is the cost of uniforms, shoes, and clothing (22%), and general school supplies (14%). Even the most basic necessities, such as lunch boxes and drink bottles, are a source of worry for 9% of families.
Susan Wallis, Head of Government and Philanthropy at Good360 Australia, notes that these expenses trigger a ripple effect that goes far beyond the bank balance.
“When parents are worried about affording education essential like clothing, stationery and drink bottles, the impact is felt deeply, causing concern, stress and difficult trade-offs. These pressures are ongoing and often invisible, but they have lasting consequences for children’s confidence and wellbeing,” Ms Wallis said.
Read the full article at Third Sector.
