Eligible families in the ACT now able to apply for one off payment for education costs 

A one off payment is now available for eligible families in the Australian Capital Territory, designed to help cover 2025 education expenses. 

Payments for the 2025 school year are:

• $400 for preschool students
• $500 for primary school students
• $750 for high school and college students

Available via the  ACT Government’s Future of Education Equity Fund, the payment supports families in accessing education essentials like book packs, uniforms, excursions, sports equipment and activities, tuition, and music lessons, ensuring they have the resources needed to engage fully in their education and wellbeing.

The Equity Fund supports students from preschool through Year 12 in all ACT schools. In 2024, the Fund provided more than $3.3 million to more than 5,700 students from financially disadvantaged families. 

“By opening the Future of Education Equity Fund applications earlier, we are helping families to manage back-to-school costs and ensure their children can start the year with the items they need,” Minister for Education and Early Childhood Yvette Berry said.

“This move supports families by addressing cost-of-living pressures before the new school year begins.

“We are committed to ensuring that every child in Canberra can fully engage with their education, no matter their background. This Fund eases financial pressures on families, so young people don’t miss out on school experiences like excursions, sports activities, and music lessons.”

Applications for the 2025 Equity Fund will also allow families to apply for all eligible students in their family in the one application, regardless of whether they attend different schools.

Payments will be made as early as 6 January 2025 for completed applications. Applications for the 2025 Equity Fund will remain open until the end of November 2025.

For more information about the Equity Fund, or to apply online, see here.