The Smith Family’s 2026 Back to School Appeal launched

AS families across the Hunter prepare for the return to school, new research has revealed the growing pressure many households face simply trying to meet the basic costs of education.

The latest Pulse Survey of families supported by The Smith Family shows that more than four out of five parents and carers are worried about being able to afford everything their children need for the new school year.

The findings highlight how cost-of-living pressures are intensifying challenges for families already experiencing disadvantage, placing children at greater risk of falling behind or disengaging from their learning.

When asked about specific items their children may miss out on, 56 per cent of surveyed said digital devices, while 40 per cent identified essentials such as shoes and school uniforms.

Other concerns included missing out on educational activities outside school, excursions, basic school supplies and even reliable internet access for schoolwork.

The Chief Executive Officer of The Smith Family, Doug Taylor, said the absence of basic school items can have far-reaching consequences for students.

“From the moment students step through the school gate on their first day, not having the correct shoes or uniform can make them feel different and severely impact their confidence,” Mr Taylor said.

“Meanwhile, lack of access to items such as digital devices – which are now essential, particularly for high school – often leaves students unable to fully participate in their education today and locks them out of the workforce tomorrow.”

The survey comes as The Smith Family launches its 2026 Back to School Appeal, which aims to secure more than 3500 new sponsors to help children access its flagship Learning for Life scholarship program.

The appeal seeks to ensure students have the practical, educational and personal support needed to remain engaged from primary school through to further study.

“It’s a sad fact that in Australia today, 1 in 6 children are growing up experiencing the effects of poverty, which as we know has a negative impact on their ability to make the most of their education,” Mr Taylor said.

“Research tells us that by Year 9 a student who experiences disadvantage can be 4 to 5 years behind their peers in literacy and numeracy.”

Mr Taylor said the start of the school year is a critical moment to help children succeed.

“The start of the school year is a pivotal time to set children up with the tools they need to make the most of their education.

“We’re calling on those generous Australians who can, to give a child in need the support to reach their full potential and create a better future for themselves,” he said.

A key focus of The Smith Family’s long-term support is digital inclusion.

While more than 14 thousand laptops have been distributed to families over the past seven years, 44 per cent of students supported by the charity are still not digitally included.

This means they do not have access to a laptop or tablet in a household with mobile or broadband internet.

The importance of digital access is underscored by separate survey data showing that 93 per cent of parents reported the digital support their children received helped with schooling outcomes.

The Learning for Life program provides children referred through nearly 800 partner schools with sustained support across their educational journey.

Sponsorship covers education essentials such as uniforms, shoes, books, laptops and supplies, as well as tailored personal support from a dedicated Smith Family team member and access to additional learning and mentoring programs.

All 1109 respondents to the Pulse Survey were parents or carers of children currently supported by The Smith Family.

The full Pulse Survey results are available online, and Australians interested in donating or sponsoring a child can find more information at thesmithfamily.com.au/sponsor-a-child.