Australian Families Struggle with Rising Living Costs as Essentials Like School Shoes Become Harder to Afford
New research finds nearly half of lower-income parents worry about paying for back-to-school basics amid broader cost-of-living pressures
A worsening cost-of-living crisis in Australia is placing significant strain on low-income families across the country, with almost half of parents reporting anxiety about affording basic school necessities such as shoes and uniforms.
Recent survey findings highlight that this financial pressure is part of a broader pattern of rising household costs that are affecting food, housing and education expenses, particularly for families already experiencing disadvantage.
The Smith Family, an independent Australian charity focused on reducing educational inequality, released its annual survey showing that nine in ten lower-income parents and carers are concerned they will struggle to meet back-to-school costs as inflation continues to affect everyday living.
The data indicate that cost pressures are not limited to school shoes but extend to uniforms, digital devices, internet access and extracurricular activities, leaving many households to make difficult budgetary choices at the start of the school year.
Respondents reported that rising prices for essential items and services — in combination with stagnant income growth — have exacerbated hardship, forcing some families to prioritise basic needs over educational participation.
Digital inclusion remains a significant issue, with a substantial proportion of students lacking reliable access to laptops and home internet, which are increasingly central to modern education.
The study also draws attention to psychological stress and reduced participation in activities that support learning and wellbeing outside the classroom.
Charity leaders point out that without targeted measures to support low-income households and close the digital divide, educational disparities risk deepening, with potential long-term consequences for children’s learning outcomes and future opportunities.
The call for expanded assistance comes as broader economic indicators show that many Australian families continue to struggle with rising living costs, including housing, food and essential services, amplifying the financial burden faced by lower-income households.
Recent survey findings highlight that this financial pressure is part of a broader pattern of rising household costs that are affecting food, housing and education expenses, particularly for families already experiencing disadvantage.
The Smith Family, an independent Australian charity focused on reducing educational inequality, released its annual survey showing that nine in ten lower-income parents and carers are concerned they will struggle to meet back-to-school costs as inflation continues to affect everyday living.
The data indicate that cost pressures are not limited to school shoes but extend to uniforms, digital devices, internet access and extracurricular activities, leaving many households to make difficult budgetary choices at the start of the school year.
Respondents reported that rising prices for essential items and services — in combination with stagnant income growth — have exacerbated hardship, forcing some families to prioritise basic needs over educational participation.
Digital inclusion remains a significant issue, with a substantial proportion of students lacking reliable access to laptops and home internet, which are increasingly central to modern education.
The study also draws attention to psychological stress and reduced participation in activities that support learning and wellbeing outside the classroom.
Charity leaders point out that without targeted measures to support low-income households and close the digital divide, educational disparities risk deepening, with potential long-term consequences for children’s learning outcomes and future opportunities.
The call for expanded assistance comes as broader economic indicators show that many Australian families continue to struggle with rising living costs, including housing, food and essential services, amplifying the financial burden faced by lower-income households.
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