Media Release – 20 May 2025
Parents welcome cost-of-living initiatives
Parents Victoria, which represents parents in Victorian government schools, has welcomed State Budget announcements of cost-of-living supports that will help parents. Specifically, we welcome:
- The increase in the Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund (CSEF) payment to eligible students, to $400 each for primary and secondary.
- The announcement of free public transport for under-18s. Public transport costs are a major expense for some families, this initiative is a positive investment in the future, not only for children at school but also those in post-school training, apprenticeships and part-time employment.
- The allocation of over 65,000 Get Active Kids vouchers for concession card holders. This will enable more children to participate in organised sport – another plus for children’s health and wellbeing.
- The announcement of dedicated pathway coordinators at government high schools.
- Free advanced maths camps for children who are interested in maths.
Parents Victoria CEO Gail McHardy said, “These initiatives are much needed in the community. We know that VCOSS and West Justice have campaigned long and hard for these measures, and many others, with full support from Parents Victoria.
“PV is still seeking dedicated family engagement staff for schools to establish and strengthen family-school relationships. There is still opportunity for the current Victorian Government to act before the 2026 State Election.
“More could be done for state schools and staff but on today’s announcements, the State Government has listened and taken action on some called-for items”.
