As Canberra families prepare for the 2026 school year, the financial burden of education is weighing heavily, with essential technology now a major cost driver. For local mother Alison, ensuring her children have the necessary books, stationery, and digital tools is a pressing challenge.
The Rising Cost of Being School-Ready
Alison's son is entering Year Five, requiring a larger and more expensive book pack. Meanwhile, her daughter is starting high school, a transition Alison describes as a "whole different dynamic" with its own set of financial demands. Beyond textbooks, costs include items like a computer mouse and funds for school carnivals and events throughout the year.
Alison is one of many parents supported by The Smith Family, a national charity that assists with education costs. In the ACT alone, the organisation supports 2100 students across 40 partner schools. Its CEO, Doug Taylor, emphasises that access to digital devices and home internet is now fundamental to full participation in education. He warns that a lack of access can lock students out of future workforce opportunities.
The Digital Divide in the Nation's Capital
National data from the charity reveals a stark picture: over half of the families it supports worry about affording digital devices for schoolwork, and a further 20 per cent are concerned about paying for a home internet connection. This comes despite 2022 national assessment data finding 56 per cent of ACT Year 10 students were proficient in information technology.
For families, these digital expenses add to the strain of rising everyday costs like rent, groceries, and utilities. "Investing in a student today will have benefits for generations to come," Mr Taylor stated. "The right support at the right time gives students experiencing disadvantage the opportunity to make the most of their education."
Government and Community Support Mechanisms
Alison attests to the value of this support, noting the benefits for both learning and social connection. "It's definitely beneficial for their learning and even the social aspect of keeping in contact outside of school has been great," she said.
The ACT Government offers additional relief through its Education Equity Fund. This initiative provides a one-off payment to low-income families for expenses including books, uniforms, excursions, and music lessons. In 2025, more than 6200 students accessed the fund, with applications for 2026 open until November.
Furthermore, the ACT Education Directorate provides Chromebooks to high school and college students, while primary schools aim for a ratio of one device for every three students. A spokesperson confirmed the government can also arrange free wi-fi access for eligible families without home internet.
As back-to-school pressures mount, the intersection of affordability and digital access remains a critical issue for ensuring all Canberra students can engage equally in their education.
