The contents provided on this page are for informational purposes only and do not constitute financial advice. Consider your personal circumstances and objectives before making any financial decisions.
As the new school year rolls around, it's time to get your kids ready for their next big adventure.
But with the rising cost of living, budgeting for back-to-school expenses in Australia can be a bit of a juggling act. Don't worry, though! We've got some savvy tips to help you navigate back-to-school costs and find those cheap deals on essentials.
Understanding your back to school checklist is important for effective budgeting. Start by creating a detailed list of everything your child needs for the upcoming school year. This includes uniforms, stationery, textbooks, and technology. To avoid unnecessary purchases, cross-reference this list with items you may already have from the previous year.
Quick Tip: Check out the Education Services Australia and Department of Education for online resources support learning and wellbeing from home.
Early planning can save you a bundle. Begin setting aside a small amount each week or month well before the school year commences. This proactive approach can help spread the cost over a more extended period, which could make it more manageable for your budget.
Useful Tool: Beforepay's budgeting tool can assist you in allocating funds for school expenses in a structured way. Give it a try to streamline your financial planning.
If you feel like you have started budgeting for this year's back to school cost a bit late, and your pay cycles are irregular or fortnightly, consider a Beforepay Pay Advance to help you cash out your pay early.
Sales and discounts are your best friends. Keep a keen eye out for back-to-school sales at major retailers like Officeworks and Big W. These stores often feature great deals on stationery and tech gadgets, helping you secure quality items at lower prices.
Don’t Miss: Subscribe to newsletters from your favourite stores to receive early notifications of sales. Additionally, platforms like OzBargain and BargainsOnline can be a valuable resource for finding and sharing the latest deals.
Buying second-hand is both economical and eco-friendly. Explore websites like Gumtree or local Facebook groups for gently used uniforms and textbooks. Not only does this approach save money, but it also contributes to sustainable and responsible consumption.
Community Tip: Check out school notice boards or community centres for swap meets or second-hand sales. Websites like TradingPost and eBayAustralia can connect you with individuals selling second-hand items, offering a diverse marketplace for budget-friendly purchases.
You might be eligible for some help. The Australian Government offers various forms of school-related financial assistance. This can include subsidies for textbooks, uniforms, or even travel. Look out for back to school vouchers!
Check It Out: Visit Services Australia to explore available assistance programs.
Food costs can add up. Planning and preparing home-packed lunches and snacks can be significantly cheaper than buying from the school canteen.
Tech doesn't have to break the bank. If your child needs a device, consider refurbished models. They are often much cheaper and just as good as new ones.
Where to Look: Apple's Refurbished Store or JB Hi-Fi’s pre-owned section are good starting points. For parents with children going into university check out Apple’s student discount for Uni students.
Monitoring your expenses is crucial. Use budgeting apps or a simple spreadsheet to keep track of your back to school spending. This will help you stay on track and make adjustments as needed.
Recommended App: The Beforepay app not only helps with budgeting but also provides cash in advance for when you need fast money for those unexpected school expenses.