The Queensland Government will increase its Back to School Boost payment by 50 per cent to $150 for every Queensland primary school student from January 2027, following the announcement in the 2026–27 State Budget.
The increase comes as Queensland schools begin Term 3, with the Government reporting that more than $19 million in Back to School Boost funding has already been redeemed by families this year.
Parents and carers have used the annual credit to help cover school-related expenses including uniforms, stationery, excursions, extra-curricular activities and swimming lessons.
The Back to School Boost is available to students attending state schools, non-government schools and home education, with credits able to be used at any time during the school year and carried forward for future years.
Queensland Minister for Education and the Arts John-Paul Langbroek said uptake of the program had continued as schools returned for Term 3.
“Parents at Manly State School have used 68 per cent of their Back to School Boost funding so far this year, putting thousands of dollars back in the pockets of parents in this Bayside community,” he said.
“By increasing the payment to $150 next year, it will help families for years to come.”
For schools, the continued uptake of the program is intended to support student participation by helping families meet the costs of essential school items and approved school activities.
The Government said the increased funding forms part of a broader package of education initiatives announced in the 2026–27 Budget, including investment in new schools, classroom safety measures and efforts to reduce administrative burden on schools.