It’s that time of year again – the school holidays are at the “I’m bored” stage, and parents, while quietly looking forward to their kids returning to school, are also bracing for the cost.
I feel for them, because this annual spend goes well beyond pencils and notebooks these days. When our kids were at school, Libby and I didn’t have to budget for devices – but laptops and tablets for school can now take a big bite out of the family budget.
According to Finder research, in 2026 parents will spend an average of $2,847 a year on sending a primary school child to school and $5,310 on a high schooler. The first hit of back-to-school expenses – stationery, uniforms, and, of course, tech – can cost around $712 for primary-aged kids and $1,166 for secondary students. Multiply that by however many kids you have … and it adds up fast.
The good news? There are ways to soften this financial blow. Here are a few tricks to help with back-to-school costs.
8 ways to save on back-to-school
1. Start with a stationery ‘stocktake’
Before heading to Smiggle, Officeworks, or filling an online cart (tip: don’t attempt this with a stationery-loving child in tow!), take a look at what you already have. Leftover pens, rulers, last year’s pencil case, calculators – they’re often hiding at the bottom of school bags or under bedroom clutter.
Get your kids to gather them all up, and you might be surprised by how much you already have.
2. Save big on tech
A parent at work told me she budgets for a new laptop for her high school kids every two years.
I get it. Tech in the hands of kids who swing their school bags like wrecking balls is risky, so a sturdy laptop or tablet case is essential, and maybe also the replacement warranty ….
When buying tech, ask sales staff about education/student discounts and ex-display models. These are often heavily discounted as they need to refresh stock.
Consider refurbished devices too, which are certified and come with a warranty.
3. Pool with other parents
One of the most overlooked ways to save is pooling with others. Chat with parents in your child’s class or year group about buying in bulk. Stationery, printer ink, art supplies, and even textbooks can be cheaper when purchased in larger amounts.
The same goes for tech. Approaching a salesperson for multiple laptops – say, for your child and two friends – can result in a bigger discount, but you have to ask.
4. Reuse and repair
Uniforms, backpacks, and lunchboxes don’t always need replacing every year. Check if last year’s items are still in decent condition. If not, can they be repaired?
A uniform might just need a new button, shoes, a fresh pair of laces, and pencils can be sharpened. Even devices may only need a battery replacement or servicing rather than a full upgrade.
5. Ask the school what’s actually required
Public schools often request classroom supplies like tissues and whiteboard markers, but these are generally voluntary contributions.
While it’s great to support your school if you can, a few years ago some principals were given a slap on the wrist by the education department for asking parents to supply unreasonable stationery lists.
If anything on your child’s supplies list seems unnecessary or too expensive, don’t hesitate to ask the school what’s actually required.
6. Save on uniforms
Uniforms with the school crest are usually non-negotiable, but cheaper non-branded items like generic school shorts and plain white shirts, can be bought for less elsewhere.
Also, buying a uniform a few sizes up saves money in the long run. It might look big now, but kids grow fast. Don’t forget to check the school’s second-hand rack for pre-worn uniforms which are bargain buys as many are still in good condition.
7. Buy quality where it counts
Not all school supplies are equal. Invest in items that need to go the distance, like durable backpacks and pencil cases, so they’ll last years.
For items which are easily lost though – think drink bottles and snack containers – budget-friendly brands are fine. There’s no point spending a lot on something that will need replacing.
8. Plan to save
Now for some higher-tier financial strategy.
Some Aussie parents plan ahead for back-to-school costs by setting money aside early with various investment strategies.
One option is an education bond – a long-term savings investment for education expenses. Your money grows over time and is taxed at a flat 30 per cent within the bond – so it can be less than your marginal rate. But held for 10 years and used for education purposes, withdrawals can also sometimes be completely tax-free.
Get some financial advice before committing.
A better start to the year
Back-to-school costs are a reality for most families, but with a little thought and creativity, you can keep them under control.
So when the school bell rings and you sigh with relief that the kids are back in class, I hope you’ll also be able to smile, knowing there’s a little extra money in the bank.
