Cost-of-living crisis: Charity calls for help from businesses and the government as the digital divide deepens in Australian schools.
A new study by Good360 Australia sheds light on the growing financial strain on Australian families as the school year commences. The research, which surveyed 500 parents of school-aged children, highlights a concerning trend: almost two in five (39%) struggle to afford essential education items, with digital tools being a significant hurdle.
The cost-of-living crisis is placing immense pressure on households, with nearly 40% of parents (38%) reporting greater concern about affording school supplies compared to previous years. Laptops, reliable internet access, and uniforms/shoes are the top budgetary concerns for families (30%, 29% respectively).
The research exposes a troubling disparity in access to essential digital tools. Only 48% of parents have reliable internet at home for their child’s educational needs, and just 40% have consistent access to a laptop or computer. This lack of access places a significant financial burden on families, with 43% reporting that digital tools are a major strain. Notably, parents of upper secondary students (16–18 years old) feel the financial weight of digital tools is more acute (50%).
For many families, affording school essentials necessitates sacrificing other necessities. Over 20% of families reported having to forgo other essentials, and a concerning 12% have resorted to credit cards or loans to cover these costs.
Alison Covington, Founder and Managing Director of Good360 Australia, emphasised the ongoing financial strain on families, particularly regarding essential school supplies.
“As the cost-of-living crisis persists, our research shows parents are making tough choices to support their children’s learning,” Ms Covington said. “No one should be forced to choose between essentials for their child’s education and basic family necessities like food and clothing.”
The financial struggles extend beyond household budgets.
- 16% of parents reported that difficulty affording school supplies has caused stress or worry at home.
- 10% of parents say their child’s participation in education has been negatively affected.
- 9% of parents noted that their child’s well-being, including confidence, social interaction, and self-esteem, has suffered.
Good360 Australia, a charity connecting unused consumer goods with disadvantaged schools and charities, is actively addressing the growing digital divide.
“The demand for essential digital tools like laptops and reliable internet access is surging as the cost-of-living crisis continues to impact Australian households,” Ms Covington said. “Governments and businesses must step up through funding, donations or partnerships to ensure families can access the resources their children need for education.”
Since 2023, Good360 has received requests for more than 19,000 laptops and digital items to support charities and disadvantaged schools. The demand has grown significantly this year, rising by 43% compared to last year. Ms Covington expressed gratitude for the support of over 30 product and financial donors but stressed the urgent need for additional support to meet the growing demand.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the support Good360 has received so far,” Ms Covington said. “In 2024 alone, we connected over $1 million worth of digital devices to communities in need, but we need to double the number of donors to address the growing need in our community. By redirecting surplus devices, we can bridge the digital divide while also reducing waste. Businesses and retailers have a huge opportunity to support students’ education, bridge education inequality and improve sustainability.”
If your organisation refreshes devices as part of its IT lifecycle, you can play a vital role in bridging the digital divide. Contact Good360 Australia at corporatepartnerships@good360.org.au to learn more.
Also read: The Smith Family’s Back to School Appeal helps children in need
Milton writes as both an occupation and a hazard. He also works on the newsletters you see on Tuesday and Thursday with articles you should find interesting.
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