Secondary Assistance Scheme increase for 2024 and 2025

On 1 July, the State Government announced the Secondary Assistance Scheme (SAS) clothing allowance will increase from $115 to $300 for 2024 and 2025.

The SAS is available to low-income families with children enrolled in secondary schooling to assist with school expenses. 

What do parents, guardians and independent students need to do to receive the $185 top-up payment in 2024?

Nothing. The Department of Education will process top-up payments for all eligible applicants who have previously received a $115 clothing allowance payment in 2024. More details will be communicated to schools and parents in Term 3, 2024.

What is the eligibility for claiming the allowance?

The SAS is available to parents, guardians or independent students holding an appropriate Services Australia (Centrelink) Health Care or Concession Card, or a Department of Veterans’ Affairs Pensioner Concession Card that is valid at the time of application and some time within Term 1 each year.

There are no changes to the scheme eligibility. Find more information in the Student Allowances Guidelines 2024 and on the Secondary Assistance Scheme page.

Will people who received the Abstudy Supplement Allowance also receive the $300 uniform allowance?

Yes, as part of the transition to remove the Abstudy Supplement Allowance (ASA) from 2025, parents who received the ASA in 2024 will receive the $300 uniform allowance in 2024 and be eligible to apply for the full SAS in 2025.

Is it too late to apply for the allowance in 2024?

Yes. Applications for the 2024 Secondary Assistance Scheme closed at the end of Term 1 2024.

Applications for the 2025 Secondary Assistance Scheme will open in Term 1, 2025.

If parents, guardians and independent students become eligible during 2024 (after the Term 1 deadline) can they apply?

No. There are no changes to the scheme eligibility, as detailed in the annual guidelines.

What can parents, guardians and independent students buy with the allowance?

The allowance assists with the cost of essential personal items related to secondary schooling, such as school uniforms, shoes, books, stationery and lunches. There is no requirement for parents to keep records or receipts of how the funds are spent.

Will parents, guardians and independent students need to re-apply for the allowance in 2025 and, if so, when can they apply?

Yes. Applications for the Secondary Assistance Scheme 2025 will open from the commencement of Term 1 2025 and coordinated by schools. More information will be provided to schools in Term 4, 2024.

When will the allowance of $300 be paid in 2025?

The allowances will be paid upon the receipt and verification of valid application forms from schools in Term 1 2025, as per the normal timelines.