Help with back to school costs

The start of the year can be a difficult time financially, especially if you have children going back to school. If you're struggling, we may be able to help.

Uniforms and stationery

If you need help with stationery or uniforms, you can ask Work and Income for help. You will need to pay this money back to us. You can read more about this on our page:

If you are a current client, you may be able to apply using MyMSD. MyMSD will tell you what information we need and if you need to talk with us.

Go to My MSD login

Caring for someone else's child

If you’re caring for someone else’s child, and you're getting Unsupported Child's Benefit or Orphan's Benefit, you can get the School and Year Start-up Payment. For 2023, applications are open from 16 January to 28 February. You don’t need to pay this back:

Childcare assistance

If you need help with childcare costs, such as before or after school care, we may be able to help you.

If you already get childcare payments for your child:

If you get an OSCAR Subsidy and want it to continue in the new school term, you’ll need to let us know.

Other support in your community

There may be other supports available in your local community. You can check what’s available by searching through the Family Services Directory. Some groups may be able to help with school items or costs for example. Other services include financial planning, childcare and finding a local food bank.