Christmas has come early for parents in the Hunter, with the Premier’s $150 Back to School vouchers ready for collection. 

Families can apply for the coupons to help with the costs of getting children and young people ready for Term 1, 2023. 

School bags, shoes, uniforms, and textbooks are some of the items that can be paid for using the vouchers, a gift from Premier Dominic Perrottet and his government. 

“The NSW Government wants to make sure every child attending school has the opportunity to strive for their best when they are in the classroom and providing access to essential items for learning is our priority,” he said. 

“Parents, guardians and carers, including foster carers, can apply for three $50 Premier’s Back to School NSW Vouchers per child, which can be used at registered businesses towards items including bags, shoes, prescribed textbooks and lunchboxes. 

“The end of year is an expensive time for many households with Christmas and family holidays to pay for which is why the NSW Government is investing $193 million into the vouchers to help ease those cost of living pressures.” 

The news of the vouchers was delivered to every NSW school-aged child via their school communications.

In the letter, that appeared personally signed by the Premier, Mr Perrottet thanked students for their efforts during what had been a tough few years.

“It has been fantastic to see so many students back in the classroom and thriving in 2022 after so many disruptions, and 2023 is shaping up to be an even bigger year for education in NSW.
“We’re rolling out a new, back-to-basics curriculum; making changes so students are even better prepared for employment and further education; doing more to recognise and reward our best
teachers; and making it easier for parents to connect with your children’s education.
“Thank you again for all your efforts this year. I wish you and your family a safe and happy summer.”

Applying for the vouchers can be done using the Service NSW app, on the phone or by visiting a Service Centre. 

Many businesses have already joined the program, Treasurer Matt Kean added.

“From small uniform shops to larger stationery retailers, the pick-up from business has been strong already with more than 500 across the State registered to accept the vouchers and more expected in the coming months,” he said. 

“Not only are the Back to School NSW Vouchers a big help for families in getting kids equipped with what they need, they’ll provide a real shot in the arm for businesses across the state too.” 

The Premier’s Back to School NSW program is one 70 government rebates and vouchers available through the Savings Finder program. 

For more information about the vouchers visit www.service.nsw.gov.au/back-to-school-vouchers, call Service NSW on 13 77 88 or visit your local Service NSW Service Centre. 

Customers can search for registered businesses at www.vouchers.service.nsw.gov.au/vouchers/providers-search/ 

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