Media Release | 26 June 2025
Liam Staltari
Shadow Minister for Education;
Early Childhood; Disability Services; Heritages
The WA Opposition continues to uncover the Cook Labor Government’s axing of cost-of- living relief measures for families that are already struggling.
Shadow Education Minister Liam Staltari said the State Budget reveals a 62 per cent cut to the Secondary Assistance Scheme’s (SAS) clothing allowance subsidy.
The SAS provides financial support to eligible low-income families to help cover the cost of schooling for government, non-government and home-schooled students from years 7 to 12.
The scheme includes $235 for education programs and a $300 clothing allowance paid to parents needing support for education essentials.
Mr Staltari said from next year, the total support will drop from $535 to just $350.
“Having campaigned on cost-of-living relief, this mean-spirited Government is cutting $185 from the clothing allowance,” Mr Staltari said.
“Appropriate clothing is key for kids heading to school, so they feel part of the education system, fit in and are ready to learn.
“Their budget even acknowledges that more families than ever need this support, with the number of those applying for the scheme estimated to increase by 500 in 2025-26.
“By cutting this essential allowance the Cook Labor Government hopes to save $6.7 million.
“They can find $220 million for a racetrack in Burswood that nobody wants but they won’t help vulnerable kids get the clothing they need to go to school.”
“Families will be reeling with this next round of cuts to education support, which comes on top of cuts to venue entry for VacSwim and the reduction of KidSport vouchers.
“They should be sharing the benefits of prosperity with the most vulnerable in our community – those who are simply doing their best to give their kids with education essentials.”
ENDS
Note: relevant budget pages included below
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