From today, eligible ACT families can apply to access a one-off payment to help cover 2026 education expenses through the ACT Government's Future of Education Equity Fund. The Equity Fund supports students from preschool through year 12 in all ACT schools.
The Equity Fund supports families with low incomes in accessing education essentials such as book packs, uniforms, excursions, sports equipment and activities, tuition and music lessons, so that students have the resources needed to engage fully in their education and wellbeing.
Minister for Education and Early Childhood, Yvette Berry, said the Equity Fund is about supporting Canberra students to have equal opportunities to participate fully in their schooling.
"The Future of Education Equity Fund helps families to manage back-to-school costs so that their children can start the year with the items they need," Minister Berry said.
"Opening applications from 1 December 2025 supports families to address cost-of-living pressures before the 2026 school year begins.
"We are committed to supporting every child in Canberra to fully engage with their education, no matter their background. This Fund eases financial pressures on families, so students don't miss out on school experiences such as excursions, sports activities, and music lessons."
In 2025, the Fund has provided more than $3.7 million to more than 6,200 students and in 2024 provided more than $3.4 million to more than 5,800 students.
Families can apply for all eligible students in the one application, regardless of whether they attend different schools. Payments from the 2026 Equity Fund will be made from December 2025 for eligible completed applications.
Payments for the 2026 school year are:
- $400 for preschool students
- $500 for primary school students
- $750 for high school and college students.
Applications for the 2026 Equity Fund will remain open until the end of November 2026.
