Early Back-to-School Cash Boost for Parents

The government has announced the early disbursement of the Back-to-School Support payments for the 2025 school year, having been successfully processed and paid ahead of the originally scheduled date of January 15. This proactive measure provides families with an additional two and a half weeks to prepare for the upcoming school year, which officially begins on January 27, 2025.

A total of 208,673 applications were received for this initiative, with 200,176 successful ones processed, resulting in a combined payout of $40.4 million. However, 8,313 applications remain on hold pending Year-12 exam results, which are necessary for students to enroll in Year-13.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, stated that eligible families will receive $200 per child. This amount is intended to alleviate financial burdens associated with essential school-related expenses such as uniforms, shoes, school bags, and stationery. Parents can access these funds through various digital platforms like MPAiSA and MyCASH, or collect them at Post Fiji outlets. For families in maritime regions, the funds can be collected at local Post Fiji agencies by presenting the child’s student ID as proof.

This support initiative is a critical part of the Coalition Government’s broader efforts to assist families, particularly those with household incomes under $50,000. Historically, the Back-to-School Support program has benefitted around 200,000 students each year, representing a total investment of approximately $130 million in educational assistance since its inception.

The early disbursement not only eases the financial pressure parents face as they prepare their children for school but also underscores the government’s commitment to fostering educational readiness and accessibility. This initiative is a hopeful sign for families, ensuring that children start their new academic year well-equipped and filled with opportunities.

The Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Education have expressed their gratitude to all involved in the application process, acknowledging the vital role that community collaboration plays in enhancing educational success. This timely support serves to pave the way for a promising new school year for both students and their families.