New research[1] into the digital divide and cost-of-living crisis highlights the growing financial strain on Australian families as the new school year gets underway.
The research, conducted by leading charity Good360 Australia surveyed 500 parents of school-aged children and revealed that 39 per cent of parents are struggling to afford essential education items, with access to digital tools a critical challenge.
Financial pressure on households is an escalating concern, with nearly 2 in 5 parents (38 per cent) saying they are more concerned this year about affording school essentials than in previous years. Digital tools such as laptops and reliable internet access are the most significant affordability issue for families (30 per cent), followed closely by uniforms and school shoes (29 per cent), and the cost of books, stationery and backpacks (21 per cent).
The research highlights a concerning divide in access to essential digital tools for education. Only 48 per cent of parents report having reliable internet access at home for their child’s educational needs, while just 40 per cent of children have regular access to a laptop or computer for schoolwork.
The cost of these items has placed a significant financial strain on households, with 43 per cent of families reporting that digital tools have become a major burden; and parents of Upper Secondary students (16–18 years old) more likely to be burdened by the increasing cost of these digital tools (50 per cent).
For many, these challenges mean sacrificing other essential household items, with more than 1 in 5 families (22 per cent) reporting they have had to forgo other necessities to cover education essentials. Alarmingly, nearly 1 in 8 parents (12 per cent) have turned to credit cards or loans to pay for essential education items.
Alison Covington AM, Founder and Managing Director of Good360 Australia, emphasised the ongoing financial pressures families face, particularly when it comes to education essentials.
“As the cost of living crisis continues, our research shows parents are making difficult sacrifices to support their children’s learning. Nobody should be forced to choose between essentials for their child’s education and basic family necessities such as food and clothing,” said Ms Covington
The impact of these financial struggles extends beyond the household budget, with 16 per cent of parents reporting that difficulty affording school supplies has caused stress or worry at home. Even more concerning is that 1 in 10 parents (10 per cent) say their child’s participation in education – such as attending activities or completing homework – has been negatively affected. Additionally, 9 per cent of parents note that their child’s wellbeing, including confidence, social interaction, and self-esteem, has suffered.
Good360, a leading charity dedicated to connecting unsold consumer goods with charities and disadvantaged schools, is taking action to address the growing digital divide in Australia.
“Demand for essential digital tools like laptops and reliable internet access is surging as the cost-of-living crisis continues to impact Australian households. Governments and businesses must step up through funding, donations, or partnerships – to ensure families can access the resources they need for their children’s education,” said Ms. Covington.
Since 2023, Good360 has recieved requests for more than 19,000 laptops and digital items to support charities and disadvantaged schools. Demand has significantly increased this financial year, rising 43 per cent compared to last year. Ms Covington praised the support of over 30 product and financial donors contributing to Good360’s Digital Divide program but emphasised the urgent need for additional support and partners to meet the growing demand.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the support Good360 has received so far. In 2024 alone, we connected over $1 million worth of digital devices to communities in need, but we need to double the number of donors to address the growing need in our community. By redirecting surplus devices, we can help bridge the digital divide while also reducing waste. Businesses and retailers have a huge opportunity to support students’ education, bridge education inequality and improve sustainability,” Ms Covington added.
[1] Survey of 500 parents of school aged children conducted by PureProfile in January 2025 on behalf of Good360 Australia
