Back to school costs: Families to fork out $14.4 billion
Back-to-school expenses are set to sting family budgets, according to new research by Finder.
Finder crunched the numbers on school costs in 2026 and found that school supplies alone are expected to put a $3.8 billion dent in parents wallets.
A new set of school supplies – complete with textbooks, stationery, a uniform, and electronic devices – will cost parents an average of $712 for primary school children and $1,166 for secondary students.
When other costs – including tuition fees, technology, camps, excursions, sporting and musical equipment and transport costs – are factored in, this jumps to a national spend of $14.4 billion, up from $13.6 billion in 2025.
That's $2,847 for each primary school child and $5,310 for secondary students on average.
Sarah Megginson, personal finance expert at Finder and mother-of-three, said back-to-school expenses are becoming increasingly difficult for parents to absorb.
"Families are already juggling higher grocery spending, expensive mortgages or rent and other bills, and school costs will push some budgets to breaking point.
"For some parents, covering uniforms and stationary and the required technology isn't affordable right now, which puts some kids at risk of going without."
The data shows tuition fees and voluntary school contributions are the largest expense, costing parents on average anywhere between $382 for a public primary school to $13,115 for an independent secondary school, adding up to a national spend of $4.8 billion.
However, tuition fees at some of the most exclusive private schools exceed $50,000 per year.
Megginson urged parents who are feeling the pinch to see what help is available.
"Some schools offer payment plans or have hardship programs in place, which can help you budget for the expenses over time rather than handing over a lump sum."
Megginson said there are some smart ways to save money.
"Think about what you can re-use from previous years and keep in mind, your kids don't always need brand new items to kick off the school year. Things like school bags, pencils and scissors should be able to last a couple school years.
"When looking for a new uniform, check if you can get one second hand. Often schools have a second-hand shop with clothes that are still in great condition at a much cheaper price.
"You can also reach out to your community for second-hand uniforms – kids grow like weeds, so you might be able to take someone else's too-small uniforms off their hands. Facebook community groups can be a handy resource here.
"Budget-friendly brands are an excellent choice for items that can easily be lost, like water bottles and lunch boxes.
"A simple name label on your child's belongings can help them find their way back home if they do get lost – and save you from having to replace them," Megginson said.
Other hidden expenses include camps, on average costing primary students $344 per year and secondary students $489 per year, and transport to and from school, costing $529 and $631 respectively.
Devices like laptops and tablets, while not used in all schools, come at a hefty price too.
Parents can expect to pay $252 per year on devices in primary school, and $309 in secondary school, according to Finder analysis of data from the Futurity Investment Group.
Click here for more information on Finder's back to school costs and statistics.
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