15 Jan One in six Aussie kids risk missing school basics – and this Back to School Appeal aims to change that
One in six Australian children grow up experiencing disadvantage, putting them at risk of starting school without the essentials they need to learn and thrive.
This summer, the annual Officeworks Back to School Appeal is calling on Australians to help give students a fair start.
Helping students start the school year ready to learn
Officeworks has launched its annual Back to School Appeal in partnership with children’s education charity The Smith Family, with a goal of raising $1 million to support more than 1,400 students experiencing disadvantage across Australia.
Funds raised will support students in The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program, helping cover the cost of school essentials such as uniforms, shoes, stationery, camps and excursions. The program also provides tailored educational and wellbeing support to help students stay engaged with learning and build confidence for the future.
From 29 December 2025, Officeworks customers can donate in-store, online, or by purchasing a box of bounce balls, with all proceeds going directly to the Learning for Life program.
For Melita, a single mum and carer whose daughter Audrina is part of the program, the support made a critical difference during a challenging time.
“When I connected with The Smith Family, I was struggling financially and just making ends meet,” she said. “My number one wish for Audrina is to be happy and follow her passions – and The Smith Family is helping her overcome the barriers our family has faced.”
A small act can make a big difference
Officeworks Managing Director John Gualtieri said access to the right supplies can shape a child’s school experience.
“Having the right support can be the difference between a child feeling left out or walking into the classroom feeling confident and ready to learn,” he said.
Now in its 13th year, the Appeal has raised more than $10.6 million, supporting over 15,800 students nationwide. “By working together, we can help break the cycle of poverty through the power of learning,” Mr Gualtieri said.
The Smith Family CEO Doug Taylor said early educational support has long-term benefits.
“We know that 85 per cent of Learning for Life students are engaged in employment, education or training two and a half years after leaving school,” he said. “That’s why ensuring children start the school year with what they need is so important.”
The Officeworks Back to School Appeal runs from 29 December 2025 to 8 February 2026. Australians can donate in-store, online at Officeworks.com.au, or by purchasing a box of bounce balls to help give every child a fair go at school.
The Learning for Life program provides students with support in three ways:
- Financial assistance for core education-related expenses, including books, digital devices and uniforms.
- A local Smith Family Coordinator who works with the child’s family and school to encourage and support their long-term participation in education.
- Access to a range of Smith Family learning support and mentoring programs, including literacy and numeracy, career and post-school pathways, as well as digital and financial literacy initiatives for parents and carers.
