Following the announcement of The Nationals launching a Fair School Bonus campaign, The Nationals Member for Shepparton District Kim O’Keeffe said that this is an important step in addressing the neglect faced by regional Victorians under Labor.
“My office has been inundated by families feeling discriminated against and disadvantaged by the Allan Labor Government’s inequitable School Saving Bonus. It’s time all were given a fair go,” Ms O’Keeffe said.
The $400 bonus, introduced in the State Budget, is automatically granted to all Victorian government school students but is rigorously restricted for students in low-fee Catholic and independent schools.
“I’ve been contacted by many families who do not qualify for the bonus despite facing financial hardship,” Ms O’Keeffe said.
“Financial situations are unique, and struggling families should not miss out on assistance based solely on their choice of school. Yet so many are being neglected during this cost-of-living crisis.”
Ms O’Keeffe is urging regional Victorians to support the new campaign by signing a parliamentary petition at vic.nationals.org.au/school-saving-bonus/
“If the Allan Labor Government truly wants to support regional Victorians with cost-of-living assistance, they should do it equally,” Ms O’Keeffe said.
“This is blatantly unfair. We must ensure all families get the support they need, regardless of their choice of school.
“Labor can’t manage money, and regional Victorians are paying the price.”