The Government rebates worth $200 for NSW parents

Going back to school is an expensive time for families, with books, shoes, stationary, bags and uniforms to pay for, not to mention all the extra-curricular activities.

But there’s good news for families living in NSW, with the Government offering two vouchers to parents of school-aged children that can be used at any time during the year.

The first, the Active Kids voucher, is worth $100 and can be used for sports and fitness costs. The voucher can be applied for online and is for children aged between 4.5 and 18, who are currently enrolled in a NSW school or are home-schooled. All families who currently hold Medicare cards are eligible and the voucher is not means-tested. Find out more here.

The second voucher, which was announced in last year’s budget, is the Creative Kids voucher, also worth $100, and is applicable for a range of activities including music, drama, art, coding and language classes. Again, this rebate is not means tested and is for all children aged 4.5 to 18 who are enrolled in NSW primary or secondary schools, or are home-schooled, and whose families hold a Medicare card. To apply, visit here.

“We don't just want to have the most active kids, we want to have the most creative kids in the world," NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said after last year’s Budget was announced.

“Last year, we launched Active Kids – a $100 voucher for every school aged child to participate in sport."

The Creative Kids voucher aims to help families with their budgeting for the school year, and to take the strain off parents who wish to enrol their child in extra-curricular activities.

“A $100 voucher for every school child – to participate in extra-curricular activities – like music, drama, art, coding, and second language classes,” Mr Perrottet said.

“We want to open up a world of opportunity for our kids. Giving more parents – and more children – the encouragement they need to reach their potential,” he added.

For more information and to apply online visit the Active Kids information page and the Creative Kids information page.