General News
30 January, 2026
$100 cash bonus for students
THOUSANDS of Far North students are getting $100 each to help going back to school easier on their families’ pockets.
The Queensland Government is handing out $485,800 in Barron River, $610,000 in Mulgrave, $444,000 in Cook, almost $500,000 in Cairns and more than $550,000 in Hill.
Every primary school-aged child across Queensland’s state, Catholic and independent schools will receive a $100 credit to help ease costs for families.
Parents can choose to use it on the cost of items or activities offered by the school, such as camps, excursions, incursions and extracurricular activities, stationery, uniforms or excellence programs.
For state school students, a $100 credit will be applied to the student’s school account. The non-state school sector will be responsible for administration of the $100, including how it can be applied to reduce fees or other related school costs.
The 'Back to School Boost' is provided once per year. All students in primary school (prep-year 6) are eligible, including children who attend a special school or children enrolled in home education.
Minister for Education John-Paul Langbroek said 895,000 students would be attending schools across the state this year.
“It’s wonderful to see the excitement and energy as students return to classrooms across our state,” he said.
“2026 promises to be a big year of learning and I look forward to visiting schools to see the excellent teaching that is happening in our classrooms.”
Mr Langbroek said the government was delivering a record $21.9 billion education budget.
Member for Barron River Bree James said the funding would provide much needed relief for families.
“The Back to School Boost is helping families get kids into school, ready to learn and grow in 2026,” she said.
“All children deserve the same access to education and this funding provides genuine cost-of-living relief for Queenslanders.”
Member for Mulgrave Terry James said the government was ensuring students had the support they needed to thrive.
“This funding injection helps to ensure all young students have the supplies they need to hit the ground running in 2026,” he said.
“Making sure students are equipped for the school year is the first step to improving learning and lifting results.”
