The Federal Government has allocated $17.4 million to help rural families, whose children attend schools in drought-affected areas, with education expenses.
More than 40 regions are eligible for Exceptional Circumstances drought assistance, covering around one-third of Australia’s agricultural land.
The funding will go to approximately 2310 primary and secondary schools in those regions.
Schools may use the funding for items such as text books, uniforms, subject levies, excursions and school camps, or to provide other support which is directly related to schooling.
The funding is flexible which means it can be used to subsidise activities for a whole class or school. Principals can also direct support to families most in need.
Government schools have received $13,158,730 and non-government schools have received $4,264,740.
Under the program eligible schools may receive up to $10,000.
This consists of a base entitlement of $1000 per school plus a per capita allowance on $100 for every enrolled full-time-equivalent student recorded in the 2008 school census.
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