From 2026, parents in government schools can strike some expensive branded uniform items from their back-to-school shopping lists.
In April, the Victorian Government announced a major change to student dress policy: no more unnecessary school uniform logos.
Government schools will be required to offer non-branded options for pants, shorts, skirts, and socks, ensuring more affordable uniform choices for families.
However, schools will be able to continue to have branding on hats, tops, shirts, dresses and jackets as it is a source of school pride for many.
A comprehensive study involving parent feedback revealed that branded, customised uniform items typically cost $56 more than generic alternatives available in stores.
When the Free Press spoke to parent, Nadia Wiltshire, at the beginning of the 2025 school year, she said she was “shocked” at how expensive uniforms can be for parents.
“It was a big strain … just getting the school uniform together because they needed something for summer, something for winter, then sport — it was a big killer,” she said.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said this was just “one less thing” for parents to worry about when it came with getting their kids to school.
“Government school uniforms should be worn with pride, but we need to make sure they’re affordable for families,” she said.
Eligible Victorian families can access additional financial support through the School Saving Bonus, offering $400 per student from Prep to Year 12 for various education-related expenses beyond basic enrolment costs.
“We understand how school costs can add up, and the cost of living is rising — that’s why we’re moving ahead with a plan to minimise the amount families have to spend on uniforms each year,” Victorian Education Minister Ben Carroll said
“Every student deserves access to a great education, and that’s why we’re ensuring all students can continue to fully participate in schooling, despite the cost-of-living pressures that we know many families are experiencing.”
