Every child deserves to learn at their full potential, and nobody should be at a disadvantage before setting foot in the classroom. That’s why State Schools’ Relief provides new uniforms, stationery and learning devices to families across Victoria. 

Andrew Cameron is the new, recently appointed CEO of State Schools’ Relief (SSR).  ‘State Schools Relief makes an amazing contribution to the education sector in Victoria, and I want to continue trying to find new ways to meet the needs of students, families and schools.’

In 2023/24:  

• More than 1,344 schools in Victoria accessed State Schools’ Relief services. 

• More than 260,000 items – from school uniforms, shoes, backpacks, stationery, reading glasses, graphing calculators and public transport passes were provided to students in need. 
  
  Source: State Schools’ Relief Annual Report 2023/24

Cost of living pressures are real and demand for help is on the rise. 

‘There’s no doubt families are struggling. State Schools’ Relief has been growing each year, in both the number of items provided and the depth and diversity of what we can provide.'

‘We’re pleased to be able to step up at a time where families are most in need of support.’  

State Schools’ Relief iPad Program 

Bank First is a founding supporter of one of State Schools’ Relief signature programs – supplying iPads with special software for non-verbal students.  

Access to this technology enables these young people to express themselves – to their teachers, other students, carers and family. The use of the iPad goes way beyond the classroom. It gives these young, non-verbal kids the ability to collaborate and participate in school, family and community activities.  

Our support goes beyond financial 

Four times a year, a group of Bank First volunteers spend the day at the State Schools’ Relief warehouse and lend a hand with the quarterly stocktake.  

We love getting out from behind the desk and doing our little bit to help this very special not-for-profit partner.  

SSR Chief Operations Officer Anshika Spooner said the Bank First volunteer crew really do take the pressure off. 

‘The Bank First team has helped with our stocktake for years. It’s a massive process for us, and having volunteers makes the process faster and more efficient – allowing us to get back to our core work,’ she said. 

Who supports community organisations doing incredible work? Bank First, that’s who.