As the new school year draws closer, Officeworks has launched its 2025 Back to School Appeal, to help raise vital funds to support thousands of Australian students in need through The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program. Over the 12-year partnership, the Appeal has transformed the lives of more than 60,000 students impacted by poverty and raised more than $9 million for Learning for Life program, thanks to the generosity of the retailer’s customers and team members.
With Australian families increasingly seeking support to navigate the financial pressures of heading back to school, Officeworks is calling on the community to help support needy students by donating to this latest appeal in-store or online until 9 February. All funds raised go directly to the program that helps empower families affected by poverty to afford their children’s essential school supplies. Learning for Life also provides personal support and access to additional educational initiatives, keeping students motivated, engaged and connected to their learning journey.
Inclusive access to educational opportunities
13-year-old Brooklyn and her mum Breeanne are one family supported by the Learning for Life program and say The Smith Family has eased financial stress and opened new doors for them through the additional learning programs and personal support.
“Before we started receiving The Smith Family funding, life was tough. I was trying to work out what was more important. Do I put petrol in the car, or do I get food? It’s really hard to prioritise – everything’s important when you’ve got little kids,” says Brooklyn’s mother, Breeanne.
For Brooklyn, the support has made a positive difference.
“My first year at high school has been really good. One of the things I’m most proud of myself for is I’m a good learner and I love learning. Having the things that I need to be able to learn is important for my future.”
“I think The Smith Family has taken a lot of stress off my mum and stepdad. It helps us get school uniforms and school shoes, which really helps, and it helps us pay for camp and excursions. I’m going to camp soon, and if I didn’t get to go, I think I would feel really left out.”
The Smith Family CEO Doug Taylor says, “our enduring partnership with Officeworks and the Back to School Appeal has created opportunities for thousands of young people experiencing disadvantage”.
“Our focus is on helping students to make the most of their education, by providing them with the essentials they need to start the school year, and tailored learning and mentoring support so they can keep up with their peers and stay engaged with their education.”
An appeal with impact
Officeworks Managing Director Sarah Hunter says she believes that every child should have equal access to a quality education, adding that Officeworks is “committed to promoting strong educational outcomes for all Australian students”.
“We’re proud of how Officeworks’ long-term partnership with The Smith Family helps us to make a real impact in students’ lives, helping to close the literacy, numeracy and social connection divide for so many young people in Australia.”
The community can donate to the Back to School Appeal in all Officeworks stores or online and help raise vital funds to support children overcome educational inequality caused by poverty.
