The Times Australia
The Times Australia
.

Officeworks' back to school appeal to help thousands of Australian students



As the new school year approaches, Officeworks has launched its 2025 Back to School Appeal, dedicated to raising crucial funds to assist thousands of Australian students in need through The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program. Over the course of a 12-year partnership, the Back to School Appeal has positively impacted the lives of more than 60,000 students facing poverty, raising over $9 million for the program with the generous support of Officeworks customers and team members.

With many Australian families increasingly seeking support to navigate the financial challenges of the school year, Officeworks is urging the community to contribute to this year’s appeal. Donations can be made in-store or online from 27 December to 9 February. Every dollar raised directly supports the Learning for Life program, enabling families impacted by poverty to purchase essential school supplies. The program also offers personal guidance and access to additional educational opportunities, helping students stay motivated, engaged, and connected throughout their learning journey.

13-year-old Brooklyn and her mum Breeanne are one family supported on the Learning for Life program and say The Smith Family has eased financial stress and opened news doors for them through the additional learning programs and personal support.

Brooklyn’s mother, Breeanne shared, “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.”

Brooklyn said, “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’s CEO, Doug Taylor said: “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,” Taylor said.

“Like The Smith Family, Officeworks shares a vision of a world where every child has the chance to create a brighter future for themselves, and break the cycle of poverty, through the power of education.”

Officeworks Managing Director Sarah Hunter said “We believe that every child should have equal access to a quality education, and we’re 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 by donating. To find out more visit www.officeworks.com.au/campaigns/donate.

 

Ageing Australians are waiting too long for home care packages. Here’s why

Federal Aged Care Minister Sam Rae was heavily questioned[1] in parliament yesterday for delaying the releas...

Times Magazine

September Sunset Polo

International Polo Tour To Bridge Historic Sport, Life-Changing Philanthropy, and Breath-Taking Beauty On Saturday, September 6th, history will be made as the International Polo Tour (IPT), a sports leader headquartered here in South Florida...

5 Ways Microsoft Fabric Simplifies Your Data Analytics Workflow

In today's data-driven world, businesses are constantly seeking ways to streamline their data analytics processes. The sheer volume and complexity of data can be overwhelming, often leading to bottlenecks and inefficiencies. Enter the innovative da...

7 Questions to Ask Before You Sign IT Support Companies in Sydney

Choosing an IT partner can feel like buying an insurance policy you hope you never need. The right choice keeps your team productive, your data safe, and your budget predictable. The wrong choice shows up as slow tickets, surprise bills, and risky sh...

Choosing the Right Legal Aid Lawyer in Sutherland Shire: Key Considerations

Legal aid services play an essential role in ensuring access to justice for all. For people in the Sutherland Shire who may not have the financial means to pay for private legal assistance, legal aid ensures that everyone has access to representa...

Watercolor vs. Oil vs. Digital: Which Medium Fits Your Pet's Personality?

When it comes to immortalizing your pet’s unique personality in art, choosing the right medium is essential. Each artistic medium, whether watercolor, oil, or digital, has distinct qualities that can bring out the spirit of your furry friend in dif...

DIY Is In: How Aussie Parents Are Redefining Birthday Parties

When planning his daughter’s birthday, Rich opted for a DIY approach, inspired by her love for drawing maps and giving clues. Their weekend tradition of hiding treats at home sparked the idea, and with a pirate ship playground already chosen as t...

The Times Features

Do you really need a dental check-up and clean every 6 months?

Just over half of Australian adults[1] saw a dental practitioner in the past 12 months, most commonly for a check-up[2]. But have you been told you should get a check-up and c...

What is a Compounding Pharmacy and Why Do You Need One in Melbourne?

Ever picked up a prescription and thought, this pill is too big, too bitter, or full of things I cannot have? That is where a compounding chemist becomes important. A compounding p...

Deep Cleaning vs Regular Cleaning: Which One Do Perth Homes Really Need?

Whether you live in a coastal home in Cottesloe or a modern apartment in East Perth, keeping your living space clean isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s essential for your health and...

Rubber vs Concrete Wheel Stops: Which is Better for Your Car Park?

When it comes to setting up a car park in Perth, wheel stops are a small feature that make a big difference. From improving driver accuracy to preventing costly damage, the right c...

Not all processed foods are bad for you. Here’s what you can tell from reading the label

If you follow wellness content on social media or in the news, you’ve probably heard that processed food is not just unhealthy, but can cause serious harm. Eating a diet domin...

What happens if I eat too much protein?

The hype around protein[1] intake doesn’t seem to be going away. Social media is full of people urging you to eat more protein, including via supplements such as protein sha...