The rising cost of living in Australia has become a growing concern for many families.
To alleviate some of the financial burden, the state government of New South Wales (NSW) has introduced the Active and Creative Kids vouchers.
With only a few weeks remaining for applications, this financial assistance is a crucial opportunity for parents, guardians, and carers to claim support.
The program offers a $50 voucher, available twice a year, to help cover the cost of children’s participation in sports, creative, and cultural activities.
This support can significantly ease the financial strain, providing children with the opportunity to engage in enriching experiences.
$1,100 Financial Relief for Centrelink Recipients
In 2024, Centrelink recipients can benefit from a $1,100 Cost of Living Payment designed to offer financial relief.
Approximately 600,000 children in NSW are eligible for the Active and Creative Kids vouchers, with a total annual funding of $28 million.
However, this year, the vouchers are means-tested, meaning they are now only available to families receiving the Family Tax Benefit.
The goal is to provide support to those most in need, ensuring children can access extracurricular activities regardless of financial constraints.
$100 Cash Boost Details, Dates and Eligibility
To make the most of the available support, it’s important for families to understand key dates, eligibility criteria, and how the vouchers can be utilized.
Voucher 1
- Available since Term 1, 2024
- Must be applied for and used by December 31, 2024
- If not yet used, families can still apply for Voucher 2 and combine both vouchers for a total of $100.
Voucher 2
- Available since Term 3, 2024
- Must be used by July 14, 2025
- Families can apply for both vouchers simultaneously to use them together before the end of the year.
How to Claim the $100 Active and Creative Kids Voucher
Claiming the voucher is a straightforward process.
Families must meet the eligibility requirements and follow these steps:
- Ensure eligibility by receiving Family Tax Benefit (Part A or B) and being a resident of NSW.
- If you don’t have one, create an account on the Service NSW Website to apply online.
- Log in to your account on the Service NSW website.
- Locate the Active and Creative Kids Voucher section.
- Complete the online form with personal and child details, including age and eligible activities.
- Upload necessary documents such as Centrelink CRN, Medicare card details, and identity documents for both parent/guardian and child.
- Double-check all provided information to ensure accuracy.
- Submit your application for approval.
- Once approved, the voucher will be issued, and you can use it at registered activity providers.
Where Can the Voucher Be Used?
The Active and Creative Kids vouchers can only be redeemed at registered activity providers offering eligible activities. These include:
- Sports: Soccer, basketball, rugby, tennis, gymnastics, netball, yoga, and martial arts.
- Creative Arts: Dance, music, drama, visual arts, choreography, circus arts, creative writing, and coding.
- Cultural Engagement: Language classes, singing, and other cultural activities.
Note that the voucher cannot be split across multiple providers; the full amount must be used with a single provider for one eligible activity.
Conclusion
As the deadline for Voucher 1 approaches, families should act quickly to secure their $50 Active and Creative Kids voucher.
With an annual funding allocation of $28 million, this program provides substantial support to eligible families, helping children access a broad range of extracurricular activities.
These activities can contribute to their physical, mental, and creative development, enhancing their quality of life.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, don’t miss out on this opportunity to enrich your child’s experiences and give them the chance to discover new interests and skills.
