The rising cost of living in Australia has placed significant pressure on many families, prompting the New South Wales (NSW) government to introduce programs aimed at easing some of these financial challenges. One such initiative is the Active and Creative Kids vouchers, which provide financial assistance to eligible families. As the application deadline approaches, it’s important for parents, guardians, and carers to act quickly to take advantage of this valuable support.
The program offers a $50 voucher, available twice a year, which can be used to help cover the cost of children’s participation in a wide range of sports, creative, and cultural activities. This assistance helps reduce the financial burden on families, enabling children to engage in activities that promote physical, creative, and social development.
$1,100 Financial Relief for Centrelink Recipients
In addition to the Active and Creative Kids vouchers, Centrelink recipients are eligible for additional financial support through the $1,100 Cost of Living Payment, offering financial relief to families already receiving government benefits.
For 2024, approximately 600,000 children in NSW are eligible for these vouchers, totaling an annual budget of $28 million. However, this year the program has been means-tested, and the vouchers are now exclusively available to families receiving the Family Tax Benefit. This adjustment ensures that the program focuses on supporting families who need it most, providing their children with opportunities to take part in extracurricular activities regardless of financial constraints.
Voucher Details, Dates, and Eligibility
To help families make the most of this program, it’s essential to be aware of the key dates, eligibility requirements, and how the vouchers can be used.
- Voucher 1
Available since Term 1, 2024.
Must be applied for and used by December 31, 2024.
If you haven’t used Voucher 1 yet, there’s still time to apply for Voucher 2 and combine both to enjoy a total of $100 in support. - Voucher 2
Available since Term 3, 2024.
Must be used by July 14, 2025.
Families can apply for both vouchers simultaneously and use them together to receive a combined value of $100 by the end of the year.
How to Claim the $100 Active and Creative Kids Voucher
The process of claiming the voucher is simple, provided families meet the eligibility criteria. Follow these steps to claim your voucher:
- Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements, such as receiving the Family Tax Benefit (Part A or B) and being a resident of NSW.
- Create an account on the Service NSW website if you haven’t already. This will allow you to apply for the voucher online.
- Log in to your Service NSW account.
- Navigate to the Active and Creative Kids Voucher section on the website.
- Complete the online form with your details and your child’s information, including their age and the eligible activities they wish to participate in.
- Upload necessary documents, such as your Centrelink CRN, Medicare card, and identity documents for both yourself and your child.
- Double-check all information to ensure accuracy before submitting your application.
- Once submitted, your application will be reviewed. You’ll receive a confirmation once the voucher has been approved and issued.
- After receiving the voucher, use it with any registered activity provider for eligible activities.
Where Can the Voucher Be Used?
The Active and Creative Kids vouchers are not universally redeemable; they can only be used with registered activity providers. These providers offer a range of activities aimed at developing children’s physical, creative, and educational skills. Eligible activities include:
- Sports: Soccer, basketball, tennis, gymnastics, netball, yoga, martial arts, and more.
- Creative Arts: Dance, music, drama, visual arts, choreography, circus arts, creative writing, and coding.
- Cultural Engagement: Language classes, singing, and other cultural activities.
It’s important to note that the voucher must be used in full at one registered provider; it cannot be split between multiple providers.
Centrelink Pension Increase
In 2024, Centrelink recipients, particularly seniors and low-income families, are receiving additional support with the Centrelink Pension Increase. This payment, alongside other forms of assistance, adds to the relief available to families facing financial pressure.
A Boost for Low-Income Families
With $28 million allocated each year to this program, the NSW government is taking significant steps to support families, particularly those on lower incomes. If you meet the eligibility criteria, this is a wonderful opportunity to enhance your child’s extracurricular activities, helping them explore new interests, improve skills, and lead a more active, well-rounded life.
Don’t miss out on this valuable support—apply for the Active and Creative Kids vouchers before the deadline. The program offers essential assistance to help children participate in activities that foster personal growth and development.
