Kids can’t learn on an empty stomach. That’s why the ACT Government has launched the Meals in Schools pilot in ACT public schools. Every child deserves a great education, and the research shows that access to nutritious food at school benefits children and young people’s education and wellbeing.
Participating schools are:
- Narrabundah Early Childhood School
- Richardson Primary School
- Gilmore Primary School
- Gold Creek School – Senior Campus (years 7 to 10)
- Melba Copland Secondary School – College Campus (years 10 to 12)
Students at these five schools will receive access to free breakfast and lunch three days per week throughout the school year. The pilot will run until July 2025.
“Research tells us that students learn better and are happier at school when their bellies are full. That’s why we committed to free breakfasts and lunches in five public schools,” Minister for Education Yvette Berry commented “A free feed will also take the pressure off families who are doing it tough.It will reduce grocery bills and make it easier for busy parents to get everyone out the door in the mornings.”
The Meals in Schools pilot is one of many wellbeing and cost of living supports available to students and their families in ACT public schools, including the Future of Education Equity Fund, free Chromebooks for secondary students, free access to internet at home for families who need it and free period products in schools.
These initiatives are in addition to the resourcing all ACT public schools receive to help students access everyday essentials, to ensure access to education is equitable for all students, regardless of personal circumstances. In the 2024-25 Budget, the ACT Government committed nearly $4 million towards piloting Meals in Schools at five ACT public schools.