As the new school year draws near, Officeworks has launched its 2025 Back to School Appeal, aiming to 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 over 60,000 students impacted by poverty and raised more than $9 million for The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program, thanks to the generosity of Officeworks customers and team members.
Helping Families Under Financial Pressure
Australian families are increasingly seeking support to navigate the financial pressures of the upcoming school year. Officeworks is calling on the community to help support students in need by donating to this year’s Appeal in-store or online from 27 December until 9 February.
All funds raised go directly to the Learning for Life program, empowering families affected by poverty to afford their child’s essential school supplies. The program also provides personal support and access to additional educational initiatives, keeping students motivated, engaged, and connected to their learning journey.
A Family’s Story: Brooklyn and Breeanne
Thirteen-year-old Brooklyn and her mum Breeanne are one family supported through the Learning for Life program. They shared how The Smith Family has eased their financial stress and opened new opportunities:
“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.” – Breeanne
Brooklyn also expressed how the program has supported her:
“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, highlighted the long-standing impact of the partnership.
“Our enduring partnership with Officeworks and the Back to School Appeal has created opportunities for thousands of young people experiencing disadvantage,” Taylor said.
“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’ Commitment to Education
Officeworks Managing Director Sarah Hunter reaffirmed the company’s dedication to supporting Australian students.
“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,” Hunter said.
“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.”
How to Donate
Support the 2025 Back to School Appeal by donating:
- In-store at any Officeworks location
- Online at Officeworks website
Dates: 27 December 2024 – 9 February 2025
All donations go directly to The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program.