More than $2 million has been ripped out of the local economy thanks to the Minns Labor Government’s decision to slash the former government’s Back to School Vouchers.

The vouchers, which were hugely popular in the Tamworth electorate, gave parents three $50 vouchers per child to help with the cost of school supplies, uniforms, and technology.

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said 40420 vouchers were used in our region last year, equalling more than $2 million in value.

“The cost of going back to school can be significant for local families, particularly at a time when the cost of living remains so high,” Mr Anderson said.

“Between the cost of books, uniforms, stationery, and a new pair of shoes, families can expect to pay hundreds of dollars to get their kids ready for the return of the school year.

“The former government’s Back to School vouchers were a much needed helping hand for our families, providing $150 per child towards the cost of essential school items.

“The Labor Government has now cut the vouchers, with no plans to replace them with any meaningful cost of living measures, meaning our families will be forced to pay more at the start of Term 1.

“This cut is on top of the Labor government’s decision to cut Active Kids, Creative Kids, First Lap Vouchers, and the Regional Seniors Travel Card.

“The Labor government is continuing to cut back on cost-of-living measures at a time when families in our region can least afford it.

“We need the Labor government to urgently reconsider this decision so that parents can begin buying school supplies without having to make cuts elsewhere in the household budget.”