List what each child needs, divide by the pays until term starts, and move the amount aside each payday.
Written by Alex BPublished 13 November 2026
Money Detective is built around practical household money tools for Australians.
Back to school costs arrive together in December and January, so the fix is to spread them across the year. List what each child needs, add it up, and divide by the number of pays until term starts. In the example below, a combined $1,850 saved over 26 fortnights is $71.15 a fortnight. Start later and the amount rises: $92.50 a fortnight with 20 pays to go.
The prices are invented to show the method. Your school's booklist, uniform list and fee notice give the real numbers.
Rules differ by state and by school, so check yours. In Queensland state schools, for example, the Department of Education says schools may request voluntary financial contributions but not require them. The Student Resource Scheme is also voluntary, and some states offer help with textbook costs, such as Queensland's Textbook and Resource Allowance for secondary students. Your school office or state education department can tell you what applies.
A family has one primary child and one high school child.
| Item | Primary child | High school child |
|---|---|---|
| Uniform and shoes | $220 | $320 |
| Bag, lunchbox and drink bottle | $60 | $90 |
| Stationery and booklist | $90 | $150 |
| Resource scheme or book hire | $90 | $170 |
| Device or tech | $0 | $300 |
| Voluntary contribution | $50 | $100 |
| Excursions and camps | $60 | $150 |
| Total | $570 | $1,280 |
Saved over 26 fortnights, $1,850 is $71.15 a fortnight, or $35.58 a week. With 20 fortnights to go it is $92.50. The high school child's device is the largest single item, so it is the one to plan first, or to look at second-hand or school-supplied options for.
Fortnightly Budget Plus has a Savings Goals tab. Type "Back to school", the target amount, the date you need it by and what you have already saved, and it shows how much to set aside each fortnight and each week. Goals are kept separate from your budget vs actual. It is an Excel workbook and nothing connects to your bank.
The Free Fortnightly Budget also has a savings amount for each pay. For the method behind all of this, see the sinking funds guide, and for a similar yearly cost, the Christmas budget guide.
As early as you can. Each month you wait, the fortnightly amount rises, as the example shows.
For Queensland state schools, the Department of Education says contributions are requested, not required. Check the rules for your state and school.
This article provides general information only. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs, and it is not financial advice. Examples use invented figures. Money Detective's tools provide estimates and planning information. Consider your own circumstances, and seek independent advice if you need it, before making financial decisions.