The Albanese Government is investing $203.7 million this year to help young people in every single school across the country through the rollout of the Student Wellbeing Boost. As part of the Boost, every school in Australia will benefit. On average each school will get $20,000 depending on its need and size. The Boost will provide:
- $192 million in additional one-off funding to every school to support their students’ mental health and wellbeing, with schools receiving on average $20,000 for use in the 2023 school year.
- $10.8 million for a new voluntary mental health check tool to enable schools to ensure students get the support they need.
In addition to the Boost, all Australian Education Ministers have signed a new five-year $307.18 million Federation Funding Agreement to deliver the National Student Wellbeing Program.
The Agreement gives schools greater flexibility to decide what’s best to support the wellbeing of their students and communities. Schools across the nation now have the option to choose a qualified Student Wellbeing Officer or Chaplain to promote student wellbeing. The Boost and National Student Wellbeing Program Agreement represent a half a billion-dollar investment into improving the wellbeing of Australia’s students. States and Territories will continue to manage the National Student Wellbeing Program, which includes approving applications to engage Student Wellbeing Officers or Chaplains.
Student Wellbeing Officers and Chaplains will focus on supporting students and the broader school community through delivering pastoral care services and other support services such as breakfast clubs, excursions, volunteering activities and parent/carer workshops. In consultation with the school community and educators, they will help promote safe and inclusive school communities, where all people are respected. They must respect and accept a student’s views, values and beliefs.
Participation in the program remains voluntary for schools and students.