The NSW Opposition is calling on the Minns Labor Government to restore vital cost of living relief like the Active Kids and Creative Kids vouchers in the upcoming budget.
Member for Myall Lakes, Tanya Thompson said the Premier should put families above politics, especially at a time where people are doing it tough.
“Thousands of families in the Myall Lakes had relied on this meaningful and targeted assistance to enrol their children in sport and other programs, but last year we saw the value of the vouchers slashed,” Mrs Thompson said.
“We want every child to have the opportunity to learn to swim, play footy or take up dancing or music, and we need the Government to make that a priority.”
All NSW families used to receive $300 per child per year in Active Kids and Creative Kids vouchers under the Liberal and Nationals Government, but that was reduced to just $100 per child under Labor.
The Minns Labor Government also only offered the support to those who receive the Family Tax Benefit Part A, which meant the number of eligible families was cut in half from 1.35 million to just 600,000.
“It was extremely disappointing to see the cuts last year, because it meant so many of our local kids missed out on doing the things that all kids should be able to do,” Mrs Thompson said.
“Just last week we’ve seen the South Australian Labor government introduce a very similar program to Active Kids in its budget, so we know it is a good idea that can work everywhere.
“I am calling on the Premier to restore these cost-of-living measures in full force, to help ease the rising pressure on family budgets.”
