Needy students to receive support to buy textbooks

Needy students will receive greater financial support to buy textbooks and other stationery. The Student Financial Assistance Agency announced yesterday a 27 per cent increase in assistance for primary school students and 14 per cent increase for those in secondary schools.

The full rate for a primary student is $1,029 and the rate for a junior secondary student is $1,683. Parents can apply through their children's schools at the beginning of the school year, but applicants must pass a means test.