Education expenses

If cancer has caused you financial hardship, you may be able to come to some arrangement regarding school fees or it may be possible to delay (defer) repayment of your education (HECS–HELP) debt. Special grants can help young people to continue their education.

Negotiate school fees

Fees are not compulsory in public schools, but it’s a good idea to contact the school to discuss payment of voluntary contributions. Many private and independent schools are willing to make arrangements for parents experiencing unexpected hardship who cannot pay school fees in the short term. Ask for written confirmation of any changes you negotiate.

Once you become aware that your financial situation has changed, get in touch with the school principal straightaway to discuss your options. 

These may include:

• investigating scholarships or bursaries that cover school fees and other expenses
• negotiating a payment plan
• requesting a temporary suspension of your fees.

Apply for an education grant

Young people affected by cancer may be able to apply for special grants to help them pay for education and training. Here are some organisations that provide grants:

• Redkite provides grants to young people aged up to 18
• Ronald McDonald House Charities offers the Charlie Bell Scholarship program each year to people aged 15–20
• Young Carers Network, part of Carers Australia, provides the Young Carer Bursary Program for carers aged 12–25.

Defer HECS–HELP debts

You may have a HECS–HELP debt under the Higher Education Contribution Scheme (HECS) or the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP). If you are having trouble repaying the debt, you can apply to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) to defer or reduce your repayments.

You will need to show that making the repayments would cause serious hardship (e.g. would leave you unable to provide food, accommodation, clothing, medical treatment or other necessities for you or your family) or that there are other special reasons such as having a serious illness.

The ATO may also ask you to provide details of your income and expenses as well as a copy of your most recent pay slip. If your application is successful, you will not need to make any repayments until the next financial year. If you want to defer your repayments for another year, you will need to reapply. There are time limits that apply. To defer your HECS–HELP repayments, download and complete an application form. Call 1300 650 225.