Work has begun on a universal school breakfast program that will see every Tasmanian Government school offer free meals to students. The $6.5 million initiative is being rolled out through a partnership between the State Government and Variety Tasmania, aiming to ensure that no child starts the day hungry.
Education Minister Jo Palmer announced the program at Riverside High School, highlighting the link between nutrition and learning. “Students learn better when they have a full tummy, and we know there is a clear link between nutrition and learning outcomes,” she said.
She pointed out that many children arrive at school without breakfast due to cost of living pressures, rushed mornings, or long travel times. “Hungry students are more likely to disengage from learning and teachers tell us this can equate to a loss of up to 2 hours a day in learning time,” Ms Palmer said.
The Minister said the new scheme would ensure all children had access to a consistent and nutritious breakfast. “We want to ensure all student are starting each school day with a nutritious breakfast which is why this partnership with Variety Tasmania is so important,” she said. “School breakfast programs lead to better attendance, stronger concentration and positive educational outcomes, and I’m really excited to support our students with the Variety model.”
The Variety model, already in place in 40 schools, uses a streamlined ‘click and deliver’ platform to make it easier for schools to provide meals without adding to staff and volunteer workloads. Schools with existing breakfast programs run through local communities will be able to continue them or opt into the new Variety Breakfast Club.
Once fully rolled out, the program will cover every Government school in the state, reaching up to 50,000 students.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
