No school fees, free uniforms for fire-hit families

Recognising the needs of the community at this tough time, the government package for directly affected families also includes:

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Acting Education Minister Michelle Lensink said the state government was committed to doing everything it could to help SA's families.

"As we start the new school year next week, the Marshall government is doing everything possible to alleviate stress for families with children going back to school," Ms Lensink said.

"Waiving school fees for the 2020 school year and providing school uniforms free of charge for families affected by recent bushfires is practical relief we're providing families, and will go some way in helping them in their hour of need."

In addition to this relief, about 250 Adelaide Hills children who have been affected by the bushfires are being gifted free backpacks full of supplies ready for their return to school and preschool - an initiative called Backpacks for Bushfires.

"Many families in the Adelaide Hills and on KI have lost everything in the recent bushfires and with school going back next week, these backpacks will mean children have what they need to start the school year," Ms Lensink said.

Donated backpacks have been filled with stationery, books, a lunchbox and drink bottle.

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The Department of Human Services has also set up free childcare at Lobethal Lutheran School to assist parents who have been affected by the bushfires, or need respite.

Lobethal's David Hartas, his wife Jessica and their three young children lost everything except their house on their 2.4ha property in the Cudlee Creek bushfire.

"The childcare centre has helped the community to come together - by allowing people not directly affected by the fires to also have their children looked after, means they can then help out neighbours, friends and family," Mr Hartas said.