Jo Palmer with students from Riverside Primary School, Launceston. Photo: Facebook.
Work is underway to double the Tasmanian School Lunch Program from 30 to 60 schools by 2026, to support students’ wellbeing and learning.
Minister for Education Jo Palmer said supporting the wellbeing of young people and enhancing their engagement in learning through access to nutritious food was a key priority for the Tasmanian Government.
“Schools involved in the pilot program reported students were calmer and that there was an increase in attendance, particularly among those who were often absent from school,” Minister Palmer said.
“We want to build on this success, which is why the Tasmanian Liberal Government has committed $14.6 million to transition from a pilot to an ongoing program.
“As part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, this will see the School Lunch Program expanded to include an additional 30 primary schools, ensuring more students benefit from healthy and nutritious cooked school lunches.
“In collaboration with non-profit partners, School Food Matters and Loaves & Fishes Tasmania, 15 schools will be added to the program in 2025 and another 15 in 2026.”
In third term, Tasmanian Government primary schools will be invited to express their interest in joining the expanded lunch program.
Ms Palmer said it was wonderful to visit Montello Primary and see its school lunch program in full swing.
“Montello has already seen positive outcomes thanks to this important program,” she said.
All schools currently involved in the program will have the opportunity to continue their participation in the 2025-2026 period.
