Sarah McMillan/cvnznews.com
ACT is claiming a political win after Labour backed a proposal aimed at reducing the cost of school uniforms for Kiwi families.
The party says its plan would limit state schools to three compulsory branded uniform items, allowing parents to purchase everyday clothing such as shorts, trousers, skirts and socks from mainstream retailers instead of being forced to buy higher-priced branded alternatives.
ACT Education spokesperson Laura McClure said the issue has become a significant cost burden for many families, particularly during a period of ongoing financial pressure.
“Last year, 38,000 WINZ hardship loans worth $11 million were issued to help families buy school uniforms,” McClure said.
“It’s ridiculous that parents are having to go into debt to buy basic clothing for their children.”
The policy was first announced by ACT in June, and the party now says Labour’s support demonstrates growing political consensus around the need for reform.
Under the proposal, schools would continue to be able to require a limited number of branded items, while families would have greater freedom to purchase standard uniform components from retailers such as The Warehouse, Kmart and other clothing outlets.
ACT argues the change would introduce more competition, reduce costs and give parents greater choice.
McClure said Labour’s backing showed that reducing costs for families does not always require additional government spending.
“It’s encouraging to see Labour recognise that the answer to the cost of living isn’t always more Government spending. Sometimes it’s as simple as removing unnecessary restrictions and allowing competition to do its job,” she said.
The debate comes as the cost of living remains a major election issue, with families facing continued pressure from housing, food, transport and education-related expenses.
School uniforms have long been criticised by some parents for their cost, particularly where schools require multiple branded items available only through specific suppliers.
ACT is now calling on all political parties to support a uniform policy that it says would save families money while maintaining school identity and standards.
