School bonuses go into family accounts

THE first payment of the Schoolkids Bonus has started arriving into the bank accounts of 1.3 million families.

The Schoolkids Bonus helps parents buy uniforms, shoes, school books and stationery, as well as covering other costs, including excursions, music lessons and sports registration fees.

Each year eligible families will receive up to $410 for each child in primary school and up to $820 a year for each high school student. The bonus is paid in two instalments - in January and July.