The Treasurer has asked parents to make sure they keep receipts to make the most of the new Education Tax Refund.

Eligible families will be able to claim a 50% refund every year (through their tax return at the end of the financial year) for key education expenses up to :

• $750 for each child undertaking primary studies (maximum refund of $390 per child per year) and
• $1,500 for each child undertaking secondary studies (maximum refund of $799 per child per year).

The Education Tax Refund will apply to some of the most common back - to - school items including :

• laptops, home computers and associated costs
• home internet connections
• printers
• education software
• trade tools for use at school
• school text books and
• stationery

In July, 2010, the Government extended the education expenses offset to include school uniforms. 50% of the cost of uniforms will be claimable in the 2011-2012 financial year.

Expenses that are not eligible for this offset include:

• School fees
• Student attendance at school excursions and camps
• Tutoring costs
• Sporting equipment
• Musical instruments
• Library book fees
• Building and school subject levies
• School photos
• Donations
• Tuckshop expenses
• Transport
• Computer games

Parents entitled to Family Tax Benefit Part A for children in primary or secondary education school for the relevant financial year are eligible for the Education Tax Refund, as well as parents who would eligible but for the fact that the child receives certain payments or allowances such as Youth Allowance, Disability Support Pension and ABSTUDY living allowance.