Since the inception of the Tasmanian School Lunch Program in 2022, Tasmania’s commitment to enhancing student health and educational outcomes has seen remarkable success. Championed by Churchill Fellow Julie Dunbabin and inspired by her 2018 Fellowship, Tasmania has piloted an initiative that is now set to expand significantly.
Funded by the Tasmanian Government, the School Lunch Program is driven by a collaboration between Julie’s NGO School Food Matters and NFP Loaves and Fishes Tasmania. The program was first piloted in 15 government schools across the state, expanding to 30 the following year and set to expand to 60 schools by 2026. The program aims to provide nutritious, locally sourced meals to students, not only promoting healthy eating habits but also addressing food security issues among school-aged children. The program encourages social interaction and underpins the importance of regular, balanced meals, aligning closely with educational capabilities and overall student wellbeing.
Julie’s Fellowship took her to Europe, the UK and the USA where she studied global best practice in school lunch programs. Her Fellowship report emphasises the many benefits of established school lunch programs: “The scientifically proven outcomes of well-balanced school meals were linked to improved concentration in class, improved academic outcome and fewer sick days, as well as addressing food insecurity, supporting student health and wellbeing and reducing obesity and overweight rates.” said Julie.
An evaluation conducted by the Menzies Institute for Medical Research has underscored the positive impact of the program on participating students. With support from School Food Matters, and backed by the Tasmanian Community Fund, a compelling business case has been published advocating for the expansion of the School Lunch Program statewide.
In a significant development, during the 2024 State election, the Tasmanian Government has secured $14.6 million to continue and expand the School Lunch Program. By 2026, the initiative is slated to encompass 60 schools, ensuring more Tasmanian children benefit from regular access to nutritious and tasty meals throughout the school week.
Currently, the program serves 4,100 children each week, with some schools offering lunches up to five days per week. Over the course of the program, more than 350,000 meals have been provided, highlighting its critical role in supporting the nutritional needs of Tasmanian students.
“The Trust is so pleased to see the success of the School Lunch Program and how it reflects Churchill Fellow Julie’s commitment to nurturing the health and wellbeing of our youngest Tasmanians. This initiative not only supports learning but also fosters a positive school environment where every child has the opportunity to thrive.” said Dr Rachael Coghlan, CEO of the Winston Churchill Trust.
The expansion of the School Lunch Program signifies Tasmania’s leadership in educational nutrition programs nationally, setting a benchmark for other states to emulate.
Read Julie’s Churchill Fellowship report here.