TasPorts Extends Daily School Lunch Support in East Devonport for Seven More Years

TasPorts has today confirmed it will continue funding one day of the East Devonport Primary School lunch program for the next seven years, ensuring students will continue to receive a free, hot lunch through to 2031.

The school lunch program is a collaboration between the Department for Education, Children and Young People, School Food Matters, Loaves and Fishes Tasmania, TasPorts, and East Devonport Primary School. Each partner contributes to providing more than 220 students with a healthy meal each day, five days a week.

TasPorts CEO Anthony Donald said the long-term support reflects TasPorts’ commitment to the communities in which it operates. 

“Since moving to daily lunches last year, East Devonport Primary School’s attendance has lifted to above the state average. That’s a clear sign this program is helping kids turn up, participate and thrive.

“For TasPorts, this is about being a regional partner and investing in the people and places that make Tasmania stronger,” Mr Donald said.

East Devonport Primary School’s Acting Principal, Eve Marcus, said the program had become a cornerstone of the school community. 

“Daily lunches are about more than nutrition, they build consistency, inclusion and care into every school day,” Mr Jago said.

“It’s had a measurable impact on attendance and engagement, and we are so proud to partner with TasPorts and others to deliver something with such lasting benefit for our students and families.”

Devonport City Mayor Alison Jarman welcomed TasPorts’ seven-year extension and praised the long-term nature of the commitment.

“This is how you build strong communities - through steady, local partnerships that back in our kids and give them every chance to thrive,” she said.

“A long-term commitment that supports families, improves attendance, and helps build a better future for East Devonport’s next generation. It’s an investment in social infrastructure, and the benefits will be felt well beyond the school gate.”

TasPorts’ renewed support means a child starting Kindergarten this year will receive school lunches through their entire primary education.